News Centre

March 22, 2022 · Mingqiang
Australian Department of Education Cracks Down on Contract Cheating Services — Prison Sentences and Fines with No Leniency
Contract cheating services often attract students by offering “study support”. Providers face up to 2 years in prison or a fine of A$110,000. Although the law does not penalise students who use these services, institutional disciplinary policies still apply, and students who purchase and use them will also be investigated.

March 21, 2022 · Qiqi
Employer Sponsorship Good News! 200+ Occupations Including Marketing Specialist / Graphic Designer / Cook Now Have a More Direct Path to PR — Student Visa / 485 Holders May Also Qualify
The employer-sponsorship policy announced on 17 March 2022 provides a 186 TRT permanent residence pathway for short-term occupation list applicants and some 457 holders who do not meet transitional arrangements. Applications open on 1 July 2022, subject to the relevant requirements.

March 18, 2022 · Mingqiang
Employee leaves with company resources and clients — is the boss left with no recourse?
Employers commonly include restraint of trade clauses in employment agreements to address departing employees using clients or trade secrets to compete. Signing does not ensure court support: clauses must be reasonable and not harm the public interest, and their duration and geographical scope are also scrutinised.

March 17, 2022 · Mingqiang
Recently Flooded? | NSW/QLD Small Business Grants and How to Buy Flood Insurance for Your Home
After the NSW and Queensland floods beginning in February 2022, small businesses, non-profits, primary producers and some clubs can apply for grants or loans under their respective conditions. Home flood compensation depends on policy terms; retain records of damage and purchase receipts after flooding.

March 16, 2022 · Mingqiang
You Might Truly Have Experienced or Be Experiencing Family Violence! A Detailed Guide to the Right Way to Seek Help
In Australia, family violence includes threats, financial control and social isolation as well as physical harm. Children may be affected even when violence is not directed at them. Once police intervene, the person subjected to violence no longer decides whether prosecution proceeds.
![[Real Case Study] Caution: Signing a Financial Agreement Does Not Guarantee It Will Be Enforceable](https://www.nslegal.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/case-study-property-agreement-invalidated-768x434.jpg)
March 9, 2022 · Mingqiang
[Real Case Study] Caution: Signing a Financial Agreement Does Not Guarantee It Will Be Enforceable
A financial agreement signed as required may still be set aside for duress or undue influence. The court considers whether both parties fully understood it and signed of their own free will. Even clearly unfair terms do not necessarily invalidate an agreement if both parties signed voluntarily and understood it.

March 8, 2022 · Mingqiang
Think Twice Before Acting as a Guarantor — Don’t Become the Fall Guy Out of Sentiment!
If a friend or relative asks you to guarantee a loan, do not agree out of obligation alone. If the borrower fails to repay on time, you must meet the corresponding repayment obligations; overdue or unpaid debts enter your credit record. Understand your liability and their ability to repay before agreeing.

March 3, 2022 · Qiqi
Another Australian Work Visa Option! No Need to Worry → Soaring Points, Sudden Policy Changes, Unpredictable Invitations! If You Have a Job, You Have an Opportunity — Most Occupations Can Lead to PR!
The employer-sponsored Subclass 482 visa requires no migration points or invitation queue and allows primary and secondary applicants to work full time. Applicants must still meet occupation, qualification, English, work experience and employer sponsorship requirements. Occupations on the medium- and long-term list may offer a pathway to Subclass 186 permanent residence.

March 3, 2022 · Mingqiang
The house my parents bought for me — how do I stop my ex from taking a share in a divorce?
A home bought with your parents’ money may still enter the shared property pool on divorce. A financial agreement can specify ownership, while a parent–child loan agreement can establish that the purchase money must be repaid. Signing requirements and any increase in the property’s value also need consideration.

March 2, 2022 · Mingqiang
Stuck in China and Unable to Handle Your Australian Affairs? A Power of Attorney Lets Family, Friends or Professionals Help on Your Behalf!
If you cannot personally handle Australian banking or property matters, a power of attorney can appoint someone to act for you. An enduring power of attorney can remain effective after loss of decision-making capacity. Consider the attorney’s powers and the registration requirement for property matters in New South Wales.
