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Granny Flat Agreements & Life Interests: Ensuring Security and Legal Protection
A Granny Flat Agreement is a legal contract that governs the terms under which a person, such as a parent, can continue to live in a property. This can be secured by way of a life interest, registered on title.
Andrews Crosthwaite
6 days ago3 min read


Understanding Probate Caveats: Key Insights and Legal Considerations
Probate caveats are an essential tool in estate administration, allowing individuals to challenge the grant of probate or administration when disputes arise.
Andrews Crosthwaite
Nov 26, 20254 min read


Early Release of Deposits in Victorian Property Transactions
Navigating the complexities of property transactions in Victoria can be challenging, especially when it comes to the early release of deposits. While vendors may be eager to access funds before settlement, the process is governed by strict statutory requirements under Section 27 of the Sale of Land Act 1962 (Vic). Recent court decisions, including the case of GLP Batesford Holdings Pty Ltd v 68 Bridge Road Land Pty Ltd, have highlighted the risks of attempting to bypass these
Andrews Crosthwaite
Nov 8, 20254 min read


Understanding the Difference Between Rescission and Repudiation in Contract Law
When disputes arise in contractual matters, particularly in sales transactions, it is essential to understand the distinction between rescission and repudiation. ile both terms relate to the termination of a contract, they differ significantly in their legal implications and the circumstances under which they apply.
Andrews Crosthwaite
Oct 23, 20253 min read


The Expanded First Home Guarantee Scheme
The Australian Government has implemented reforms to the First Home Guarantee Scheme, effective from 1 October 2025. These changes are designed to address the growing challenges of housing affordability and accessibility, providing first-time buyers with enhanced opportunities to enter the property market, according to the current Government.
Andrews Crosthwaite
Oct 6, 20252 min read


Recent Changes in Rental Legislation in Victoria
Victoria has recently introduced significant reforms to its rental laws, aimed at creating a fairer and more secure environment for renters. These changes were passed by Parliament in March 2025, with a large majority of the changes taking effect from November 2025.
Andrews Crosthwaite
Sep 9, 20254 min read


Understanding Jurisdiction in Owners Corporation Disputes: Recent Decisions Explained
Owners Corporations (OCs) play a vital role in managing shared property and ensuring smooth operations within subdivisions. However,...
Andrews Crosthwaite
Aug 30, 20253 min read


Key Differences between Protective Trusts and Special Disability Trusts
Protective Trusts Protective Trusts are designed to safeguard assets for vulnerable individuals while providing flexibility in management...
Andrews Crosthwaite
Jul 20, 20255 min read


Due diligence – services and drainage at your property
When purchasing a property, it is important to keep in mind the issues of service connections and drainage. Below are some tips to consider when undertaking your due diligence.
Andrews Crosthwaite
Apr 12, 20252 min read


Need probate but can’t wait for a full grant? You may need a limited grant of representation.
An ACB Grant is basically a ‘stop-gap’ grant of representation, in which the court waives a lot of the formal requirements.
Andrews Crosthwaite
Mar 15, 20256 min read


What is a 'restraint of trade' when selling a business
A sale of business contract will generally include a restraint of trade clause that stops the vendor from becoming a competitor to the...
Andrews Crosthwaite
Mar 2, 20252 min read


Changes to the regulations around foreign resident capital gains withholding regulations
The FRCGW rules have changed from 01 January 2025. The ATO advises that these rules are in place to ‘support the collection of tax...
Andrews Crosthwaite
Jan 29, 20252 min read


Can a step-child contest a will?
As noted in our prior post, a Part IV Application under the Administration and Probate Act 1958 ("the Act") is a claim for family...
Andrews Crosthwaite
Jan 24, 20253 min read


My tenant is trying to claim compensation from me at VCAT
There is a duty imposed on a landlord to ensure that a rental premises is in good repair. This is a strict and absolute liability.
Andrews Crosthwaite
Jan 20, 20253 min read


How do I recover a debt in the Magistrates' Court?
Debt under $100,000 may be able to be recovered in the Magistrates' Court.
Andrews Crosthwaite
Oct 28, 20243 min read


What is an ‘off-the-plan’ contract?
Buying a lot “off-the-plan”, in essence, means the precise piece of land does not, as at the date of the contract, have its own individual l
Andrews Crosthwaite
Oct 22, 20244 min read


What is mediation?
Mediation is an alternative dispute resolution method that can be used instead of going to a trial in Court.
Andrews Crosthwaite
Sep 24, 20242 min read


Removal of an Executor: Key Considerations and Legal Procedures
Understanding the Law If you need to remove an executor from a Will, it's good to know the rules. The process is guided by Section 34 of...
Andrews Crosthwaite
Sep 20, 20242 min read


What is the Commercial and Industrial Property Tax?
The Commercial and Industrial Property Tax is a new reform that transitions away from stamp duty for commercial and industrial properties
Andrews Crosthwaite
Jul 16, 20243 min read


Purchasing a property that is subject to an existing lease
In many if not most cases, upon settlement taking place, a purchaser will be entitled to vacant possession of the property. However,...
Andrews Crosthwaite
Jun 4, 20242 min read
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