ASIC has fined ANZ Bank $240 million for systemic failures in managing deceased estates. In this bonus episode, Alex Stewart from Ballantyne Law explains what went wrong, why it matters for grieving families, and the importance of getting the right legal guidance when administering an estate.

Becoming a parent changes everything — including your legal needs. In this episode of Billable Banter with Ballantyne Law, James speaks with Senior Associate Sidnee Jennings about the estate planning essentials for new parents. From wills and guardianship to superannuation and enduring powers of attorney, learn how to protect your family and avoid costly headaches.

In this bonus episode of Billable Banter with Ballantyne Law, Sidnee explains the risks and responsibilities of signing a guarantee — and why independent legal advice is essential before you put pen to paper.

You’ll learn:

• What a guarantee actually means in legal terms
• Why banks and lenders require independent legal advice
• The risks if you don’t fully understand your obligations
• How proper advice can protect you from costly consequences

📍 Visit our website to watch Sidnee's discuss this topic in more detail: https://ballantynelaw.com/insights/what-is-a-guarantee-why-you-need-legal-advice/

In this bonus episode of Billable Banter with Ballantyne Law, James explores an issue many families face today: parents advancing money to help their children into the property market.

While generous, these arrangements can cause disputes if they aren’t properly documented. James explains:

• The legal presumption of advancement (why the law assumes it’s a gift)
• How to clearly document whether funds are a gift or a loan
• When to consider a loan agreement or registering a mortgage
• How good documentation helps avoid costly disputes later on

If you’re considering advancing money to your children, listen in for practical steps to protect your family and your finances.

For tailored advice, contact Ballantyne Law today: https://ballantynelaw.com

In this episode of Ballantyne Law Insights, we break down testamentary capacity — the ability to make a valid will — and why it’s one of the most disputed issues in estate law. Allie, Senior Solicitor and head of our estates division, explains the legal test, common pitfalls, and how to safeguard your will from future challenges.

In Episode 3 of Billable Banter with Ballantyne Law, we clear up common leasing questions for business owners and tenants. What’s the difference between a commercial lease and a retail shop lease? When should a lease be registered? What does a “make good” clause really mean? And what are the risks of having no written lease at all?

Whether you’re starting a new lease or taking over an existing one, this episode delivers practical legal tips to help you protect your position and avoid costly mistakes.

In this episode of Billable Banter, the Ballantyne Law team unpacks what happens when a beneficiary doesn't survive the will-maker, using the reported passing of Gene Hackman and his wife as a real-world example. We explain how the Succession Act and common will clauses handle these situations, what happens if no backup beneficiaries are named, and why it's crucial to plan for the "what ifs"—especially in blended families or complex estates. Whether you're reviewing your will or creating one for the first time, this is a must-listen for anyone thinking ahead. 

I had a great chat with Sidnee, Associate at Ballantyne Law, about a recent case where a buyer lost $98,500 plus legal costs—just for being three days late on a deposit payment.

Sidnee explained why strict contract deadlines matter and how failing to meet them can lead to termination and deposit forfeiture. One key takeaway is that a real estate agent does not have the authority to vary contract terms on behalf of the seller, and relying on their assurances can be a costly mistake.

For anyone involved in property transactions, this case is a reminder to check bank transfer limits, negotiate practical deposit terms, and seek legal advice before signing a contract.

Sidnee manages Ballantyne Law’s property team and also works in the firm’s commercial and estate planning divisions. She is on the board of the Southport Chamber of Commerce and has been a guest lecturer at Griffith University’s School of Business and Economics on estate planning. Originally from New Zealand, she has called the Gold Coast home since 2011 and enjoys spending time along Currumbin Beach and exploring Palm Beach and Burleigh.