5 Aug 2025

Workers compensation medical expenses: coal miners’ rights explained

What medical expenses can I claim after a coal mining injury? Coal miners can claim the reasonable and necessary costs of medical treatment under the NSW Workers Compensation Act. Covered expenses include: These costs are payable as long as they are directly related to the work injury and supported by appropriate medical evidence. For more […]

31 Jul 2025

What does an executor do? A guide to understanding the role

Have you ever been asked by a family member or friend to be the executor of their will? Or when preparing your own will, have you wondered what does an executor do and what their duties involve? It’s an important question – and one that will likely touch all of us in some way. Whether […]

25 Jul 2025

What is industrial deafness?

Industrial deafness – sometimes called boilermakers’ deafness – is hearing loss caused by prolonged exposure to loud noise. It is common in both coal mining and non-coal mining workplaces. Due to the high level of noise exposure in coal mines, this will be the first in a series of articles exploring how to protect your […]

14 Jul 2025

Understanding Power of Attorney NSW and Enduring Guardianship NSW

Many of you know someone who, through injury, age, or disease, cannot manage their financial affairs or health needs. Alternatively, as you approach retirement, your financial advisor might ask: “Have you set up a Power of Attorney NSW and Enduring Guardianship NSW?” You probably thought, “What are they and do I need them?” What is […]

11 Jul 2025

Giving way to emergency vehicles NSW: Your obligations

Have you ever been calmly driving and suddenly heard sirens? You look around and see flashing lights behind you or approaching fast. It’s natural to feel panic or uncertainty, wondering, “Where do I go and what are my obligations when giving way to emergency vehicles NSW?” The law on giving way to emergency vehicles NSW […]

5 Nov 2024

Contesting or challenging wills: your complete guide

Is it possible to challenge a will in NSW? Yes, you can contest a will in Australia.Lawyers often call this legal process a ‘family provision claim’.If a will unfairly treats or excludes you, you can make a ‘family provision claim’ to seek a greater share of the estate. Who can contest a will? Typically, individuals […]

22 Oct 2024

NRL Legend Paul Harragon Partners with Whitelaw McDonald Lawyers

The Paul Harragon Whitelaw McDonald Lawyers Partnership Newcastle, NSW – Whitelaw McDonald Lawyers proudly announces an exciting partnership with NRL legend and Newcastle icon, Paul Harragon. Affectionately known as ‘The Chief’, Paul brings his strong community connections and unwavering dedication to our local firm. This move significantly strengthens our commitment to providing exceptional legal services […]

21 Oct 2024

TPD (Total and Permanent Disability) claims in NSW: a comprehensive guide

What is TPD insurance? TPD stands for Total and Permanent Disability. It’s a type of insurance that provides a lump sum payment if you become totally and permanently disabled due to illness or injury, preventing you from working in any occupation suitable for your training, education, or experience. Notably, the disability does not have to […]

9 Oct 2024

Maximising your medical assessment: tips for NSW personal injury claims

Injured in New South Wales due to someone else’s negligence? Joint tenancy offers families a faster, more secure solution than probate.A crucial step in these personal injury claims is the medical assessment. This post explains everything you need to know about this appointment and how Whitelaw McDonald Lawyers can help. Understanding medical assessments in NSW […]

1 Oct 2024

Changes to the Police Blue Ribbon Insurance scheme

The NSW Police Force has implemented significant changes to its superannuation fund’s insurance coverage as of 1 October 2024.They replaced the Police Blue Ribbon Insurance (PBRI) scheme with the Enhanced Police Support Scheme (EPSS), which substantially changes an officer’s injury entitlements. Working as a member of the NSW Police Force exposes police officers to increased […]