Information for the legal profession on
COVID-19 outbreak
We will continue to monitor and update the legal profession with the latest news regarding COVID-19.
Cybercrime risk heightened for home-based practitioners
Thank you to the Law Institute of Victoria for this report that discusses how every legal practitioner working from home needs to think carefully about the security of their home-based computer system. More information available here.
Update from the Fair Work Ombudsman
The Fair Work Ombudsman has updated their website with information on COVID-19 and Australian workplace laws. More information available here.
Update from the ACCC
The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission has adjusted the focus of its regulatory activities due to the impact COVID-19 is having on Australian consumers and businesses. Read more.
Eligibility Criteria for JobSeeker Payment Expanded
The government has announced the expansion of the eligibility criteria for JobSeeker Payment to support sole traders and Australians who are self-employed affected by the current pandemic. Read more.
Family Court Matters
The Law Council is urging families to use common sense regarding Family Court matters. Listen to Law Council President, Pauline Wright and member of the Law Council Executive, Caroline Counsel on ABC Radio.
Updates from the Family Court and Federal Circuit Court
The Family Court and the Federal Circuit Court are acutely aware that the current pandemic is having an enormous impact upon families.
The Courts remain open and the Chief Justice the Hon William Alstergren, has today released a clarifying statement addressing concerns parents may have about the ability to comply with parenting orders during these unprecedented times.
This statement can be read here.
The Courts have implemented procedures to primarily conduct business by telephone and videoconferencing when this becomes possible. Only urgent matters will be dealt with in face-to-face hearings or interviews, which will be conducted pursuant to new protocols.
The Courts have provided the below updates and documents.
Updates from the Federal Court
Wherever possible, Court registry services will be provided by telephone or through online services.
The Court has been in communication with all parties with matters listed for hearing in the coming months to identify opportunities for listings to proceed by way of telephone conference or other remote access technology.
In the event that litigants need to attend Court in person, protective measures have been put in place for staff and Court users. Read more.
