1. Purpose

The Brief acknowledges the importance of a clear, accessible complaints process, particularly in light of recent reforms to Australia’s defamation laws. This page explains how complaints are received, acknowledged, and managed, and how individuals may exercise their right to be heard within relevant legal timeframes.

This process is intended to support lawful, fair, and proportionate resolution of concerns, while recognising the distinct nature of The Brief as a platform for professionally authored legal commentary.

2. Nature of the Platform

The Brief publishes material authored by qualified legal professionals, attributed to the author, and presented as professional commentary or explanation. The Brief does not operate as a newsroom and does not commission, edit, or endorse the substance of authored material.

Accordingly, complaints are assessed with regard to:

• The role of The Brief as publisher

• The professional capacity in which content is authored

• The applicable legal and ethical obligations governing legal practitioners

3. Right to Raise a Complaint

Any individual or entity who considers that material published on The Brief is inaccurate, unfair, or otherwise raises concern may lodge a complaint.

This includes concerns relating to:

• Alleged defamatory material

• Factual inaccuracy

• Misidentification or attribution issues

• Contextual misunderstanding

Nothing on this page limits any rights available under law.

4. How to Lodge a Complaint

Complaints should be submitted in writing and include:

• The URL or clear identification of the material concerned

• The basis of the complaint, including the specific passages relied upon

• Any relevant context or supporting material

• Contact details for correspondence

Complaints may be submitted via email to: media@thebrieflaw.com.au

5. Acknowledgement and Timeframes

The Brief acknowledges receipt of complaints within a reasonable period.

Where a complaint raises a concern capable of being addressed under Australia’s defamation framework, including the concerns notice process, The Brief will:

• Acknowledge the complaint

• Consider whether it falls within the scope of applicable statutory procedures

• Facilitate appropriate communication where required

Timeframes are managed with reference to legislative requirements and the circumstances of the complaint.

6. Assessment Process

Each complaint is assessed on its own merits, having regard to:

• The content as published

• The professional authorship and attribution

• Any response or clarification provided by the author

• Legal obligations applicable to The Brief

Outcomes may include:

• No action

• Clarification or correction

• Publication of a response or update

• Other steps considered appropriate in the circumstances

The Brief does not guarantee a particular outcome.

7. Role of the Author

Where appropriate, complaints may be referred to the author of the material for consideration or response. Authors remain responsible for the content they publish in their professional capacity.

8. Record and Transparency

The Brief may retain records of complaints and their resolution for compliance, accountability, and legal purposes.

9. External Rights

This complaints process operates independently of, and does not replace, any rights or remedies available under law, including court proceedings or regulatory processes.

10. Contact

For complaints or enquiries regarding this process, please contact: media@thebrieflaw.com.au