He regularly advises on all aspects of the Local Government Act 2009 (Qld) and other Acts that impact local governments, their officers and councillors. He often assists local governments on sensitive and complex issues, including policy formulation, managing conflicts of interest and regulatory compliance. He is familiar with the difficulties that local governments face, as well as the unique challenges faced by urban, regional, rural and remote councils.
While Patrick predominately represents local governments, his experience also extends to advising private clients, including developers and other proponents, as well as State Government departments and agencies.
Patrick acts in all manner of planning appeals and has been involved in a number of seminal cases in the Planning and Environment Court of Queensland. Acting for both proponents and assessment managers allows him to bring a practical perspective, enabling him to deliver strategic solutions for his clients.
Patrick also practices in environmental compliance, assisting clients with strategic approaches to compliance issues under the Environmental Protection Act 1994 (Qld), including responding to enforcement action taken by the regulator.
Challenging elections can be a challenging affair
Stakeholder engagement – the critical social licence for renewable projects
Successfully defending Whitsunday Regional Council’s refusal of a development application for a self-storage facility at Cannondale in Middle Pond Pty Ltd v Whitsunday Regional Council.
Acting for the successful Applicant in the precedent setting case of Room2Move.com Pty Ltd v Western Downs Regional Council, establishing how extension applications are to be determined under the Planning Act.
Advising on ongoing governance issues including conflicts of interest under the Local Government Act, structuring of committees and meeting procedures, and other related issues.
Advising about conflict of interest issues under the Local Government Act, including responding to the Office of the Independent Assessor and the Crime and Corruption Commission. Advising on local government functions including budget preparation, policy formation, engaging with ratepayers, regional advocacy and acting as a ‘trusted adviser’ on sensitive matters which may adversely affect individual and organisational reputations.
Advising a multinational manufacturer about managing environmental compliance risk arising from legacy infrastructure problems leading to discharges.
Advising sewerage system providers on environmental compliance matters under the Environmental Protection Act and the Water Supply (Safety and Reliability) Act.
Brisbane
Level 11, 66 Eagle Street
Brisbane QLD 4000
Tel +61 7 3233 8888
Sydney
Level 32, 25 Martin Place
Sydney NSW 2000
Tel +61 2 8241 5600
Canberra
Level 9, 2 Phillip Law Street
Canberra ACT 2601
Tel +61 2 8241 5600