Personal Disputes

Defamation claims in Queensland, which our team handles, are governed by the Defamation Act 2005 (Qld). A plaintiff must prove is governed by the Defamation Act 2005 (Qld). A plaintiff must prove the defendant published defamatory material about them to a third party. Serious harm must also be demonstrated since 2021 amendments. Defences include truth (justification), honest opinion, qualified privilege, and public interest. The District Court of Queensland has jurisdiction for most defamation claims, with a capped damages scale. Concerns notices and offers to make amends are mandatory pre-litigation steps. Injunctions and apologies are available.

Yes. The Neighbourhood Disputes (Dividing Fences and Trees) Act 2011 (Qld) governs tree and fence disputes between neighbours in Queensland. Our team helps clients resolve neighbourhood disputes. Our team helps clients understand their rights and obligations regarding dividing fences, trees, and other neighbourhood issues.

At our firm, the Personal Injuries Proceedings Act 2002 (Qld) (PIPA) sets out mandatory pre-court procedures for most personal injury claims in Queensland. Claimants must give the respondent a notice of claim within the prescribed period (generally 9 months for motor vehicle accidents and 12 months for other personal injuries). The respondent has a period to investigate and respond. Parties must exchange relevant information and attend a compulsory conference to attempt settlement before court proceedings can be issued. Non-compliance can prejudice the claim.

If your insurance claim is denied in Queensland, our team can help. You first request an internal review by the insurer, who must respond within 30 days. If your insurance claim is denied in Queensland, you first request an internal review by the insurer, who must respond within 30 days. If the internal review upholds the denial, you can lodge a free complaint with the Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA), which can award compensation up to $1,065,000 for superannuation complaints and $605,000 for other complaints (2025 limits). For policy interpretation disputes, you may also consider court proceedings. Strict time limits apply — most policies require claims within 30 days of the event.

QCAT handles these matters. Our team represents clients before QCAT. qCAT's minor debt jurisdiction hears claims for debts up to $25,000. QCAT also hears other minor civil disputes under the Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal Act 2009 (Qld), including consumer disputes under the ACL, residential tenancy disputes (RTA), and minor building disputes (with QBCC). The process is designed to be accessible, with no strict rules of evidence. QCAT can make binding orders and, if not complied with, orders can be enforced through the Magistrates Court as if they were court judgments.