Category W & G Lawyers

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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By Xiaonan (Nancy) Wang, Legal Practice Director, W & G Lawyers

When it comes to property contracts in Queensland, timing is everything. A recent Court of Appeal decision has clarified a deceptively simple but critical question: does “pay” mean that funds are treated as paid once the buyer initiates a transfer, or only when the deposit holder actually receives the money?

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As part of our continued commitment to fostering future legal talent, W & G Lawyers was pleased to host Thomas Nguyen, a PLT student from the Queensland University of Technology (QUT), for a six-week placement from August to September 2025. His time with us reflected our firm’s dedication to providing aspiring practitioners with meaningful, practice-based learning opportunities that bridge academic study and professional practice.

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On 17 September 2025, our Principals Melinda Wen Gao and Xiaonan (Nancy) Wang proudly represented W & G Lawyers at the first workshop of the Chamber Change Program, hosted by Business Chamber Queensland at their Brisbane headquarters.

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Relax, Recharge, and Refocus – Lessons from a Hot Pot Team Experience

Our recent team-building event at Haidilao Hot Pot was more than just a meal – it was a valuable exercise in collaboration, communication, and work-life balance. At W & G Lawyers, we recognise that legal professionals operate under high-pressure environments, managing complex client matters and demanding schedules. Taking time to step back, recharge, and reconnect as a team is essential to maintaining the clarity, focus, and energy required for professional excellence.

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At W & G Lawyers, we regularly advise families, business owners, and trustees on the use of family trusts for asset protection, succession, and tax planning.

While trusts can be powerful and flexible, the trust deed — the legal “rule book” — is often overlooked. Differences in wording between deeds can create major legal and financial consequences, sometimes leading to disputes or unexpected tax bills.

This newsletter highlights key lessons from important cases and explains why keeping your deed up to date is essential.

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The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) has issued new guidance for trustees who have recently established a self-managed super fund (SMSF). Trustees are reminded that several compliance steps must be completed by 31 October.

While accountants often provide important administrative support, trustees remain personally and legally responsible for compliance with the Superannuation Industry (Supervision) Act 1993 (“SIS Act”) and regulations. At W & G Lawyers, we work closely with trustees and their accountants to ensure these obligations are understood and properly managed.

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At W & G Lawyers, we believe in giving back to the community that we are privileged to serve. Recently, we were proud to support St Philomena, a local high school, in their Jogathon Fundraiser.

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