In Queensland, your overseas driver’s licence may not be recognised if you have become a permanent resident. Recent changes to the Experienced Driver Recognition (EDR) program mean that drivers from certain countries will now need to pass both a road rules test and a practical driving test to obtain a Queensland driver licence. This change is being implemented across most Australian states and territories, with Queensland’s enforcement starting mid-2025 .

When Your Overseas Licence Is Recognised

If you’re a temporary resident—such as a tourist, student, or working holidaymaker—you can drive in Queensland using your overseas licence. Ensure your licence is in English or accompanied by an English translation or International Driving Permit (IDP). You’re permitted to drive vehicles up to 4.5 tonnes gross vehicle mass and carrying up to 12 people, including the driver .

When You Must Obtain a Queensland Licence

If you’re a permanent resident—either an Australian citizen or a holder of a resident visa—and have lived in Queensland for 3 months or more, you are required to transfer to a Queensland driver licence. This applies even if you’re from a country that previously had an agreement allowing direct licence conversion .

Licence Transfer Requirements

To transfer your overseas licence to a Queensland licence, you’ll need to:

Provide your overseas licence and an English translation or IDP if applicable.

Submit original identity documents and proof of Queensland residency.

Declare your medical fitness to drive; a medical certificate may be required if you have a condition affecting your ability to drive safely.

Pass a road rules test and a practical driving test, unless exempted.

Pay the applicable fees .

Some countries have agreements with Queensland that allow for direct licence conversion without additional testing. These include:

New Zealand, Austria, Belgium, Canada, France, Germany, Ireland, Japan, Netherlands, United Kingdom and the United States (excluding external territories)

For or all your Immigration queries , talk to Phoenix Law & Associates – here for all your Brisbane Legal Needs. We are immigration, personal injury, business, family and home conveyancing law experts. We speak YOUR LANGUAGE . Call 1800GETHELP or see anytime.  Level 8, 320 Adelaide St, Brisbane. #JapaneseLawyers #BusinessLaw #HomeConveyancing #Brisbane #family #Australia #Conveyancing #BrisbaneLawyers  https://www.phoenix-law.com.au/

Get to know Brisbane on the BRISBANE SCAVENGER HUNT walking tour through Brisbane’s South Bank, see the Wheel of Brisbane, check out historical relics, and finish off with Queensland Art Gallery art. See nature fit for royalty. Slow down at the Nepalese Peace Pagoda and enjoy the shade of the bougainvillea. The water is warm, and the birds are calling. Suitable for all ages; 1.5 hour duration, 1.92km phone App guided walking tour.  

Got TRAIN LOVING kids? – The Queensland Museum Rail Workshops will be open on Easter Sunday 2025!  We love taking our little locomotive drivers here. The museum has interactive fun activities for kids of all ages. Check out the Sciencentre, displays and vintage trains and the indoor playground. 160 years ago, the very first train to run in Queensland steamed west from the Ipswich Railway Workshops to the small settlement at Grandchester!

See the EASTER BUNNY 🐰at Caboolture, Redcliffe, Newport, Sandstone Point, Everton Park, Mount Gravatt , Mooloolaba and more …

Enjoy sweet treats and Easter fun for the whole family.  With thanks to Brisbane Kids for the following information;

🐰 Candyland Putt Putt @ Victoria park

Step into a world of colourful, candy-themed fairways and sweet surprises! This fun-filled mini-golf adventure is perfect for all ages, making it a great day out with family and friends. Plus, the Easter Bunny will be stopping by to add to the excitement!

When: Friday 18th – Monday 21st April

Where: Victoria Park, Herston

Details: Bookings required

More information: https://brisbanekids.com.au/event/candyland-putt-putt-victoria-park/

🐰 Caboolture Easter Carnival

Families of all ages are invited to celebrate Easter at the Easter Carnival! Children will delight in games, face painting, an Easter egg hunt, and thrilling carnival rides that promise endless entertainment. Adults can savour tasty offerings from food stalls, browse unique market treasures, and enjoy the vibrant carnival atmosphere.

When: Friday 18th April 2025, from 11am

Where: Caboolture Showgrounds, 140 Beerburrum Rd , Caboolture

Details: Free event

Find out more here https://brisbanekids.com.au/event/caboolture-easter-festival/

🐰 Redcliffe Easter Markets

Promising an egg-ceptional Easter celebration on both Good Friday and Easter Sunday, Redcliffe Markets promises everyone a hopping good time as the market transforms into an Easter wonderland (including an Easter Bunny meet and greet).

When: Friday 18th & Sunday 20th April

Where: Redcliffe Parade, Redcliffe

Details: Free

More information: https://brisbanekids.com.au/series/redcliffe-easter-markets/

🐰Meet the Easter Bunny at Tom’s Confectionary Warehouse

Meet the Easter Bunny himself every weekend until Easter at Tom’s and have you photo taken with The Easter Bunny!

When: 18th – 20th April, 10am – 12pm

Where: Tom’s Confectionary Warehouse, 4/358 Nudgee Rd, Hendra

Details: Free event

More information: Easter Bunny at Tom’s Confectionary Warehouse

🐰 Newport Easter Twilight Market

Hop into the Newport Easter Twilight Market for a festive evening of family fun! Enjoy a free Easter Egg Treasure Hunt, a meet and greet with the Easter Bunny, and live entertainment. Browse artisan stalls, grab a bite from food trucks, and soak up the Easter magic at this vibrant community event!

When: Saturday 19th April 2025, 12pm – 6pm

Where: Endeavour Park, Endeavour Esplanade, Newport  4020

Details: Free entry

More information: Newport Easter Twilight Market

🐰 Reval’s Easter Eggstravaganza

Enjoy a free Easter Egg Hunt, a visit from the Easter Bunny, and plenty of entertainment. Kids can bounce on the jumping castle, get their faces painted, and join fun games, while free hot cross buns and food trucks will keep everyone fuelled.

When: Saturday 19th April, from 3pm. Egg hunt at 5pm

Where: Mount Gravatt Park, Upper Mount Gravatt

We love Brisbane too !

Phoenix Law & Associates – here for all your Brisbane Legal Needs. We are immigration, personal injury, business, family and home conveyancing law experts. We speak YOUR LANGUAGE . Call 1800GETHELP or see https://www.phoenix-law.com.au/ anytime.  Level 8, 320 Adelaide St, Brisbane. #JapaneseLawyers #BusinessLaw #HomeConveyancing #Brisbane #family #Australia #Chinese #Conveyancing #BrisbaneLawyers

The Australian migration system is widely regarded as one of the most robust and well-structured immigration systems globally. It is designed to attract skilled migrants, address labor market needs, reunite families, and contribute to the country’s economic growth and cultural diversity.

Here’s a general overview of key aspects of the Australian migration system:

  1. Points-Based System:

Australia operates a points-based immigration system, where applicants are assessed based on factors such as age, English language proficiency, education, work experience, and other relevant skills. The points system aims to prioritize individuals who can contribute to the Australian economy and society.

  1. Skilled Migration Pathways:

Skilled migration is a cornerstone of the Australian migration system. Skilled workers can apply for visas such as the Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189), Skilled Nominated Visa (subclass 190), and Skilled Regional Visa (subclass 491). These visas allow skilled individuals to live and work in Australia permanently or temporarily, depending on the visa subclass.

  1. Employer-Sponsored Visas:

Employer-sponsored visas enable Australian employers to sponsor skilled workers from overseas to fill specific positions that cannot be filled by Australian citizens or permanent residents. Common employer-sponsored visas include the Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) Visa (subclass 482) and the Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) Visa (subclass 186).

  1. Family Migration: Australia also offers pathways for family migration, allowing Australian citizens, permanent residents, and eligible New Zealand citizens to sponsor their family members to live in Australia. Family visas include partner visas, parent visas, and child visas, among others.
  1. Humanitarian and Refugee Program: Australia has a longstanding commitment to humanitarian principles and provides protection to refugees and displaced persons through its Humanitarian and Refugee Program. This program includes visas for refugees, humanitarian entrants, and those in need of humanitarian assistance.
  1. Temporary Visas: In addition to permanent migration pathways, Australia offers various temporary visas for individuals seeking to visit, work, study, or conduct business in the country temporarily. Temporary visas include visitor visas, student visas, and work visas such as the Temporary Work (Skilled) Visa (subclass 457) and the Working Holiday Visa (subclass 417/462).
  1. Migration Policies and Regulations: The Australian migration system is governed by a comprehensive set of policies, regulations, and legislation administered by the Department of Home Affairs. These regulations are periodically reviewed and updated to reflect changing economic, social, and political priorities.
  1. Compliance and Enforcement: Australia has strict compliance and enforcement measures in place to ensure the integrity of its migration system. This includes monitoring visa holders’ compliance with visa conditions, conducting audits of sponsoring employers, and taking enforcement action against individuals or businesses that breach migration laws.

Overall, the Australian migration system is characterised by its emphasis on skilled migration, family reunification, humanitarian principles, and temporary mobility. It reflects Australia’s commitment to attracting talented individuals, fostering multiculturalism, and contributing to the country’s prosperity and well-being.

Contact Phoenix Law & Associates to discuss your matter with an experienced migration lawyer. Phoenix Law & Associates SPEAK YOUR LANGUAGE – https://www.phoenix-law.com.au/ Call 1800GETHELP.  Level 8, 320 Adelaide St, Brisbane #BrisbaneLawyers #japaneselawyers #ChineseSpeakingLawyers #conveyancingbrisbane #BusinessLaw #FamilyLaw #family #AustraliaVisa #romanian

It’s important they stay safe on the road.

RACQ has launched a thought-provoking road safety campaign to raise awareness of the disproportionate number of men killed on the State’s roads. With three times more males dying on Queensland roads than females*, RACQ’s Blooms for Blokes campaign urges people to reach out to the men in their lives and remind them why it’s important they stay safe on the road.

RACQ’s General Manager Advocacy Joshua Cooney said the campaign kicked off in Brisbane’s Queen Street Mall on 22 August as part of Queensland Road Safety Week.“Blooms for Blokes centres on the idea that too often, the first time men receive flowers is at their funeral,” Mr Cooney said.

“We want to invite Queenslanders to gift the men in their lives a flower while they’re alive, tell them how much they’d be missed if they were gone, and motivate them to be safe on the road. In the past five years 995 males died on Queensland roads, compared to 317 females, so we need men to rethink their driving behaviour and stay safe for their loved ones.”

“We believe there are a range of factors driving the statistics.”

“Generally, men are more likely to engage in risky behaviour which significantly increases the chance of a serious crash. Men are also more likely to be behind the wheel of a heavy vehicle or riding a motorcycle and these are two groups that make up a significant proportion of the road toll.

“In the Queen Street Mall, one of our RACQ vintage patrols was filled with 995 flowers to represent the male road toll. People were urged to collect a flower, sign a Blooms for Blokes card and gift it to a man to remind them to stay safe behind the wheel.”

Last year, Queensland recorded its worst road toll in 13 years with 297 people killed. It was the highest of any state or territory in Australia.

The Blooms for Blokes campaign was rolled out across Queensland with flowers and cards available to collect from all RACQ stores during Queensland Road Safety Week, and billboards amplifying the message in Brisbane, the Gold Coast, Gladstone and Mackay.

A dedicated Blooms for Blokes landing page allows people to send a virtual card to their loved ones and spread the road safety message.

*Department of Transport and Main Roads data from 1 January 2018 – 31 December 2022.

“I was shocked and panicked when I had a car accident, and I wasn’t sure what would happen next. I felt my lawyers were always there to help and they were warm and friendly. This was a big help to me and my family. Thanks a lot! I would strongly recommend Phoenix Lawyers to anyone who gets in an unexpected accident. You must call them to help your case.”

#accidentlawyer #injuryaccident lawyers #personalinjurylawyersBrisbane #caraccidentlawyerBrisbane

Story and photo Credit to RACQ

Japan joined the Hague Convention in 2014. Since then, it has worked to handle international child abduction cases according to the Convention’s rules. The Japanese Central Authority helps parents through the process of applying for their child’s return and provides support during legal proceedings.

Challenges

Even though the Hague Convention is helpful, there are challenges:

1. Enforcement Sometimes, countries struggle to enforce the Convention’s rules, especially if local laws differ.

2. Long Legal Battles Court cases can take a long time, causing stress for children and parents.

3. Emotional Impact Returning a child to their home country can be difficult emotionally, especially if they have settled in the new country.

4. Non-Signatory Countries The Convention only applies to countries that have agreed to it. Cases involving countries that haven’t joined can be much harder to resolve.

Notable Cases in Japan

One example involves a Japanese mother who took her children to Japan from the U.S. without the father’s permission. Under the Hague Convention, the father applied for their return. The Japanese court decided in favor of returning the children to the U.S., showing Japan’s commitment to the Convention.

Conclusion

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is essential for dealing with international child abduction cases. By providing a process for the quick return of children and respecting custody decisions, the Convention helps protect children’s welfare. Japan’s participation in the Convention shows its dedication to resolving these difficult cases and supporting affected families.

International child abduction is a heart-wrenching issue affecting countless families worldwide. In an increasingly interconnected world, it has become imperative to address cross-border disputes involving the wrongful removal or retention of children.

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction, often referred to simply as the Hague Convention, plays a crucial role in these cases, providing a legal framework for the prompt return of abducted children to their country of habitual residence.

The Hague Convention: An Overview

The Hague Convention was concluded on October 25, 1980, under the auspices of the Hague Conference on Private International Law. The primary aim of the Convention is to protect children from the harmful effects of international abduction by a parent or guardian and to secure their prompt return to their country of habitual residence. As of 2023, over 100 countries are parties to the Convention, demonstrating its global acceptance and importance.

Objectives of the Hague Convention

  1. Prompt Return of the Child: The Convention seeks to ensure the swift return of abducted children to their habitual residence, thereby restoring the status quo before the abduction occurred.
  2. Protecting Custody Rights: By providing a legal mechanism for the return of abducted children, the Convention reinforces respect for custody arrangements and parental rights as determined by the child’s habitual residence.
  3. Preventing Forum Shopping: The Convention aims to prevent parents from seeking a more favorable legal jurisdiction by wrongfully removing or retaining their child in another country.

Mechanisms and Procedures

The Hague Convention sets forth a clear procedure for the return of an abducted child:

  1. Central Authorities: Each signatory country must designate a Central Authority to handle applications under the Convention. The Central Authority assists in locating the child, facilitating voluntary returns, and providing legal assistance.
  2. Application Process: A parent or guardian seeking the return of an abducted child can submit an application to the Central Authority of either the child’s habitual residence or the country where the child has been taken.
  3. Judicial Proceedings: If voluntary return is not possible, the case is brought before the judiciary in the country where the child is located. The court must determine whether the child was wrongfully removed or retained and whether any exceptions to the return apply.
  4. Exceptions to Return: The Convention provides specific grounds on which a court may refuse to order the return of a child, including the risk of physical or psychological harm to the child, the child’s objections if they are of sufficient age and maturity, and if the return would violate fundamental principles relating to the protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms.

Challenges and Criticisms

While the Hague Convention has been instrumental in addressing international child abduction, it is not without challenges:

  1. Compliance and Enforcement: Ensuring compliance with the Convention’s provisions can be difficult, particularly in countries with less developed legal systems or where the Convention’s principles conflict with local laws and customs.
  2. Prolonged Legal Battles: In some cases, legal proceedings under the Convention can become protracted, leading to extended periods of uncertainty and distress for both the child and the parents involved.
  3. Psychological Impact: The process of returning a child to their habitual residence can be traumatic, especially if the child has developed significant ties in the new country.
  4. Non-Signatory Countries: The Convention’s effectiveness is limited to signatory countries. Cases involving non-signatory countries can be more complex and harder to resolve.

Notable Cases

Several high-profile cases have highlighted the complexities and emotional toll of international child abduction:

  1. Elian Gonzalez Case: Although not directly under the Hague Convention, the Elian Gonzalez case in 2000 drew international attention. Elian, a Cuban boy, was found in Florida after his mother drowned during their attempt to reach the United States. A custody battle ensued between his relatives in Miami and his father in Cuba, culminating in Elian’s return to Cuba.
  2. David Goldman Case: In 2009, David Goldman was reunited with his son Sean after a five-year legal battle. Sean was taken to Brazil by his mother, who subsequently passed away. The case highlighted the challenges of navigating international legal systems and the importance of the Hague Convention. Conclusion

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction remains a vital tool in addressing the complexities of international child abduction. By providing a legal framework for the prompt return of abducted children and reinforcing respect for custody arrangements, the Convention seeks to mitigate the devastating impact of child abduction on families. However, ongoing efforts to improve compliance, address legal challenges, and support affected families are essential to ensure the Convention’s continued effectiveness and humanitarian impact.

Phoenix Law & Associates are specialists in family and migration law, and can help you at a distressing time. Phoenix Law & Associates speak many languages fluently. Call 1800GETHELP. Level 16, 300 Adelaide St, Brisbane #JapaneseLawyers #BrisbaneLawyers #Urdu #Hindi #Pashtu #Mandarin #Cantonese #Korean #Japanese #Portuguese #Romanian #FamilyLaw #spanish #migrationlaw #HagueConvention

The Hague Convention is in force between Australia and the following countries:
• Albania
• Argentina
• Armenia
• Austria
• Bahamas
• Belarus
• Belgium
• Belize
• Bosnia and Herzegovina
• Brazil
• Bulgaria
• Burkina Faso
• Canada
• Chile
• Colombia
• Costa Rica
• Croatia
• Cyprus
• Czech Republic
• Denmark
• Dominican Republic
• Ecuador
• El Salvador
• Estonia
• Fiji
• Finland
• France
• Georgia
• Germany
• Greece
• Guatemala
• Honduras
• Hong Kong (China)
• Hungary
• Iceland
• Ireland
• Israel
• Italy
• Japan
• Latvia
• Lithuania
• Luxembourg
• Macau (China)
• Malta
• Mauritius
• Mexico
• Moldova, Republic of
• Monaco
• Montenegro
• Netherlands
• New Zealand
• Nicaragua
• Norway
• Panama
• Paraguay
• Peru
• Poland
• Portugal
• Republic of Korea (from 1 June 2015)
• Romania
• Saint Kitts and Nevis
• San Marino
• Serbia
• Singapore
• Slovakia
• Slovenia
• South Africa
• Spain
• Sri Lanka
• Sweden
• Switzerland
• Thailand
• The Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia (FYROM)
• Trinidad and Tobago
• Turkey
• Turkmenistan
• Ukraine
• United Kingdom
• United States of America
• Uruguay
• Uzbekistan
• Venezuela
• Zimbabwe.

重要なお知らせ：2024年7月1日からビザ条件8107、8607、および8608に変更が適用されます！

オーストラリア政府は、特定のビザを保有している労働者の権利と生産性を向上させるために、ビザ条件8107、8607、および8608に重要な変更を加えます。以下は、2024年7月1日から適用される主要な更新情報です。

施工開始日:　2024年7月1日**

対象ビザ

  • 一時就労（技能）ビザ（サブクラス457）
  • 一時技能不足ビザ（サブクラス482）
  • 技能雇用主スポンサー地方（暫定）ビザ（サブクラス494）

主な変更点

就職移行期間の延長:
スポンサーとなる雇用主との雇用が終了したビザ保持者は、新しい雇用主を見つけるか、他のビザを申請するか、オーストラリアを出国するための手配をするための期間が延長されます。具体的には、

  • 一度に最長180日間、または
  • ビザの有効期間内で最大365日間

柔軟な就労:
移行期間中、ビザ保持者はスポンサー以外の他の雇用主のために働くことができ、関連するノミネーション申請における職種として選択されていない職業でも働くことができます。この変更により、ビザ保持者は新しいスポンサーやビザの手配をする間も雇用を維持するための柔軟性が提供されます。

スポンサーの通知:
スポンサーは、ビザ保持者の辞職やスポンサーシップの終了など、重要な変更があった場合、28日以内に当局に通知する必要があります。これにより、当局はビザ保持者の現在の雇用状況を常に把握することができます。

職業の一貫性:
ビザ保持者は、現在のスポンサーの下で働く間、指定された職種に留まらなければなりません。また、職種に関連する必要なライセンスや登録を守る必要があります。これにより、ビザ保持者がその分野の仕事で必要とされる専門的な技術基準を維持することが保証されます。

適用範囲:
これらの変更は、既存のビザ保持者と2024年7月1日以降にビザを取得する人の両方に適用されます。特に、2024年7月1日以前にスポンサーとの雇用を終了した期間は、新しい期間には含まれません。

これらの更新は、現在のオーストラリアの労働市場（労働力不足）を反映し、しかも特定のビザ保有者のビザ条件における重要な変化を意味し、ビザ保持者に対してより多くの柔軟性と安全性を提供する一方で、スポンサーがその義務を果たすことを確保することとなります。ご自身のビザがこの変更条件の適用範囲内であるかどうか等、ビザに関するご質問は当所まで。

Important Update: Changes to Visa Conditions 8107, 8607, and 8608 Starting 1 July 2024

The Australian Government has implemented significant changes to visa conditions 8107, 8607, and 8608, aimed at enhancing worker rights and productivity. Here’s an overview of the key updates that took effect from 1 July 2024:

Effective Date:
1 July 2024

Impacted Visas:

Temporary Work (Skilled) visa (subclass 457)

Temporary Skill Shortage visa (subclass 482)

Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (provisional) visa (subclass 494) Key Changes:

Extended Time for Job Transition:
Visa holders who cease employment with their sponsoring employer now have increased flexibility to secure new employment or make alternative arrangements. They will have:

  • Up to 180 days at a time, or
  • A maximum of 365 days in total across the visa grant period

During this time, they can find a new sponsor, apply for a different visa, or arrange to depart Australia.

Work Flexibility:
During the transition period, visa holders can work for other employers, including in occupations not listed in their most recent sponsorship nomination. This change provides greater flexibility for visa holders to maintain employment while they secure a new sponsorship or visa arrangement.

Sponsor Notification:
Sponsors must inform the Department of any significant changes within 28 days. This includes situations where a visa holder resigns or when the sponsorship arrangement ceases. This ensures the Department is kept up-to-date with the current employment status of the visa holder.

Occupational Consistency:
Visa holders must remain in their nominated occupation while working for their current sponsor. They must also adhere to any required licenses or registrations relevant to their occupation. This requirement ensures that visa holders maintain the professional standards expected in their field.

Applicability:
These changes apply to both existing visa holders and those granted visas on or after 1 July 2024. Importantly, any periods during which a visa holder ceased working for their sponsor before 1 July 2024 will not count towards the new time periods.

Conclusion:
These updates represent a significant shift in visa conditions, providing greater flexibility and security for visa holders while ensuring sponsors meet their obligations. The extended time for job transition and increased work flexibility will likely be welcomed by many visa holders, offering them more time and options to secure their future in Australia.

It’s not always easy to gain an Australian Visa, so you do need expert advice – if there is a way we will find it. Phoenix Law & Associates speak Japanese fluently – and many other languages. Call 1800GETHELP. Level 8 , 300 Adelaide St, Brisbane #homeconveyancing #JapaneseLawyers #BrisbaneLawyers #Urdu #Hindi #Pashtu #Mandarin #Cantonese #Korean #Japanese #Portuguese #Romanian #FamilyLaw #spanish #immigration

Two heavyweight Asian Baseball teams delighted Brisbane baseball players and fans at Carina last Saturday. They enjoyed the display of outstanding skills and great sportsmanship, as Brisbane Samurai Japan defeated the Taiwan National Travelling Team 12-3 .

A huge crowd and many VIPs including Mr William Fan gathered at Carina Leagues Redsox Baseball Field.

We welcomed these distinguished guests ;
William FAN, the Director general of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office Brisbane,
Charles OU YANG, the Director of Queensland Taiwan Centre,
Phyllis LO, Commissioner, Overseas Community Affairs Council, Taiwan
Anita HUANG, the president of Australian Taiwanese Chamber of Commerce Queensland.
Koda CHEN, the President of TAIWAN FRIENDSHIP ASSOCIATION OF QUEENSLAND.
Grace YU, the Brisbane Lord Mayor’s Charitable Trust Ambassador
Mlib Tmetuchl, the President of Palau Major Lague Baseball
Mr Daisei Yamamoto (President of Brisbane Japan Chamber of Commerce and Industry)
Ms Mari Kurita (President of Japanese Club of Brisbane)
Ms Kumi Ikeda (Representative from Brisbane Seinendan)

The main sponsor for this game, @Brisbane Bandits generously provided the prizes for the game MVP, the Best Batter, and Best Pitcher namely:

Brisbane Bandits Game MVP – Masahiro Takahashi
Best Batter – Hsiang Wang
Best Pitcher – Ken Yoshida
Congratulations to these players!

The game was a great opener for the QLD Baseball season. Now our Brisbane Bandits are returning to Viticon Stadium on Thursday, 21 November 2024. Visit the full details from #ABL25 Bandits schedule #Carinaleagues #BrisbaneBandits #ABL

PHOENIX LAW & ASSOCIATES is a passionate supporter of Brisbane Bandits BASEBALL. Phoenix Law & Associates speak Japanese fluently – and many other languages. Call 1800GETHELP. Level 16, 300 Adelaide St, Brisbane #baseball #BrisbaneBandits #homeconveyancing #JapaneseLawyers #BrisbaneLawyers #Urdu #Hindi #Pashtu #Mandarin #Cantonese #Korean #Japanese #Portuguese #Romanian #FamilyLaw #spanish

If you like being challenged intellectually, whilst being supported by a tight and supportive well-resourced multi-lingual team, where ethical values matter, then consider applying with PHOENIX LAW & ASSOCIATES.

We are looking for a highly skilled and motivated COMMERCIAL LITIGATION LAWYER to join our BRISBANE legal team. Phoenix Law & Associates specialise in commercial disputes, we provide exceptional personalised legal services to our diverse multilingual clientele. This is an exciting opportunity for a talented individual who thrives in a challenging and dynamic environment. Phoenix Law – big firm talent;  small team culture.

Apply to Hideki Shimizu at  info@phoenix-law.com.au  Level 16, 300 Adelaide Street, BRISBANE, QLD #law #commerciallaw #litigator #litigation#team #opportunity #culture #phoenixlaw #qldlaw 

Responsibilities:

•       Handle a wide range of commercial litigation cases, including contract disputes, business torts, intellectual property matters, employment disputes, and other related issues.

•       Conduct thorough legal research and analysis, prepare pleadings, motions, and other legal documents.

•       Represent clients in court proceedings, arbitrations, mediations, and negotiations.

•       Develop and implement effective litigation strategies to achieve favourable outcomes for clients.

•       Provide legal advice and guidance to clients on complex legal matters, ensuring compliance with applicable laws and regulations.

•       Collaborate with colleagues and work as part of a cohesive team to achieve department and firm goals.

•       Stay updated on changes in legislation, case law, and industry trends to effectively counsel clients and provide accurate legal opinions.

We’re aware of the strain litigation can put on our clients, and that’s why we’re committed to delivering timely, favourable results. Join our dynamic team. As a Commercial Litigation Lawyer, you will have the opportunity to make a significant impact, work on complex cases, and collaborate with top legal professionals in the field.

We offer competitive compensation packages and a supportive work environment that fosters professional growth and development. Phoenix Law is an equal opportunity employer. We have a team of multilingual lawyers that celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive and respectful workplace.

How to Apply

APPLY BY EMAIL: info@phoenix-law.com.au . |300 Adelaide Street, BRISBANE, QLD

#law #commerciallaw #litigator #litigation#team #opportunity #culture #phoenixlaw #qldlaw 

Beginning May 10, 2024, prospective students and their guardians aiming to study in Australia will need to meet revised financial capacity requirements. This adjustment comes as part of the Australian government’s efforts to ensure that international students have adequate financial resources to sustain themselves during their studies in the country. The amendment aligns the financial capacity requirement with 75 percent of the national minimum wage, providing a clearer indication of the funds necessary to maintain a basic standard of living while pursuing education in Australia.

Updated financial capacity requirement

The updated financial capacity requirement reflects a consideration for the fact that students spend approximately 25 percent of the year out of course sessions. During this time, they may choose to return to their home countries or engage in unrestricted work opportunities, enabling them to support themselves financially. By recalibrating the financial threshold in this manner, the Australian government aims to empower international students to make informed decisions about their educational journey and mitigate various challenges commonly associated with insufficient financial resources.

One of the primary benefits of the increased financial capacity requirement is the potential reduction in financial distress experienced by international students upon arrival in Australia. Adequate financial preparation ensures that students can meet their living expenses without resorting to excessive work hours, which could otherwise compromise their academic performance and visa compliance. Moreover, the adjustment aims to safeguard students from the risks of exploitation in the workplace, as they are less likely to seek unauthorized employment due to financial pressures.

Increased minimum required funds

The subsequent table will outline the increased minimum required funds necessary to fulfill the financial capacity requirement.

 Financial capacity requirement before 10 May 2024Financial capacity requirement after 10​​ May 2024
primary applicantAUD24,505AUD29,710
spouse or de facto partner of the Student primary applicant (not applicable to Student Guardian applicant)AUD8,574AUD10,394
dependent childAUD3,670AUD4,449
annual school costsAUD9,661AUD13,502
personal annual income if there is no member of the familyAUD72,465AUD87,856
personal annual income where there is a member of the family unitAUD84,543AUD102,500

Table retrieved from Department of Home Affairs Website. https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/news-media/archive/article?itemId=1196

It’s important to note that applications lodged before May 10, 2024, will be assessed based on the financial capacity requirements in effect at the time of application. However, prospective students and their guardians are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the updated requirements to ensure compliance and avoid any potential discrepancies.

In conclusion, the increase in the financial capacity requirement for Australian student visas represents a proactive step towards enhancing the overall well-being and experience of international students studying in the country. By aligning the financial threshold with a proportion of the national minimum wage, the Australian government aims to foster a supportive environment conducive to academic success and personal development for all international students.

For more detailed information, applicants are directed to refer to the Subclass 500 Student visa and Subclass 590 Student Guardian visa guidelines provided by the Australian government. Alternatively, prospective applicants can contact our office by either calling us on 07 3138 0908 or email us at info@phoenix-law.com.au.