MAY 2025 UPDATE
Vincent Young turns 20
It’s not every day you get to celebrate a milestone birthday. On election night we celebrated two at once – Vincent Young’s 20th and my 60th birthday party.
When I reflect on my journey and that of Vincent Young, it has not been without its challenges. Each chapter of my life and that of VY has been a journey in itself—requiring sometimes painful transformation. In short, my life and that of VY have had similar trajectories comprising troubled beginnings, and some lost opportunities in youth, but a rewarding adulthood.
One of the most profound lessons I’ve learned is that life is not just about the destinations we reach but also the paths we take to get there. It’s about the detours, such as me dabbling in construction for nine years. Those unexpected turns such as studying law, and the moments of stillness of finding the solution that can happen anywhere, even at the bottom of a whiskey bottle or in yoga.
These journeys have taught me to embrace change, to welcome challenges, and to find some joy in everything – even when the proverbial is up to your armpits. Those lessons have helped to forge Vincent Young.
To the night itself – everyone looked fantastic. The food, wine, cheese and service were extraordinary.
There were games, wine and cheese judging and dancing.
If you were there, you already know it was a party like no other. If you missed out, don’t forget to make sure you attend the next Vincent Young function.
The photos tell the story.
Brett Vincent, Founder & Partner Construction
CONSTRUCTION
Representations on who can receive a payment claim
In Fredon Infrastructure Pty Ltd (Fredon) v Hitachi Rail GTS Australia Pty Ltd (Hitachi) [2024] NSWSC 1244, oral representations were made on who can receive a payment claim.
Those representations were held to constitute a conferring of apparent authority under a contract.
COMMERCIAL & INSOLVENCY
The perils of construction and rectification of contracts
The Federal Court decision of ACN 168 479 614 Pty Ltd (formerly known as Steller Developments Pty Ltd) (in liq) (Receivers & Managers appointed) v Smedley, in the matter of ACN 168 479 614 Pty Ltd (No 3) [2025] FCA 132 (Steller Case) examines the principles of construction of a contract and rectification.
It is a salient reminder to take care in drafting documents as the Court will not lightly exercise its powers to correct a document whether by construction or formal rectification.
PROPERTY
Strata Building Bond Increase Delayed to 1 July 2025
Strata Schemes Management Amendment (Strata Bond) Regulation 2024 (NSW)
The increase to the strata building bond from 2% to 3% has been delayed for the fourth time and is about to come into effect on 1 July 2025.
This article recaps what is a strata building bond, explains when it will not take force and why the delay has occurred.
MEET THE TEAM
Venice Leung – Senior Associate
Venice Leung has recently joined Vincent Young as a Senior Associate with our property team.
Venice has over 10 years of experience in property law ranging from simple conveyancing transactions to major complex property acquisitions, disposals, and leasing. Venice explains: ‘I am drawn to the tangible and lasting impact property law has on communities and the intricate legal frameworks that support it. The diversity in property law, from leasing to development and planning, keeps the work dynamic and intellectually stimulating.’
We sit down with Venice to find out more about her background and approach to property law.