Is this you? As a journalist, you can create a free Muck Rack account to customize your profile, list your contact preferences, and upload a portfolio of your best work.
Claim your profile
Articles by Murray Thornhill
Choosing the right executor for your will
Selecting the right executor is one of the most important decisions you will make when preparing your Will. The executor is the person who manages your estate after you pass away and ensures that your wishes are carried out. A thoughtful choice can make the process far easier for your loved ones. Many people feel unsure about this decision. They worry about the heavy responsibilities involved and the pressure it might place on family members during a difficult time.
Zorzi v Town of Cambridge: A Wake-Up Call for WA Planners
HL HHG Legal Group More HHG Legal Group has been serving Western Australians for over 100 years. With a large team across five offices, we offer top-notch legal advice and representation, exceeding expectations for all clients. This decision sets a precedent for how development approvals are to be interpreted and how planning discretion must be exercised. Australia Real Estate and Construction
AI and business - A practical guide for Australian companies
Australia to date currently takes a "layered approach" to regulating artificial intelligence—sometimes called a "Swiss cheese" approach relying on existing laws and updated statements of policy and voluntary statements of principle. Over time, gaps in the law are identified. As it is a rapidly changing space, being too prescriptive with legislation too early can curtail innovation and send the wrong market signals.
Why Binding Death Benefit Nominations are crucial in Estate Planning
Superannuation has become one of the most significant assets many Australians will ever own. As property prices soar and housing affordability continues to be a challenge for younger generations, superannuation often represents one of the largest components of a person's wealth, especially in retirement. Yet despite its financial weight, superannuation is frequently misunderstood in the context of estate planning.
Legislative update: Mining Amendment (Transfer of Royalty Administration) Bill 2025
By Riaan Piek, Managing Associate. The Western Australian Government is in the process of stepping up enacting important legislative reform through the Mining Amendment (Transfer of Royalty Administration) Bill 2025 (the Bill).
Interest on late payments to the ATO
Riaan Piek, Special Counsel discusses interest on late payments to the ATO and what your options are for reduction. Can interest charged by the ATO be reduced? The ATO levies interest on late payments of tax and particularly unpaid taxes (known as 'general interest charge' (GIC)), in much the same way as late credit card payment penalties.
Legal Insight: Third-Party Intervention In Planning Decisions And Its Impact On Civil Construction Projects
By Michelle Todd, Senior Associate A recent decision by the State Administrative Tribunal (Tribunal) in Satterley Property Group Pty Ltd v Western Australian Planning Commission [2025] WASAT 17 (Satterly) offers an interesting development which may impact the Civil Construction industry. While largely about the proposed North Stoneville Structure Plan No 34 (SP34), the case highlighted the increasing influence of third-party interventions in planning decisions.
Can political communication override local government standards?
Our local government team discusses Kingston and Local Government Standards Panel [2025] WASAT 43. By Michelle Todd, Senior Associate A recent decision by the State Administrative Tribunal (SAT) has brought attention to the role and powers of Local Government Standards Panels in addressing alleged breaches of conduct by elected members, particularly where those breaches intersect with the implied constitutional freedom of political communication.
Court Mediations and the Enforceability of a Settlement Reached
By Alexandra Turner, Senior Associate In business and private life, conflicts are inevitable. However, lengthy court battles can be costly, time-consuming, and damaging to valuable relationships. Court ordered and administered mediation is a powerful alternative dispute resolution method that offers a more efficient, flexible, and collaborative approach to resolving disagreements.
Employment Law: Wage Theft
Senior Associate, Craig Fordham, and Associate Jane Lovett discuss the offence of wage theft. Introduction From 1 January 2025, intentional underpayment of employee wages or entitlements ('wage theft') may be a criminal offence. The wage theft offence under section 327A of the Fair Work Act 2009 (Cth) ('the Act') applies only to conduct occurring after the new law commences, that is, after 1 January 2025.
Local Government: Development Applications Challenged
A recent decision by the State Administrative Tribunal (Tribunal) has raised concerns about Local Governments' ability to refuse development approvals for works. In Onslow Marine Supply Base v Shire of Ashburton [2025] WASAT 24,[1] the Tribunal reviewed the Shire of Ashburton's local planning scheme and determined that the Shire did not have sufficient grounds to refuse approval for works carried out by Onslow Marine Supply Base (OMSB) related to Chevron's gas platform decommissioning activities.
Live Sheep Export Ban - What's Changed?
The live export trade has seen significant legislative changes in recent months, especially concerning the export of live sheep. On 10 July 2024, the Export Control Amendment (Ending Live Sheep Exports by Sea) Act 2024 came into effect, the ultimate purpose of which was to amend the Export Control Act 2020 (the Act). The amendments have brought about notable shifts in the regulations governing the live export trade.
Elisha v Vision Australia Limited [2024] HCA 50
Senior Associate, Kimberly Jones, discusses the recent case of Elisha v Vision and important takeaways for employers. High Court Decision Highlights Employer Liability for Psychiatric Injury in Disciplinary Processes In a significant employment law decision, the High Court of Australia ruled that employers may be liable for psychiatric injuries caused by poorly managed disciplinary processes.
Guidance when Dealing with the Department of Agriculture and Food
HL HHG Legal Group More HHG Legal Group has been serving Western Australians for over 100 years. With a large team across five offices, we offer top-notch legal advice and representation, exceeding expectations for all clients. Guidance when dealing with the Department of Agriculture regarding breaches of regulations Australia Food, Drugs, Healthcare, Life Sciences
Wind Farm Agreements - what are the benefits?
Wind Farm Agreements: Analysing Stakeholder Benefits In Western Australia, developers are increasingly approaching landowners to establish wind farms on their properties. Wind farm agreements often take a multifaceted lease arrangement characterized by various stages, each presenting distinct risks and advantages.
Tesseract International Pty Ltd v Pascale Construction Pty Ltd [2024] HCA 24
High Court changes landscape of arbitrations where claims may involve multiple wrongdoers The High Court recently delivered a landmark ruling in Tesseract International Pty Ltd v Pascale Construction Pty Ltd [2024] HCA 24, where it reversed a previously held consensus view that proportionate liability legislation does not ordinarily apply to arbitral proceedings.
Differences between the roles of Executor and Trustee
Consultant, Kimi Shah, discusses the important distinction between Executors and Trustees: The roles of an executor and a trustee, though often held by the same person, have distinct responsibilities in managing a deceased person's estate. Role of the Executor: The executor administers the deceased's estate by collecting assets, paying debts and taxes, and distributing assets to beneficiaries as per the Will.
Documents produced for court: not to be used for other purposes
The Harman undertaking is an implied undertaking made to the Court that any documents produced for the purposes of Court proceedings are not to be used for any ulterior purpose, other than the litigation in which they were produced.
Closing Loopholes updates to the Fair Work Act 2009
HL HHG Legal Group More HHG Legal Group has been serving Western Australians for over 100 years. With a large team across five offices, we offer top-notch legal advice and representation, exceeding expectations for all clients. 'Closing Loopholes' updates to the Fair Work Act 2009 (Act) come into effect on 26 August 2024. Australia Employment and HR
Wise to the ways of property transference in Wills
HHG Legal Group Managing Director Murray Thornhill talks to The West Australian's Hana Humbolt about the process of inheriting property and what you need to know. While bereavement is not how most people might see themselves coming into equity, the last thing you want to be unsure about when processing the loss of a loved one is how inheriting property works.
A tribute to WA farmers this National Farm Safety Week 2024
HHG Legal Group Associate, Richard Dewar, pays tribute to the legacy of the WA farming community to mark National Farm Safety Week 2024 (14 to 21 July). As a leading law firm dedicated to farmers and the communities and businesses that support them, this National Farm Safety Week, HHG Legal Group would like to pay special tribute to the many contributors, leaders and participants in the WA agricultural industry as a whole. Farming in WA, and across Australia, faces unprecedented challenges.
Workplace Investigations - 11 Questions to Consider
When assessing an allegation involving employee misconduct such as discrimination, fraud, theft, harassment, or other concerns, a workplace investigation is best done after meticulous planning, and suitable steps taken to ensure impartiality, and a fair procedural approach. To that end, we have compiled 11 questions to be considered throughout the process. 1. Is a managerial response appropriate? Not every workplace incident or complaint should warrant a formal workplace investigation.
Employee Duties (part 2) in Employment Relationships
Welcome to part 2 of Employee Duties, Part 1 being Restraint clauses in Employment Contracts, which can be found here. In Australia, restraints of trade are not only governed by the employment contract. Protection of employers’ interests is also provided by way of legislation and established legal and equitable principles.
Provocation in Western Australia: An overview
HHG Legal Group, Senior Associate, Aaron Potts, discusses the use of provocation as a defence. What is Provocation? Provocation is a defence which can be used if you are charged with an assault. The defence Provocation is defined in section 245 of the Criminal Code Act Compilation Act 1913. CRIMINAL CODE ACT COMPILATION ACT 1913. What constitutes Provocation – 'the Elements'?
The essential role of a lawyer in drafting your Will
HHG Legal Group Special Counsel, Lucy Ferreira, and Lawyer, Maria Zappala, have provided guidance on the essential role of a Lawyer in will drafting. In an era where convenience often reigns supreme, the temptation to opt for quick-fix solutions like post office Wills or online Will services can be alluring. However, when it comes to safeguarding your estate and ensuring your final wishes are honoured, the expertise of an experienced lawyer is essential.
Restraint clauses in Employment Contracts (Part 1)
Restraint of trade clauses seek to prohibit or restrict an outgoing employee from doing something, normally, working for a competitor of the former employer and/or contacting former clients/employees of the employer. What is a restraint of trade clause?
RETENTION TRUST SCHEMES in the construction industry in Western Australia
Ensuring timely payment for work has been a longstanding issue in the construction industry. The industry is inherently cashflow dependant, interruptions to payments to subcontractors invariably lead to disputes and delays, can jeopardise construction projects and destroy businesses and livelihoods. We have seen widespread issues caused by labour cost increases and supply chain issues, and insolvencies in the industry have had far reaching consequences for owners, suppliers, and subcontractors.
Sustainability and Renewable Energy - Land Access Agreements
The agricultural industry has a long history of striving for sustainability. Generations have benefitted from learning and improving the historical practices of their predecessors to ensure the land remains productive and continues to support generations and communities. More recently, the renewable energy sector’s need for access to land, particularly for renewable energy projects, has increased significantly.
Effect of divorce and property settlement on wills made during a marriage in Western Australia
Throughout a marital relationship, married couples will entangle their lives, their property, and their Wills. Property can be purchased in joint names, and they often leave their estate to their surviving spouse upon their death. This is not uncommon, and unfortunately, neither is the breakdown of a marriage. The former couple is then faced with the unenvious task of unwinding their lives, property, and Wills.
WHY plants are good in the workplace: Caring for your staff simplified - Health & Safety - Australia
It is a well-documented fact that incorporating plant life into workspaces can have a profound effect on employee well-being and productivity. This assertion is supported by a plethora of research.In the context of Western Australian workplaces, acknowledging the multifaceted benefits of integrating elements of nature into the workplace is not merely a matter of decoration, but a strategic imperative for enhancing staff care and overall organisational health.
A simple guide to succession planning for small business - - Australia
Navigate the complexities of succession planning for small businesses with ease, following the straightforward guidance provided by Emma Catterall, an Associate in our Wills, Estates & Succession Planning team. Succession planning is the process of putting in place strategies to future-proof your business, whether that be from loss of key personnel, sale of the business, your retirement or your death.
Legal essentials for launching a business in Western Australia - - Australia
Emma Cohen, Associate in our Commercial Litigation team outlines 10 things to think about when starting up a Business in Western Australia. Embarking on a business venture in Western Australia is a promising yet complex process. This guide distils the legal essentials into a streamlined overview, ensuring your business' foundation is strong, compliant, and poised for growth.
Too late to pull the trigger? Amendments to the Firearms laws in Western Australia
Introduction: Ownership of firearms in WA For many years, the use and ownership of firearms in Western Australia has been frowned upon, and many owners have been demonised by other members of the community. Responsible gun owners would argue that these attitudes are due to a lack of understanding and education of the wider community, concerning the use and capabilities of firearms.
Compliance essentials: Understanding Australia's fixed-term employment contract changes
As of 6 December 2023, there are new rules that impact the use of fixed-term employment contracts. These are the final changes to come into force as part of the Fair Work Legislation Amendment (Secure Jobs Better Pay) Act 2022, which was passed on 2 December 2022 This article will address the three key limitations on fixed-term contracts, exceptions to these limitations, and the potential consequences of non-compliance.
Squatters rights - adverse possession laws in Australia - Real Estate - Australia
The recent 'bizarre squatter's rights case' in Sydney is such an example in that case, a developer took possession of an abandoned home, renovated it, leased it out for 19 years, and subsequently applied and successfully received legal title to the home. In less brazen cases some people have successfully taken possession of strips of land, driveways, gardens and successfully become registered on the title to the land on which they have squatted.
What will the amended 1972 Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Act actually say?
The new Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Act 2021 (Act) will come into force on 1 July 2023, now being at the end of the 12 month transitional period from when the law was passed. The Act is the result of bi-partisan parliamentary recommendations following what many agree is WA's history of a lack of care for and destruction of aboriginal cultural heritage. The most notable example is probably the recent destruction of the Juukan Gorge rock shelters.
Encroachments and boundary issues
What are my rights if my neighbours are undertaking building work which will affect my land?
Bail application in Western Australia
A person charged with an offence by the Western Australian (WA) Police may be arrested and remanded in custody in circumstances where it is believed that the person charged may not appear before the requisite court to answer to the charge(s), where there are issues of community, or personal, safety, where the offence committed is a serious offence or when the person charged is classified as a schedule 2 offender.
Changes to the Western Australian Industrial Relations Act
Director, Murray Thornhill, and Lawyer, Kimberly Jones, in our Commercial, Employment, and Dispute Resolution team have outlined the changes to the Western Australian industrial relations system that came into effect on 20 June 2022 A reminder of changes to WA state employment laws Changes to the Western Australian industrial relations system come into effect on 20 June 2022.
Sexual harassment in the workplace
Senior Associate, Gemma Wheeler-Carver, in our Employment team reflects on legislative changes designed to minimise sexual harassment in the workplace. Recap on Sexual Harassment and changes to the law Our Employment law team reflects on legislative changes designed to minimise sexual harassment in the workplace.
Building disputes - registered builders, plumbers, painters - Construction & Planning - Australia
Director, Murray Thornhill, and Associate, Patrick Beilby, in our Dispute Resolution team have highlighted that parties wishing to resolve complex building disputes now face projected 4-year delays before they can obtain outcomes.
Local government contracts awarded under tender
Following on from the most recent article by the HHG Legal Group Local Government Team looking at process contracts, this article examines other possible claims a disgruntled unsuccessful tenderer could potentially bring against a local government.
Changes to the Industrial Relations Act in Western Australia
A reminder of changes to WA state employment laws Changes to the Western Australian industrial relations system come into effect on 20 June 2022. The Industrial Relations Legislation Amendment Act 2021 (IRLA Act) (passed 16 December 2021) amends the following acts: Industrial Relations Act 1979 (IR Act); R Long Service Leave Act 1958; Minimum Conditions of Employment Act 1993; and Public and Bank Holidays Act Does this apply to you? This article focuses on changes to the IR Act.
Federal and state wage increase decisions 2022
Gemma Wheeler Carver, Senior Associate, in our Employment and Dispute Resolution teams, has outlined the wage increase announcement made by the Fair Work Commission. Wage increase The Fair Work Commission has today announced that the minimum wage will increase by 5.2% to $812.60 per week (or $21.38 per hour) from 1 July 2022. Increases to rates under the federal Awards will be 4.6 percent for wages above $869.60 per week and $40 per week for those below that figure.
EOFY employment law checklist 2022
Gemma Wheeler Carver, Senior Associate, and Murray Thornhill, Director, in our Employment and Dispute Resolution teams, share their EOFY Employment Law Checklist 2022 that outlines the main issues that employers should check during this time of year. The end of the financial year is an extremely busy time for all businesses, but it's important you don't neglect your employment law obligations during this period.
Tendering and contractual liability for local government
Tendering & contractual liability for local governments When it comes to tenders, local government officers working in procurement are well aware of their regulatory obligations under Part 4 of the Local Government (Functions and General) Regulations 1996 (WA). However, one aspect of putting out a request for tender (RFT) which can be overlooked is the risk of a claim being brought by an unsuccessful tenderer.
Dangerous driving in Western Australia
Lisa Riley, Lawyer, in our Crime & Traffic team has outlined the penalties of Dangerous Driving in WA.
Do not ignore a Statutory Demand!
Special Counsel, Blair Campbell, in our Dispute Resolution team outlines statutory demands and what to do if you receive a statutory demand. Do not ignore a statutory demand! One would think that this would be self-evident, especially since the statutory demand document explicitly states on it: A failure to respond to a statutory demand can have very serious consequences for a company.
Workplace Health and Safety Act (2020) commenced on 31 March 2022
Special Counsel, Matthew Lilly, and Lawyer, Kimberly Jones, in our Agribusiness team discuss the Workplace Health and Safety Act (2020) and the new obligations in agribusiness. The Work Health and Safety Act 2020 (WA) (Act) commenced on 31 March 2022, following the publication of 3 sets of regulations under the Act. The new laws provide a framework to protect the health, safety, and welfare of workers in WA workplaces, including farms, and of other people who might be affected by the work.
Overhaul of outdated statutory legacy scheme
Australia: Overhaul of outdated statutory legacy scheme - 98.5 Sonshine FM - 30 March 2022 29 April 2022 HHG Legal Group To print this article, all you need is to be registered or login on Mondaq.com. Simon Creek, Executive Chairman, Nationally Accredited Mediator, featured on Sonshine FM to discuss how the overhaul of statutory legacy scheme brings fairness to WA families. Please listen to the segment below. Click here.
Show More
loading
Actions
Is this you?
As a journalist, you can create a free Muck Rack account to customize your profile, list your contact preferences, and upload a portfolio of your best work.Get in touch with Murray
Contact Murray, search articles and posts on X, monitor coverage, and track replies from one place.
Learn more about Muck Rack