Development, Planning & Environment

Whether you need to submit a development application or are appealing a decision made by a regulatory authority on a development application, our experienced Planning and Environment lawyers can assist.

We can provide advice on the permissibility and characterisation of a proposed development and guide you through the development assessment and determination process. If development consent has already been given to a project, we can provide advice about lapsing, conditions and modifications. We also assist interested parties to make submissions on development applications and to seek review of, or challenge the validity of, development decisions.

We can also represent you in the ACAT or the Land and Environment Court of NSW, should you need or wish to appeal a decision (or deemed decision) regarding a development application or consent.

Public authorities have the power to acquire land and interests in land by compulsory acquisition. However, prior to doing so, they are expected to negotiate with land-owners.

We understand that the prospect of your land being acquired can be stressful. If you are negotiating with a public authority for the acquisition of your land or an interest in your land, we can help. We can provide advice as to what rights you have and assist you to negotiate appropriate compensation. If negotiations are unsuccessful, we can represent you in Court.

If you need to escalate a dispute about a development, planning or environmental law matter, we can help. We can provide advice on how to proceed and your prospects of success if you were to take your dispute to the ACAT (in the ACT) or the Land and Environment Court (in NSW). We are often able to resolve disputes through alternative dispute resolution processes. Where that is not possible or desirable, we are comfortable and confident in pursuing matters to a contested hearing.