Front-End

Procurement

I work closely with my clients in undertaking a robust risk analysis prior to the tender process and contract execution with the aim of anticipating and reducing the likelihood of disputes arising during project delivery and ensuring that risk is appropriately allocated.

I am often engaged at the project inception stage and at pre-tender review in relation to head contracts, sub-contracts and related commercial contracts.

I understand different contracting models employed in the industry and am experienced in ensuring contracting models meet acceptable risk profiles.

I can provide advice on structuring complex development projects through various corporate arrangements, as well as the sale or lease of completed projects.

Front-End

Contract Administration

Efficient and effective administration of contracts is a hallmark of successful project delivery.

I provide ongoing contract administration services and advice, assisting clients with managing the mechanics of construction contracts, compliance requirements and the related contractual paperwork.

Project Delivery

Risk Management & Dispute Resolution

My contract administration services include the early identification and management of disputes that arise during project delivery.

My focus is on resolving disputes as early as possible.

Where early resolution does not align to my client’s objectives or is otherwise not possible, I am can navigate through the complicated dispute resolution procedures in the construction industry such as mediation, arbitration, expert determination and if necessary, providing representation in various courts and Tribunals.

Licensing

Compliance

The construction industry is highly regulated.

From the identification of licences and insurances requirements to compliance and understanding of rights and obligations under the Home Warranty Insurance Scheme, Home Building Act, Design and Building Practitioners Act, Residential Apartment Buildings (Compliance and Enforcement Powers) Act and the Strata Schemes Management Act 2015, I can assist clients in all areas of compliance.

Litigation

Defended Defect Claims and Post-Completion Disputes

I recognise that the risk for stakeholders in a construction project extends beyond project completion.

The period of post-completion risk is significant, particularly given the limited ability for builders and other affected stakeholders to control or manage that risk.

I work with clients taking a proactive approach to risk management post-completion in order to avoid or minimise disputes, particularly in the context of defect claims in respect of residential building work.

Where disputes are unavoidable, I advise on the appropriate strategies to minimise liability, business disruption and costs associated with resolving disputes.

Litigation

Building and Construction Industry Security of Payment  

I am an expert in prosecuting and defending claims under the security of payment legislation across all Australian jurisdictions.

I am also experienced in negotiating settlement of claims within the confines of the fast-paced framework set up by the legislation.

If necessary, I can also advise and manage applications to challenge adjudication determinations.

Litigation

Administrations & Insolvency

I have extensive experience in corporate insolvency and bankruptcy and have established strong relationships with insolvency practitioners and members of the Bar who specialise not only in insolvency matters but in the construction industry.

These two spheres of expertise place me in a strong and unique position to advise insolvency practitioners on their administration of distressed entities which trade, or were involved in trading, in the construction industry.

I understand the underlying construction context in which insolvency practitioners need to discharge their obligations when managing these often-complex appointments.

I am uniquely positioned to advise the directors of companies engaged in the building and construction industry in the event of their own financial distress.

Litigation

Workplace Relations

Consistent with my “whole project” approach, I have the expertise to advise on the identification and management of risk in workplace relations specific to construction projects.

I provide advice in respect of work health and safety issues (both in the policy as well as the prosecution segments), workplace management (including labour hire) and staffing issues, enterprise bargaining, investigations into workplace conduct and safe work requirements.