Navigating legal issues in contracting for AI solutions

By: Nick Martin At a glance AI solutions differ significantly from traditional technology products, requiring businesses to take a different approach in addressing the usual issues in technology contracts, such as data security,  IP ownership,  liability and service levels. Conducting thorough due diligence and implementing robust testing or trial periods are crucial for customers to […]

Federal Court judge finds John Pesutto defamed Moira Deeming

By: Georgie Austin and Deniz Coskundag Deeming v Pesutto (No 3) [2024] FCA 1430 At a glance Parliamentary Member Ms Moira Deeming was awarded $300,000 in damages after the Federal Court ruled that she was defamed by a series of statements and media interviews made by Victorian Opposition Leader Mr John Pesutto, following a rally […]

Victorian Court of Appeal allows Western Bulldogs’ appeal against damages award

By: Richard Leder, Jacquie Goodwin, Blake Pappas and Deniz Coskundag Footscray Football Club Ltd v Adam Kneale [2024] VSCA 314 At a glance The Victorian Court of Appeal has allowed the Club’s appeal against the quantum of Mr Kneale’s general damages and economic loss claim, significantly reducing the jury’s $5.9 million award of damages to […]

Tech professionals and AI: Navigating liability and emerging risks

By: Stephen Morrissey, Christy Mellifont and Kayleigh Maxwell At a glance AI technology faces growing scrutiny over data privacy and cybersecurity concerns, with the Australian Government introducing voluntary safety standards and exploring mandatory guardrails for high-risk AI applications. Generative AI is raising legal questions about copyright infringement, ownership of AI-generated works, and liability under Australia’s […]

Pafburn: High Court ruling reshapes liability for developers and builders under the DBP Act

By: Charu Stevenson, James Clohesy and Chris Knight Pafburn Pty Limited v The Owners – Strata Plan No 84674 [2024] HCA 49 At a glance The High Court ruled that developers and builders cannot rely on proportionate liability defences for breaches of the DBP Act duty of care due to its non-delegable nature. The decision […]

Proposed changes to Victoria’s building regulatory system are likely to increase consumer protections – but what will it mean for builders, relevant building surveyors and design professionals?

By: Sarah Metcalfe, Andrew Brennan and Nick Lux At a glance The release of the Victorian Building Authority’s (VBA) independently commissioned report ‘Victorian Building Authority – The Case for Transformation’1 in October 2024 (VBA Report) provided the background to important reforms to the Victorian building regulatory regime recently announced by the Victorian Minister for Planning2 […]

Defendant bears a heavy burden in proving unfair trial for successful stay applications

By: Greg Carruthers-Smith, Gemma Burke and Maria Canon RC v The Salvation Army (Western Australia) Property Trust [2024] HCA 43 At a glance The High Court of Australia has allowed an appeal to set aside a judgment staying civil proceedings relating to alleged sexual abuse occurring in 1959/60. The death of the perpetrator and the […]

Privacy and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2024 passed

By: Kieran Doyle, Nicole Gabryk and Rakhee Dullabh At a glance Most parts of the Privacy and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2024 (Cth) start the day after Royal Assent. However, APP1 changes for automated decision-making take effect in 24 months, and the new statutory tort for serious invasions of privacy starts within 6 months or […]

Breaking down the Cyber Security Act 2024 and amendments to the SOCI Act

By: Kieran Doyle, Nicole Gabryk and Rakhee Dullabh At a glance The new Act strengthens safeguards for individuals, businesses, and critical infrastructure, enhancing Australia’s resilience to cyber threats. Businesses must report significant cyber incidents, including ransomware demands and payments, ensuring improved visibility and coordinated responses. The act updates standards for IoT devices, expands critical infrastructure […]

One test or two? Supreme Court considers how a Medical Panel should disregard impairments from unrelated injuries or causes

By: Jonathan Maher and Ben Kelly At a glance The Claimant issued a judicial review application to challenge the Medical Panel’s decision that his knee impairment stemmed from pre-existing conditions, not a fall. The Victorian Supreme Court upheld the Panel’s decision, rejecting the Claimant’s argument that section 28LL(3) of the Wrongs Act 1958 (Vic) contains […]