Legal News
New laws for trees and fences
Every year, thousands of Queenslanders find themselves in the middle of a neighbourhood dispute about a tree or a fence. The new Neighbourhood Disputes Resolution Act 2011 (the Act) commenced today (1 November 2011) making it easier for neighbours to resolve disputes about trees and fences.
You can find out more information or direct enquiries to the following places:
• www.neighbourhooddisputes.qld.gov.au
• email NeighbourhoodDisputesResolution@justice.qld.gov.au
While no two queries or disputes will be the same, a step-by-step guide is available at the website to help people find the best solution for them and their neighbour. While the new legislation does not cover disputes about issues including noise and animals, links to organisations and resources that do address these issues are also available at the website.
New Tenancy Legislation
De facto Changes
New laws enabling de facto couples to access the Family Court, as married couples can, for property and spousal maintenance matters commenced on 1 March 2009.
Unfair Dismissal Changes
Under the Fair Work Act 2009 (Cth), from 1 July 2009 unfair dismissal will apply to small business employers (those employing more than 15 full-time employees) caught by the Federal system. An application must be filed within 14 days. For State awards the time limit is still 21 days.
Amalgamation of Tribunals
On 1 December 2009 many tribunals will amalgamate to form a single body – the Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal (QCAT).
