Category Property Law

This article was written by Grace Blake Solicitor at W & G Lawyers.

A failing retaining wall is rarely a small problem. Replacing one can cost tens of thousands of dollars, and the most expensive question is usually the most contested one: who has to pay?

Many Queensland property owners assume they will simply split the cost with their neighbour, the way they would for a dividing fence. That assumption is often wrong, and acting on it can leave you badly out of pocket. Retaining walls are treated very differently under Queensland law. Who pays usually comes down to who benefits from the wall, where it sits, and who was at fault when it failed.

This article explains where the financial risk really lies. It is general information only and is not legal advice. Every retaining wall matter turns on its own facts, so please speak to us about your situation.

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This article was written by Grace Blake Solicitor at W & G Lawyers. 

At W and G Lawyers, we are seeing a growing trend across Queensland, particularly on the Gold Coast, where local councils are increasingly targeting unapproved works and boundary issues during property transactions. Following discussions with Stewart Title, title insurance is worth considering as a risk management tool for buyers navigating this evolving landscape.

We have previously written about the general benefits of title insurance. This article focuses on a more recent and specific trend. Council enforcement activity across Queensland has increased sharply, and this has real consequences for buyers who may not have previously considered title insurance a priority.

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This article was written by Simone Garcia Solicitor at W & G Lawyers.

Buying your first home is a major milestone, and off‑the‑plan properties can be an appealing pathway into the market. They often offer lower upfront costs, more time to save before settlement, and the excitement of moving into a brand‑new home. But these benefits come with risks—particularly for first‑time buyers who may be unfamiliar with complex property contracts.

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This article was written by Grace Blake Solicitor at W & G Lawyers. For further information about Grace Blake’s professional background, legal experience, and areas of practice, please click on her name to view her full profile.

When you buy a property in Queensland, the focus is almost entirely on the finish line: Settlement. You navigate contracts, searches, and disclosure statements, ticking every box to ensure the keys finally end up in your hand.

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A Buyer’s Guide

One of the most commonly misunderstood areas is insurance, particularly the point at which the risk of the property passes to the buyer. As solicitors, our role is to warn clients about these risks and help them take proactive steps to protect themselves.

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Introduction

In September–October 2025, the Queensland Department of Justice ran a public consultation asking buyers, developers, and industry groups for feedback on the 2023 “sunset clause” reforms for off-the-plan land contracts. The government wants to know: are these laws protecting buyers as intended, and do they need to go further? Justice Qld Consultation

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When purchasing or developing property in Queensland, it is essential to consider flood risk as part of your legal due diligence. Flood exposure can affect a property’s development potential, insurance costs, future resale value, and importantly, compliance with planning law and building codes.

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Buying or selling a home is exciting, but the paperwork can feel overwhelming. In Queensland, most residential sales use the REIQ Contract for Houses and Residential Land, which includes key clauses that define your rights and responsibilities.

At W & G Lawyers, we make sure you understand what you’re signing before you commit. Below are some of the most important terms explained in simple, everyday language.

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Queensland has extended key incentives for first home buyers, making it easier to enter the property market. Eligible buyers of new homes can now receive a $30,000 First Home Owner Grant (FHOG) for contracts signed between 20 November 2023 and 30 June 2026.

From 1 May 2025, qualifying buyers of new homes or vacant residential land to build their first residence may also enjoy a full transfer duty (stamp duty) exemption — with no price cap.

Both benefits have different rules but can work together to reduce upfront costs. Here’s a clear summary of what they mean and how you can prepare.

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Deeds are commonly used in property, finance, and commercial transactions because they provide certainty and strong legal enforceability. But what happens if a deed is signed by one party and sent out, while the other side never signs it?

A recent Queensland Supreme Court decision highlights how critical the act of “delivery” can be in determining whether a deed is binding.

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