When “Three Storeys” Won Over Council: Lessons from a Recent Land and Environment Court Appeal
13 February
A recent decision in the Land and Environment Court offers important lessons for homeowners navigating council opposition to development applications. In Robinson v Georges River Council, the Court granted approval for a three-storey home despite...[Read More]
Five things people often overlook when planning their legal affairs
12 February
Legal planning is often placed in the “important, but not urgent” category. Many people assume they have plenty of time to address legal matters, or that a simple document completed years ago is sufficient. In reality, legal planning plays a...[Read More]
Aged care isn’t just about care: What families need to know before it’s urgent
12 February
Aged care is a broad term used to describe the support and services provided to older Australians who need help with everyday living as they age. This can range from basic assistance at home—such as cleaning, meals, and transport—through to...[Read More]
Court Grants Approval for Cronulla Residential Development with Key Planning Concessions
5 February
Case: Cronulla Esplanade Pty Ltd v Sutherland Shire Council [2026] NSWLEC 1037 Case Overview The Land and Environment Court has upheld an appeal and granted conditional development consent for alterations and additions to a residential flat...[Read More]
Key Appeal Decision: Court Orders New Trial in High-Conflict Parenting Case
5 February
Case: Jefford & Kaluza [2026] FedCFamC1F 281 Case Overview The Federal Circuit and Family Court has allowed an appeal against parenting orders that completely severed a father’s relationship with his two young children. By a 2-1 majority...[Read More]
Supply shortage underpins shaky growth in home values
5 February
Growth in Australian home values re-accelerated in January, defying predictions 2026 would be a softer year for the property market and fears of an imminent Reserve Bank rate rise. The median dwelling price hit a fresh national record of $912,465,...[Read More]
A Fresh Start: Wishing You a Joyful 2026 from All of Us at Harriss Jones Lawyers
15 January
We hope this message finds you refreshed and rejuvenated. All of us at Harriss Jones Lawyers extend our warmest wishes, hoping you and your loved ones enjoyed a wonderful Christmas and a happy New Year, and were able to take a well-deserved...[Read More]
Deceased Estates and Property – What are your options?
23 January
Griffith University recently authored a report that shows over the next 20 years there will be an estimated $3.5 Trillion in wealth that will transfer through inheritance. For many, that will include a property (or two) and while it’s not front of...[Read More]
Understanding NSW DCPs: How Council Guides Your Development Design
29 January
The Planning Series: Development Control Plans If you are planning a new home, renovation, or investment property, you will encounter a range of planning controls that will influence what you can build, how it looks, and how Council assesses it....[Read More]
The benefits and challenges with buying a property off the plan
15 January
Buying property off the plan offers numerous benefits, but it also comes with some challenges. This guide will explore the advantages and disadvantages to help you make an informed decision. Advantages of Buying Off the Plan More Customisation...[Read More]
5 Tips for communicating with senior family members
22 January
Whether it’s your parents or grandparents who are living with you, providing aged care comes with its own set of challenges. As time passes, you may realise that communicating with a senior can get more difficult as they advance in age. Daily...[Read More]
Essential considerations for navigating the Australian legal system
22 January
Before going to court in Australia, it’s important to consider several key factors, whether you’re involved in a civil dispute, facing criminal charges, or engaging in another legal matter. Here’s a comprehensive overview of what to...[Read More]
Copyright and Trademarks: 7 things every small business should think about
29 January
When you’re running a small business, legal considerations can feel like background noise—important, but easy to push aside while you focus on customers, cash flow, and growth. However, copyright and trademarks are not “big business only”...[Read More]
Rate hikes, affordability won’t curb house prices
29 January
Despite the threat of higher interest rates and rising affordability pressures, real estate agents and finance professionals remain bullish about property prices this year. But a divergence is opening up between the NSW and Victorian markets and the...[Read More]
A guide on what to do if you’re being sued or asked to pay damages
15 January
Facing legal action, whether it comes as a lawsuit or a demand to pay damages, can be incredibly stressful. It may trigger feelings of fear, confusion, anger, or embarrassment, especially if the claim feels unfair or comes as a complete...[Read More]