Rachel Storey & Associates

06/08/2026

Breaking news: the High Court has found that secret recordings can be used as evidence in domestic violence cases. It is noted that such recordings would not likely show coercive control.

Caution should be exercised as to 'reasonableness' of recordings as 'surveillance' as a tactic in a private home where intimate images may be recorded may also lead to criminal charges or could be indicative of actual coercive control itself.

It will be interesting to see the analysis of the potential implications of this case where the recordings were quite limited and pointed to serious criminal activity against the domestic violence victim.

Stay tuned!

Recordings of private conversations are usually illegal, and experts say the ruling is a major milestone for survivors.

17/07/2026

Please pass this post on to any person (female, male or child) who has a safe or extra phone for this purpose.

Regional women experiencing domestic violence are at high risk of their safe phones being discovered during tests of the new AusAlert disaster warning system.

31/05/2026

Sponsoring the fantastic Nathan in his charity fundraiser for children living with heart conditions. This man operates his own business but cares about neglected homes/gardens for those who are unable to do the work without judgment. He also tidies up public property where a local Council cares little about public works - all on his own dime. We need more Nathans Lawns and Gardens in the world! Best wishes in your walk Nathan! We walk with you in spirit!

10/05/2026

Here is to all the mums out there. Hope you had a great day!

19/02/2026

Office for the arvo. Thanks Esther ###

02/02/2026

Interesting report about racial profiling indicating a major disparity between policing efforts and areas with areas of greater ethnic diversity where crime rates are actually lower.

Great work by Ilo Diaz from the Moonee Valley Legal Service. Have a read:

The Power to Search In Victoria, police possess a sweeping search power, one that allows police to bypass civil liberties and legal protections: Designated Areas. Control of Weapons Act 1990 sets out these powers. Inside these zones, police do not need search warrants, or even "reasonable suspicion"...

22/01/2026

Dear friends, it is business as usual at our offices in Donvale after a fire on Tuesday night devastated three loved and local businesses in Tunstall Square. Some surrounding businesses have been affected by smoke damage but are already up and running - or shortly will be.

Please support local business as we are from, and contribute to, your local community. We love serving you!

Our sincere gratitude to the CFA of Warrandyte and Eltham and the Fire Brigade for containing the risk. We extend our immense sympathy and support to our friends, and their loyal employees, who have now lost their businesses and employment.

09/01/2026

10/12/2025

Take care over the lead up to Christmas. Your family and everyone wants you to arrive safely even if you have incredible dance moves!
https://www.facebook.com/share/r/1AJgLXeXQF/