Townsville Lawyers providing trusted legal advice
across North Queensland for over 130 years.
Compensation Law
Compensation Law
Includes personal compensation claims, superannuation claims and professional negligence claims.
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Family Law
Family Law
Includes separation, divorce, property settlements, children and domestic violence.
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Wills & Estates
Wills & Estates
Includes Estate Administration, Estate Litigation and Estate Planning.
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Property, Development & Leasing Law
Property, Development & Leasing Law
Includes property, body corporate, land subdivisions, unit developments, mortgages, securities, rural and town planning matters.
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Criminal Law
Criminal Law
Our criminal lawyers will assist with traffic offences, domestic violence and white-collar crimes.
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Conveyancing
Conveyancing
Includes residential sales and purchases
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Business Services & Employment Law
Business Services & Employment Law
Business and commercial law including business sales and acquisitions, leasing, employment and industrial relations law, maritime law, PPSA matters, company incorporations and trust establishments.
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Commercial Litigation
Commercial Litigation
Includes debt recovery, business disputes, building and construction, insolvency, environmental offences and town planning appeals.
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Leading Lawyers Townsville
Sometimes, all you need is a fresh perspective. Connolly Suthers are North Queensland’s most experienced and qualified law firm. Established in 1895 with a foundation of leading Townsville lawyers, Connolly Suthers has since become one of North Queensland’s largest, most diverse, and dynamic firms.
Employing a range of expert Queensland lawyers who offer specialist legal advice, Connolly Suthers comprises a team of individual talents working under collective energy. Originating from Townsville Connolly Suthers deliver Queensland’s highest standards of legal help, advice, and services.
We work under the belief that strong reputations don't go unnoticed, and this is why our firm has continued to successfully service the legal needs of North Queenslanders for over 130 years. Work with a law firm that understands you and prioritises your needs – work with Connolly Suthers.
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Is It Legal to Record a Conversation in QLD?
In Queensland, the legality of a recorded conversation depends on whether the parties have provided consent, how it was recorded, and who recorded it. Whether you are considering recording a conversation for legal protection or as a future reference to quote verbatim, it’s important to understand how the law applies to the recording. In cases where the involved parties have given consent, recording a conversation is legal. This applies across all states and territories in Australia. However, each state treats secret recordings of conversations (without consent) differently. Is It Legal to Record a Conversation Secretly in QLD? In Queensland, you can record a conversation without the other party knowing as long as you are a participant in the conversation. The Invasion of Privacy Act 1971 (QLD) infers that you can record a conversation, as long as you are part of the conversation This law does not allow you to record conversations between other people. Doing so is illegal, even if the conversation contains matters you are concerned with. While it may be legal to record a conversation secretly in Queensland (as long as you are a participant), state law will restrict how the recording can be used or distributed. Recordings of any conversation, made with or without the consent of other parties, cannot be published or shared with a third party without the consent of all participants. The only legal exceptions to this rule are when the recordings are shared in a legal proceeding or are necessary to protect one’s lawful interests. The court will determine whether it is reasonable to share a recorded conversation with third parties. Can You Record Telephone Conversations in QLD? Yes - technically you can record telephone conversations, if you are participating in the conversation. The state law on recording conversations applies to telephone calls between parties in Queensland. However, the laws on recording interstate call conversations are not as clear due to how other states treat personal privacy. For example, in New South Wales, it is illegal to record a conversation without the consent of all parties, even if you are an active participant. It may not be legal to record a telephone conversation between someone in Queensland and New South Wales, depending on which state laws apply. Legal experts advise erring on the side of caution by seeking consent before recording. Certain phone applications allow calls to be recorded; Queensland law also applies to such recordings, including those made via device speakerphone. Can You Record a Workplace Conversation? It may be legal to record a private conversation in Queensland when you are a participant; however, recording in a workplace setting may result in breaches of trust and confidentiality. Workplaces are bound by additional codes of conduct and internal policies that often prohibit the recording of private conversations without consent. Employees who breach these policies can face dismissal. This outcome is also supported by the Fair Work Commission (FWC), which rules that secretly recording conversations erodes the relationship between employees and employers. One of the most common reasons for recording workplace conversations is to obtain evidence of bullying, discrimination, or unfair dismissal. However, the FWC has historically placed little value on such recordings due to their secretive nature - secret recordings are considered unfair to other participants who "have no opportunity to choose their words carefully". Instead, the FWC encourages employees to seek other ways of keeping records to support a claim, such as taking notes or bringing in a third party as a witness. If you are planning to record a conversation in Queensland or have a recorded conversation that can support a legal claim, we encourage you to seek legal advice from our lawyers in Townsville and Ayr before taking any action. It is a criminal offence to share recordings of a private conversation without the consent of others, and you may face fines of over $6,000 along with a maximum sentence of two years' imprisonment. Contact our Criminal Law team today via (07) 4771 5664 or submit a Criminal Law Enquiry via the form at the end of this page. If your matter relates to workplace issues such as unfair dismissal or bullying, our experienced team of business lawyers can assist you.
Understanding Criminal Records and Convictions in Queensland
Many people are unsure about what a criminal record actually is, when a conviction is recorded, and whether old offences must always be disclosed. These questions often arise when applying for a job, travelling overseas, or applying for licences or security clearances. Queensland law recognises that, whilst criminal convictions can have serious consequences, people are also capable of rehabilitation and moving on from past mistakes. Put simply, not all convictions follow you forever, and not all convictions need to be disclosed in every situation. This article explains how criminal records work in Queensland, including the recording of convictions, spent convictions, and when disclosure is required. What is a criminal record? A criminal record (also known as a criminal history) is an official record kept by police that shows offences for which you have been convicted. This can occur either because you have pleaded guilty or because you were found guilty by a court after a trial. Having a criminal record can have lasting consequences and affect many aspects of your life. Prospective employers may take criminal history into account when making hiring decisions. Convictions can also impact visa applications, international travel, and eligibility for weapons licences or blue cards for working with children. Recording of convictions Whenever a court makes a finding of guilt or accepts a plea of guilty, the offender is convicted.[1] However, the court does not always formally record that conviction. If a conviction is not recorded, it will generally not appear on most criminal history checks. It will, however, still be retained on police databases. If a conviction is formally recorded, it will appear on your criminal history though potentially not forever (see below). In Queensland, courts generally have a discretion to decide whether or not a conviction should be recorded.[2] If a conviction is not recorded, you will generally be allowed to say that you have not been convicted of that offence. There are, however, some exceptions to this non-disclosure rule whereby in some instances you must disclose all convictions (whether or not recorded) (see below). When will a court record a conviction? The decision about whether to record a conviction is governed by section 12 of the Penalties and Sentences Act 1992 (Qld) (the PSA). The court is required to consider all the circumstances of the case, including (but not limited to): the nature of the offence; the offender’s character and age; and the impact that recording a conviction will have on the offender’s economic or social wellbeing, or chances of finding employment.[3] There is no fixed formula. Courts weigh these factors, along with any other relevant considerations, depending on the circumstances of each case.[4] Relevantly, if a court imposes a sentence of imprisonment, whether that sentence is to be served immediately, suspended, or as an intensive correction order, the PSA requires that a conviction be recorded.[5] What is a spent conviction? Even where a conviction is recorded, it does not necessarily remain on your criminal record forever. Under the Criminal Law (Rehabilitation of Offenders) Act 1986 (Qld) (the Act), certain convictions become “spent” after a specified rehabilitation period. Once a conviction is spent, it generally does not appear on most criminal history checks, and you are usually not required to disclose it. In Queensland, the rehabilitation period is generally: 10 years for adult convictions in the District or Supreme Court; or 5 years for other convictions, including those dealt with in the Magistrates Court or committed as a juvenile.[6] The rehabilitation period commences from the date of conviction. For a conviction to become spent, you must not be convicted of further offences during the rehabilitation period. If convicted of another offence, the rehabilitation period will restart from the date of the last conviction. However, minor or “simple” offences do not automatically reset the rehabilitation period unless the court orders otherwise.[7] In Queensland, once the rehabilitation period expires, the conviction is automatically spent (subject to no further conviction). Convictions that cannot become spent Not all convictions are eligible to become spent. Under the Act, a conviction cannot become spent if: the sentence involved imprisonment for more than 30 months, including wholly suspended sentences or immediate release to parole; the conviction was for an offence committed by a corporation (company); or the conviction is for certain excluded offences, for example those requiring ongoing disclosure for specific professions or positions. Convictions that have been quashed or set aside are automatically considered spent.[8] Disclosure obligations and exceptions Where the rehabilitation period for a conviction has expired and the conviction has not been revived, it is lawful to state that you have not been convicted of that offence.[9] In other words, you may lawfully deny the existence of the conviction. This includes under oath or affirmation and even in formal settings such as court proceedings, statutory declarations, or job applications. However, like most things in the law, there are some important exceptions to the non-disclosure rule. Section 9A of the Act lists these exceptions. Certain professions such as solicitors, teachers, police officers, and politicians require disclosure of spent convictions when applying for employment. Penalties for unlawful disclosure It is an offence to contravene any provision of the Act, punishable by up to 100 penalty units ($16,690).[10] This includes disclosing a person’s spent conviction without their consent (unless it is under authority or permit),[11] or considering a person’s spent conviction when assessing their fitness (unless expressly required by law).[12] Summary The law in Queensland relating to criminal convictions and their disclosure can be complex. In many situations, people are asked to disclose their criminal history. Care must be taken to understand exactly what is being asked, particularly where a conviction has not been recorded. In many circumstances, convictions that are not recorded do not need to be disclosed. Some organisations attempt to bypass these rules by framing questions differently. For example, you may be asked whether you have ever “pleaded guilty to” or “been found guilty of” an offence. This is a different question to whether you have a conviction. If you are unsure about your disclosure obligations, it is important to seek legal advice. Get help from a criminal lawyer If you are unsure how your past criminal history may affect your personal and professional life, our experienced Criminal Law team at Connolly Suthers can provide you with expert advice to help you better understand your rights and obligations. Get in touch with us to speak to our Townsville lawyers or learn more about how we can help you. If you have any questions or need assistance, please contact us on (07) 4771 5664 or law@cosu.com.au This article is of a general nature and should not be relied upon as legal advice. If you require further information, advice or assistance for your specific circumstances, please contact Connolly Suthers Lawyers. [1] Criminal Code Act 1899 (Qld) s 1. [2] Penalties and Sentences Act 1992 (Qld) s 12(1). [3] Ibid s 12(2). [4] R v Brown; ex parte Attorney-General [1994] 2 Qd R 182 at 185 (Macrossan CJ). [5] Penalties and Sentences Act 1992 (Qld) ss 111, 143, 152. [6] Criminal Law (Rehabilitation of Offenders) Act 1986 (Qld) s 3. [7] Ibid s 11. [8] Ibid s 5(1). [9] Ibid s 8. [10] Ibid s 12. [11] Ibid s 6. [12] Ibid s 9.
Key Changes to Queensland Domestic and Family Violence Laws Effective 1 January 2026
The commencement of the new year brings significant changes to Queensland’s Domestic and Family Violence (DFV) legislative framework. Many of these reforms are designed to strengthen early intervention and improve protections for victims of domestic violence. We previously discussed several of these anticipated reforms in our 2025 article, Proposed Changes to Queensland Domestic Violence Law – What Do These New Changes Mean? (read here). One of the most notable changes taking effect from 1 January 2026 is the introduction of Police Protection Directions (PPDs). What Is a Police Protection Direction (PPD)? From 1 January 2026, Queensland Police will have the power to issue a Police Protection Direction (PPD) in certain domestic violence situations. A PPD is a legally enforceable direction that sets out conditions a respondent must comply with. Importantly, police can issue a PPD without first applying to the court for a Police Protection Order. Once served, a PPD can remain in force for up to 12 months. Failure to comply with the conditions of a PPD is a criminal offence, and a respondent may be charged for contravening the direction. When Can Police Issue a PPD? A police officer may issue a PPD where they reasonably believe that: The respondent and the aggrieved are in a relevant relationship; The respondent has committed an act of domestic violence against the aggrieved; The PPD is necessary and desirable; and It would not be more appropriate for a protection order application to be made directly to the court. The purpose of PPDs is to allow police—who are often the first responders—to provide immediate protection and support to victims of domestic violence. These directions are intended to streamline the protection process and reduce delays associated with court applications. When Can Police Not Issue a PPD? Although PPDs are designed to simplify the protection process, they are not intended to replace the court system in all cases. Police are prohibited from issuing a PPD in certain circumstances, including where: The aggrieved or respondent is a child or a police officer; The respondent should be taken into custody for the domestic violence incident; There is, or has previously been, a protection order or interstate order between the same parties; There is, or has previously been, a PPD against the respondent; The respondent has been convicted of a domestic violence offence within the past two years; There is an unresolved criminal domestic violence proceeding against the respondent; There is an unresolved application for a protection order before the court; The respondent used, or threatened to use, a weapon or object; Police believe both parties require protection but cannot determine who is most in need; or Police believe a child requires additional protection that cannot be adequately addressed by a PPD. When Does a PPD End? A PPD remains in force for 12 months from the date it is served or verbally issued by police. A PPD may end earlier if: Police or a court revokes the PPD; A Protection Order (DVO) or Police Protection Notice is issued for the same parties; An application for a protection order is filed in court for the same parties; or An application for a protection order is dismissed or adjourned without a temporary protection order being made. What Should You Do If You Are Served With a PPD? If you have been served with a PPD and do not agree with the direction or its conditions, you may seek a review in one of two ways: Police Review Court Review It is essential to obtain legal advice before choosing a review pathway, as each option carries different legal and practical consequences. Police Review A respondent may apply for a police review within 28 days of being served with a PPD. The application must be lodged with the Queensland Police Service using the approved form. If the application is filed outside the 28-day timeframe, an extension must be sought and will be considered at the discretion of the reviewing officer. Following the review, police may decide to: Confirm the PPD; Revoke the PPD with no further action (meaning it is taken never to have existed and will not form part of the respondent’s DV history); Revoke the PPD and issue a new PPD with amended conditions; Revoke the PPD and apply for a protection order or issue a Police Protection Notice; or Take other action under section 100(3) of the Domestic and Family Violence Protection Act. Court Review Alternatively, a respondent may apply to the Magistrates Court for a review of the PPD. During the court review process, the PPD remains in force, and all conditions must be strictly complied with. Once a court review application is filed, police will automatically file the PPD as an application for a protection order against the respondent. The court may then: Make a final protection order (typically for five years); Make a temporary protection order while the matter is determined; or Determine the outcome of the PPD review. In these circumstances, the PPD will end. The court may also: Order that the PPD end on a specified date (remaining on the respondent’s DV history); Set aside the PPD entirely (removing it from the respondent’s DV history); or Dismiss the review application, allowing the PPD to continue. Seek the Right Legal Advice Queensland’s Domestic and Family Violence laws are complex and have undergone substantial reform in recent years. If you have been served with a Police Protection Direction or approached by police regarding a domestic violence matter, obtaining timely legal advice is critical. While the issuance of a PPD or protection order is not itself a criminal offence, breaching the conditions is, and can result in serious criminal consequences. These orders may also impact employment, professional licensing, blue card eligibility, and weapons licences. Contact our Criminal Law team today via (07) 4771 5664 or submit a Criminal Law Enquiry via the form at the end of this page. The team at Connolly Suthers has extensive experience in Domestic and Family Violence matters and regularly appears in the Domestic Violence Specialist Court to assist clients navigating these complex issues.
The Connolly Suthers Difference
At Connolly Suthers, we feel privileged to be entrusted with our client's legal affairs, helping them navigate what is often some of the most challenging times of their lives. Our diverse, talented team has considerable expertise in multiple aspects of law and channel this experience to make a substantial, positive difference in the lives of locals.
We believe that your lawyer should have a significant understanding of how Townsville operates and its underlying cultural systems to provide the most genuine, useful legal advice possible. That’s why we frequently employ experienced legal professionals locally from within North Queensland, possessing a proud history of employing law graduates from James Cook University. Not only does this allow us to give back to the local community, but it only boosts our ability to deliver the most relevant and beneficial legal advice possible.
Our genuine care for the wellbeing of our clients and attention to detail in every case is what sets us apart from other law firms in Queensland. From criminal law to personal injury law, family disputes, property settlements, child custody, and traffic offences, we'll be in your corner, every step of the legal process. If you’re looking for legal support in Townsville, we’re here to make a positive difference in as many lives as possible. Call Connolly Suthers on 07 4771 5664 to get help today.
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Learn MoreFrequently Asked Questions
What legal services do Connolly Suthers offer?
We operate across a range of legal matters including compensation, family, wills & estates, property, conveyancing, business, dispute resolution and criminal law; helping a variety of clients across Queensland to navigate the legal system.
It’s highly likely that you’ll need the services of a lawyer at least once in your lifetime. When you turn to Connolly Suthers for legal assistance, you can be confident that you’ll receive quality legal advice with a personal touch, regardless of which service you require. Our criminal lawyers, family lawyers, and compensation solicitors are here to help with the most common types of legal problems faced in these areas of concern.
Whether you're facing criminal offences, are dealing with a family law matter, looking to file compensation claims, have traffic offences, a domestic violence order, class actions, or just require an experienced team to assure a successful legal outcome, we can provide specialised advice for a wide range of concerns and legal issues.
Whatever type of legal assistance you need, we’re sure to be able to help. At Connolly Suthers, we have considerable experience and knowledge in all aspects of compensation law, family law, wills and estates, property law, criminal law, conveyancing, business services and dispute resolution.
We have Queensland Law Society Accredited Specialists in Property Law, Succession Law, Family law and Personal Injuries Litigation. Combining extensively trained and experienced legal practitioners with state-of-the-art communications and technology, Connolly Suthers delivers an unrivalled level of legal service in the Northern Queensland region. Get in touch with our team today - we're here to provide legal advice for a wide range of legal matters.
Do you offer No-Win, No-Fee?
Yes we offer no-win, no-fee services because we believe that nobody should be denied justice as a result of limited finances. We offer no-win, no-fee services in a range of matters including:
- Traffic accidents
- Workplace accidents
- Public liability accidents
- Medical negligence claims
- Life insurance claims
- Superannuation claims
- Certain commercial disputes
With Connolly Suthers Townsville Lawyers, you get the legal representation that you deserve without the worry of paying legal costs in the event that you lose your case. Our compassionate, friendly team understand the value of excellent service when facing a legal problem and a difficult time. Work with the solicitors that understand you and prioritise your needs – work with Connolly Suthers.
How much does representation with Connolly Suthers cost?
All Connolly Suthers clients receive the absolute highest level of quality legal representation and advice available in the region. Generally the cost of our legal services will vary based on the time required for our legal team to work on your case and the extent of the case as a whole, unless it is one of our fixed-fee services.
Regardless, we believe that nobody should be denied justice as a result of limited finances and that’s why we offer no-win, no-fee services in a range of matters including:
- Traffic accidents
- Workplace accidents
- Public liability accidents
- Medical negligence claims
- Life insurance claims
- Superannuation claims
- Certain commercial disputes
With Connolly Suthers Townsville Lawyers, you get the legal representation that you deserve without the worry of paying legal costs in the event that you lose your case. Work with the lawyers that understand you and prioritise your needs – Connolly Suthers.
How do you charge? Will I need to pay upfront? What are your prices like?
Most legal services are charged in accordance with a costs agreement which is provided to you at the commencement of the matter. Usually this must be signed and returned before any work is completed. This includes work done in most areas such as family law, personal injury, large commercial and leasing work, criminal law and estate administration. From your first phone call, your family lawyer, criminal lawyer, personal injury or estate solicitors can walk you through these fees work.
There are fixed price services available for basic conveyancing, wills and enduring powers of attorney. No nasty surprises - just a team who are committed to the best outcome. Please contact our office for more information about these services.
Do you offer payment plans?
Generally, no. However, you should feel free to discuss your financial situation with the solicitor involved with your case, at your initial appointment at Connolly Suthers. We understand that moving through the legal system can get expensive - from your first phone call, our compassionate team will openly discuss fees and work in your best interests, in a timely manner, to achieve a positive outcome.
Do you certify documents? Do you have JPs available?
We usually only certify documents for clients of Connolly Suthers or in the course of matters in which we are involved. If you are looking to find a JP you can search for one here.
Do you hold relatives' documents in safe custody? What can you hold in safe custody?
For client's of Connolly Suthers we offer the service of storing in our safe custody original Wills, Enduring Powers of Attorney, Certificates of Title, etc.
How are you involved with the Townsville Community?
The partners and staff of Connolly Suthers have long-standing ties throughout the local community. Over a large number of years we have supported various clubs and sporting teams in Townsville and in the Burdekin. We are regular supporters of Ronald McDonald House and the Vinnies foundation.
Find out more about our contributions to the local community here.
How do I contact Connolly Suthers?
You can call our Townsville QLD office on 07 4771 5664 during business hours.
Alternatively, submit an email enquiry to law@cosu.com.au and the Connolly Suthers team will endeavour to respond to your enquiry within one business day.
Where are your other offices located?
Our offices are located at 416 Flinders Street, Townsville and 180 Queen Street, Ayr.
We visit Cairns, Brisbane and Mount Isa as well as other regions throughout North Queensland by appointment.