 Why We Verify Your Identity
Verification of Identity (VOI) helps ensure that the person giving instructions or signing documents is genuinely who they say they are. This reduces the risk of identity theft and property fraud and helps protect you, your assets, and the integrity of your matter. In Queensland, lawyers are required to take “reasonable steps” to verify a client’s identity, particularly in property transactions and matters involving registry documents. VOI is a common and accepted way of meeting these obligations. VOI itself does not confirm your authority to act (for example, as an attorney or company director). Additional checks may be required. Meet Leah Harms, Associate4/8/2026  Leah is experienced in managing complex personal injury claims and is committed to providing professional services to her clients.
Leah has been working for personal injury firms for 16 years, and was admitted as a solicitor in 2020. Leah prides herself on making the personal injury claim process as straightforward and easy to understand as possible for her clients. Leah’s qualifications and affiliations include:
Meet Kelsie Condon, Senior Associate20/7/2026  Kelsie is a North Queensland local who completed her Bachelor of Laws in Townsville at James Cook University. She grew up on a cattle property and attended boarding school in Charters Towers. Kelsie's background as a bush kid with a family of graziers encourages her to provide legal services to those in the North with an understanding of the unique challenges faced by clients from this region.
New Requirements8/7/2026  You may notice that we're asking for a little more information than we have in the past.
From 1 July 2026, Australian law requires law firms to verify the identity of clients and, in some cases, collect additional information before providing certain legal services. These new requirements are part of Australia's efforts to combat money laundering, terrorism financing and other serious financial crime. Meet Gemma Foot, Paralegal22/6/2026  With a wealth of knowledge and dedication to her role, Gemma is committed to providing excellent support and paralegal assistance to the legal practitioners at Arthur Browne & Associates.
Gemma is currently studying Law and Business (Management) at James Cook University, aiming to become a fully qualified lawyer. When she is not working or studying, Gemma is an avid reader and loves to travel abroad.  Recent Federal Government announcements suggest testamentary trusts will be exempt from the proposed 30% minimum tax on discretionary trusts. For families using testamentary trusts as part of their estate planning, this is welcome news.
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