Vocare Law

This week, our Brisbane office honoured, thanked, and farewelled one of our founders, Andrew Lind GAICD, as he steps into well-earned retirement. We are so grateful for the vision, energy, and heart Andrew, alongside Graham Corney, poured into what was once Corney & Lind Lawyers, and is now Vocare Law. As we paused to reflect on Andrew’s remarkable journey in law and the life lessons he’s shared, we acknowledged the many sacrifices — some known only to a few — that have shaped the firm’s success. For all of this, we are deeply thankful. Enjoy your retirement, Andrew. It’s truly well deserved✨ #GoodAndFaithfulServant #LegacyOfLeadership #VocareLaw #Gratitude

📢 Important Updates for Queensland Incorporated Associations 📢 Effective 1 July 2024, the Queensland Office of Fair Trading introduces key changes impacting Incorporated Associations: Dispute Resolution Procedures: Associations must implement the new model grievance procedure or ensure their existing procedures comply with section 47A of the Associations Incorporation Act 1981 (Qld). This includes allowing members to appoint representatives, unbiased mediation, and fair decision-making processes. Non-compliant procedures will automatically default to the model rules. Remuneration Disclosure Requirements: At annual general meetings, Incorporated Associations must now disclose total remuneration and benefits received by management committee members and senior staff, promoting greater transparency. This applies even if the amount is zero and includes salaries, allowances, and non-monetary benefits. These changes aim to enhance accountability and internal conflict resolution within NFPs. For assistance navigating these new regulations, our not-for-profit and charity team is ready to assist!

A reminder that measured, consistent action leads to impactful outcomes, much like Vocare’s approach to strategic counsel. We are here to advise, coach and care for you, regardless of where your matter may take us. Reach out for more information.

We love that our board gathered in Sydney recently for an important session. 🍓🍍 Food, fun and being together, while staying focused on strategic planning makes for extraordinary outcomes. Well done, team! 👏

🍷 Fundraising with Alcohol: Legal Considerations for Queensland NFPs 🍷 For many not-for-profits (NFPs), fundraising events are key to generating support. But when alcohol sales are involved, compliance with Queensland’s Liquor Act 1992 is critical. Here's what NFPs need to keep in mind: NFP Exemption: The Liquor Act may exempt certain NFPs from requiring a liquor license for one-off fundraising events. However, this only applies if: The event qualifies as a fundraising event. Liquor sales are ancillary to the main purpose of the event. Sales happen between 7:00 AM and midnight (with some restrictions on public holidays). Alcohol is sold responsibly by adults to avoid unsafe environments. Alternative Licensing: If your organisation plans to sell alcohol more frequently or your event doesn't qualify for an exemption, you may need to apply for a: Community Liquor Permit for one-off events on unlicensed premises. Community Club Licence or Community-Other Licence for more regular sales to members and their guests. Oversight is Key: The sale of alcohol must be carefully managed to avoid breaches, such as selling to minors or encouraging excessive consumption. With complex regulations in place, it’s essential to seek professional guidance to ensure compliance and avoid penalties. At Vocare Law, we specialise in helping NFPs navigate these legal requirements to run safe and successful fundraising events. Read the full article here: https://loom.ly/SNq0R5g

Taking the time to listen is how all our team at Vocare Law (formerly Corney & Lind) move forward with their clients. It gives us great encouragement to read responses like this one when a matter has been resolved. Thank you, Josh.

Meet Barry, our Family Law Team Leader, and Courtney, one of our Senior Lawyers in Litigation, along with her adorable dog, Teddy! 🐾 Every alternate Friday is "Bring Your Pet to Work Fri-yay" here at the office, Teddy brought some extra joy to our day recently. #vocarelaw #corneyandlind #bringyourpettowork

Timothy Whincop, Director at our firm and head of our Sydney office, presented at this years The Education Network. law of religious institutions conference in Melbourne. By all accounts, it was a great success for all involved. If you are a religious institution, it is worth considering this conference in the future!

🏛 Understanding Indirect Discrimination Under Queensland’s Anti-Discrimination Act 1991 🏛 The recent QCAT case of Kos v Deltapath Pty Ltd [2024] QCAT 107 offers critical insights into the meaning of "not able to comply" under section 11 of the Anti-Discrimination Act 1991 (Qld). This provision addresses indirect discrimination, where seemingly neutral policies may disproportionately impact individuals with protected attributes. In this case, a Mitre 10 store required all customers to wear face masks during the pandemic. The complainant, suffering from chronic anxiety and agoraphobia, alleged this was indirect discrimination. However, the Tribunal found that personal discomfort, without clear evidence of incapacity, does not meet the threshold of "not able to comply." Key takeaways from the decision: The term “not able to comply” should not be interpreted literally. The real question is whether the person faces a practical incapacity, not merely inconvenience or preference. Personal preferences or unwillingness to comply do not give rise to successful claims of indirect discrimination. Businesses should ensure that policies, even neutral ones, are reasonable and do not disproportionately affect individuals with protected attributes. At Vocare Law, we have over two decades of experience advising institutions and businesses on compliance with the Anti-Discrimination Act and other regulatory frameworks. Reach out for practical legal guidance to ensure your organisation remains compliant and fair.

At Vocare, we believe that true excellence comes from consistently, going the extra mile for our clients. Our commitment to providing not just strategic, timely counsel, but also compassionate and dedicated advocacy, is what sets us apart. We strive to deliver extraordinary outcomes by focusing on the details that matter most to you.