Environment & Planning - Australia
What the team is known for
The Herbert Smith Freehills team is noted for its national reach and integration of strategic advice from all relevant practice areas to address environmental and planning issues arising throughout the life-cycles of the largest and most complex projects. The law firm is well known for its comprehensive land access and approvals service, supporting both public and private sector projects. The team possesses specialised expertise with regard to environmental impact assessments of mining projects and the specific regulatory considerations affecting developments in the renewables sector. The firm leverages a market-leading dispute resolution practice to assist clients with contentious planning and environmental mandates. Its key clients include Golden Plains Wind Farm, Health Infrastructure NSW and Flotation Energy.
Strengths
"HSF have a sophisticated understanding of complex planning and regulatory matters as they relate to renewable energy projects in Australia."
"All of the lawyers in the environment team are just wonderful to work with. They're very collaborative and provide bespoke advice that matches our risk tolerance."
Work highlights
Herbert Smith Freehills advised ENGIE Australia & New Zealand on its planning approvals strategy for the Hills of Gold Wind Farm.
Notable practitioners
Peter Briggs is based in Sydney and regularly assists clients with environmental and planning issues relating to energy projects and other major developments, handling both advisory and contentious mandates. "A brilliant legal mind who approaches every problem with elegant, logical precision. There’s no one I’d rather have in my corner."
Kathryn Pacey is well regarded in Brisbane for her work acting for major infrastructure players on all environment and planning aspects of major projects, as well as for assisting clients with environmental issues arising from M&A transactions. "She has been excellent and provides very pragmatic, sensible and timely advice."
Heidi Asten is based in Melbourne and regularly advises clients on environment and planning issues relating to major property developments and transport projects. "She has an amazing depth of experience in her field of expertise."
