Donaldson Law

04/06/2026

The long-awaited Commission of Inquiry report into Queensland's child safety system has now been released. While we are still working through its extensive findings and recommendations, the report's early focus is clear. The system has too often lost sight of its paramount responsibility, the wellbeing and best interests of children and must shift away from compliance-driven processes toward decisions that genuinely prioritise children, including a stronger emphasis on family-based care over residential care. We will continue to navigate and comment on the recommendations made.

🔗 You can read the report here: https://www.childsafetyinquiry.qld.gov.au/

02/06/2026

⚠️ Content warning: This article discusses allegations of child abuse in a sporting context and may be distressing for some readers.

We know this story comes from America, and we are here in Australia, but sport is universal and so is the responsibility to keep children safe.

A recent CBS News article has reported serious allegations involving a gymnastics coach, raising important questions about child safety, reporting concerns and institutional accountability.

For sporting clubs, schools and organisations in Australia, this is a reminder that safeguarding must be more than a policy. Concerns need to be taken seriously, children need to be listened to and safety must always come before reputation.

At Donaldson Law, we understand how difficult it can be to speak up. Survivors and families deserve to know their rights and understand their legal options.

Sport should be a place of confidence, discipline and joy — never fear.💙

If this post causes you distress, we encourage you to seek help. Support is available through 1800RESPECT: 1800 737 732, Lifeline: 13 11 14, and, in an emergency, 000

Sean Gardner, a gymnastics coach who trained elite young girls, will be in federal court in Mississippi on Monday facing 12 felony counts of s*xual exploitation of children.

29/05/2026

Chats, cheers and connection. 🥂

Last Thursday night, Faith, Mia and Talia attended Chats and Cheers, a relaxed networking event hosted through the Young Chamber community in Toowoomba.

Chats and Cheers brings together young professionals in a casual setting to socialise, build genuine connections and catch up outside the usual work environment. Young Chamber provides a platform for emerging professionals and business operators to connect, grow and be part of the broader local business community.

It was a great opportunity to catch up with colleagues, meet new people and enjoy conversations that strengthen both professional and community connections.

25/05/2026

⚠️ **CONTENT WARNING: This article discusses allegations of child s*xual abuse by a former family day care provider and may be distressing for survivors, families and others affected by abuse. Please take care when deciding whether to read.

We acknowledge the courage of those coming forward and remain committed to supporting survivors and families seeking accountability and answers in relation to these deeply serious allegations. 💙

If this post cause you distress, we encourage you to seek help. Support is available through 1800RESPECT: 1800 737 732, Lifeline: 13 11 14, and, in an emergency, 000

CONTENT WARNING: This article refers to child abuse and su***de. For years, parents trusted David Neil Tuck to care for…

20/05/2026

📣 The ASC Restorative Program is closing on 31 December 2026.

Our team understands the ASC Restorative Program and how it applies to former Swimmers who were AIS Scholarship holders between 1990 - 2013.

📞 Contact our team for more information.

14/05/2026

📣 The ASC Restorative Program is closing on 31 December 2026.

Our team understands the ASC Restorative Program and how it applies to former Volleyballers who were AIS Scholarship holders between 1990 - 2013.

📞 Contact our team for more information.

13/05/2026

As part of Mental Health Awareness Week, the team at Donaldson Law took some time last Friday to step away from the day-to-day and reconnect outside the office. 💙

We spent the evening go-karting at Adrenaline Sport having dinner together. A simple reminder of how important it is to make space for connection, laughter, and support within our team.

Working in the legal industry, particularly in areas where exposure to difficult and traumatic matters can be part of the role and we recognise the importance of actively supporting not only our client’s but our own wellbeing and helping manage the impacts of vicarious trauma (VT).
Moments like these are more than just social events.They are part of creating a supportive workplace culture where our people feel valued, connected, and cared for.

Check out the fun we had.🏎️🏁

11/05/2026

💚 Mental Health Awareness Week 💚

This Mental Health Awareness Week, Donaldson Law encourages everyone to take a moment to prioritise their wellbeing and check in on the people around them.

Mental health challenges can affect anyone, at any stage of life, and sometimes the smallest act of kindness or support can make the biggest difference. Whether it’s reaching out to a friend, taking time to rest, or asking for help when needed, every step toward better mental wellbeing matters.

At Donaldson Law, we are proud to support a community where people feel heard, supported and valued. Together, we can help break the stigma around mental health and encourage open, compassionate conversations.

If you or someone you know is struggling, remember — support is available, and you are never alone. 💚

04/05/2026

Our office is closed today for the Queensland Labour Day Public Holiday.

We reopen tomorrow, Tuesday 5 May and look forward to assisting you then.

01/05/2026

Three States over one very busy week.

Our team has been on the move attending mediations across Australia, while the Toowoomba crew kept everything running smoothly behind the scenes.

Sydney ✔️
Brisbane ✔️
Canberra ✔️

No matter the location, the focus remains the same — providing practical, reliable support to help our clients move forward.

Weeks like this are a great reminder of how fortunate we are to support clients wherever they are. We’re incredibly proud to be able to assist people all across Australia, ensuring they have access to the guidance and representation they need, no matter the location.