5 Aug 2025

Workers compensation medical expenses: coal miners’ rights explained

What medical expenses can I claim after a coal mining injury? If you’re injured while working in or around a coal mine, you may require medical treatment – sometimes for a short period, sometimes for life. Under the NSW Workers Compensation Act, coal miners are entitled to claim the reasonable and necessary costs of medical […]

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. This legal process is often referred to as a ‘family provision claim’. If you believe you have been unfairly treated or excluded from a will, you may be eligible to seek a greater share of the deceased person’s […]

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? You might be entitled to some compensation. 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 personal injury claims […]

1 Oct 2024

Changes to the Police Blue Ribbon Insurance scheme

As of 1 October 2024, significant changes have been implemented affecting the insurance coverage offered to members of the NSW Police Force under their superannuation fund. The former ‘Police Blue Ribbon Insurance’ (PBRI) scheme has been replaced with the ‘Enhanced Police Support Scheme’ (EPSS), which introduces substantial changes to entitlements in the event of a […]