Planning & environment
Strategic planning and environmental advice for developers, architects, contractors, investors, strata managers and property owners.
Client reviews
Verified Google reviews
Julz
Sale of a business
Michael Lim was fantastic in helping us with the contract and the sale of our café. He was professional, knowledgeable and made the whole process much easier for us. Michael explained everything clearly, responded to our questions quickly and made sure everything was handled properly from start to finish. Selling a business can be stressful, but we felt confident knowing Michael was looking after the legal side for us. We really appreciate all his help and would highly recommend Michael to anyone needing assistance with a business sale or contract.
Juliana M.
Building defects claim
Thank you to Maysaa, Guy and your teams for the support you have provided throughout the defects claims process and during the rectification works. Your guidance, responsiveness, and commitment have been invaluable, and we are truly grateful for the effort and expertise you have contributed in helping finalise this matter. Thank you again for your continued support, dedication, and partnership. It has been a pleasure working with you throughout this process.
Dariush H.
Ongoing legal matters
I've had a great experience with Michael and the team at Project Lawyers. Michael is professional, knowledgeable and always takes the time to explain things clearly. He has assisted me with several matters over the years and has always been responsive and focused on finding practical solutions. I really appreciate the level of service from Michael and his team and would happily recommend them.
Maddalena V.
Compulsory acquisition
I chose Project Lawyers and in particular Maysaa Parrino to assist me through the complex process of a compulsory acquisition. I found Maysaa an exceptional lawyer but most importantly a direct and strong communicator. Persistence, team work (thank you Matt for all your work as well) has provided the keys to achieve the best outcome possible. Thank you.
Victoria B.
Compulsory acquisition
I engaged Project Lawyers earlier this year for a compulsory acquisition project. Maysaa, Matt and Michael were exceptional. I was super impressed with the professionalism of everyone within Project Lawyers and would not hesitate to recommend them.
Practice area
Advice for a planning system that keeps changing
Laws and policies governing the built and natural environment are constantly changing, driven by urbanisation, concerns over climate change, the growing importance of renewable energy and a push to streamline the planning process across three tiers of government.
The team at Project Lawyers has extensive experience in all aspects of planning and environment law, providing strategic advice and services on a wide range of planning matters.
Development applications, complying development and exempt development
LEP amendments and planning proposals under the gateway provisions
Voluntary planning agreements and developer contributions
Easements and access to land under s88K Conveyancing Act 1919 and s40 Land and Environment Court Act 1979
Land contamination, pollution, remediation and voluntary management proposals
Directors’ duties and liabilities under planning and environment regulations
Interpretation of LEPs, SEPPs, development control plans and policies
Critical habitat and threatened species conservation legislation
Site and environmental audits, due diligence and environmental impact assessment
Regulatory compliance and enforcement
Existing use rights
Dispute resolution in the Land and Environment Court
Why Choose Us
Planning advice built around your site and project
Planning controls shape what can be built and where. We advise developers, landowners and businesses on the planning issues that affect their sites, from early due diligence to approvals and appeals.
Development applications
Advice on development applications, modifications and conditions of consent.
Planning proposals
Support with planning proposals, LEP amendments and voluntary planning agreements.
Land and environment issues
Advice on contaminated land, existing use rights, easements and access.
Appeals and representation
Representation in Land and Environment Court appeals and related proceedings.
Get in touch
Call (02) 9025 0808, email law@projectlawyers.com.au or send an enquiry with a brief outline of your matter and any upcoming deadlines.
Initial discussion
We talk through your situation, the documents involved and what you want to achieve, then confirm who in our team is best placed to help.
Advice and a plan
We explain your options, the likely process and the next steps, so you can make an informed decision before work begins.
We act for you
From contracts and negotiations to mediation and court proceedings, we manage the legal work and keep you updated throughout.
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently asked questions
Answers to the questions clients ask most. Can’t see yours? Send us a message.
Can you help with a development application?
Yes. We advise on development applications, complying development and exempt development, and can represent you if an application is refused or not determined.
Can you help amend an LEP or lodge a planning proposal?
Yes. We advise on applications to amend local environmental plans and on planning proposals under the gateway provisions of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979.
What are voluntary planning agreements?
They are agreements between a developer and a planning authority to provide public benefits, such as land, works or money, in connection with a development. We advise on their terms and on developer contributions.
Do you advise on contaminated land?
Yes. We advise on land contamination, pollution, remediation and voluntary management proposals, along with site audits and due diligence.
What are existing use rights?
They can allow a lawful use to continue after planning controls change. We advise on whether existing use rights apply and how they can be relied on.
Do you advise on easements and access to land?
Yes, including easements for rock anchors and stormwater drainage under s88K of the Conveyancing Act 1919 and s40 of the Land and Environment Court Act 1979.
Can you advise on a site before I buy it?
Yes. We can review the planning controls that apply to a site, including zoning, development standards and known constraints, so you understand its development potential before you commit.
How do I contact Project Lawyers about a matter?
Still have a question?
Tell us about your matter and our team will get back to you.
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