Property
With over 50 years of experience, our property law team offers expert advice on personal and commercial property matters, including buying and selling, subdivisions, developments, and leases.
Prepare for a meeting
Property Law
Preparing for legal meetings can be overwhelming. Read our guide to feel confident and comfortable when entering into one of these meetings. If you don’t understand or don’t have access to these documents, contact us and ask.
WHAT TO BRING
Every matter is different, and the documents you’ll need vary depending on your situation. The person making your first appointment will guide you through any specific needs. We ask that you send all relevant documents prior to the first meeting to ensure that the lawyer can review and prepare for the first meeting.
What to expect
Your first meeting is about understanding the specifics of your matter and hearing your instructions on how you’d like to proceed. We’ll outline the process step by step, explain any risks or issues that may arise, and provide clarity on the best path forward.
You’ll leave with a clear understanding of your options, the likely next steps, and reassurance that your matter is being handled with care and expertise.
Meet your team
Our property law team brings a wealth of experience across all areas of property and land law:
Edwin Hume
Donald Duffy
Damien McKenna
Adam Cattach
Nicholas McKinnon
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Property Subdivision
Preparing for legal meetings can be overwhelming. Read our guide to feel confident and comfortable when entering into one of these meetings. If you don’t understand or don’t have access to these documents, contact us and ask.
WHAT TO BRING
For your initial consultation, it’s helpful to bring:
- Any plans or surveys.
- Property deeds.
- Existing agreements.
- Correspondence with councils or authorities.
Even partial or draft documents are useful — bring what you have, and we’ll guide you from there.
What to expect
In the first meeting, our focus is on understanding your project and the stage it’s at. We’ll outline the process step by step, highlight potential risks, and provide a clear guideline of how we’ll approach your matter. You’ll leave with clarity on the next steps, confidence in the process, and answers to any immediate questions.
Meet your team
Our subdivision team combines deep property law expertise with practical, on‑the‑ground experience:
Edwin Hume
Donald Duffy
Andrew Penton
Adam Cattach
Tammy Preen
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Leases
Preparing for legal meetings can be overwhelming. Read our guide to feel confident and comfortable when entering into one of these meetings. If you don’t understand or don’t have access to these documents, contact us and ask.
WHAT TO BRING
For your initial consultation, it’s helpful to bring:
- Any prior lease agreements.
- Details on leasing plans and timeframes.
- Any relevant correspondence.
Even partial or draft documents are useful — bring what you have, and we’ll guide you from there.
What to expect
Gage an understanding of the project, the clients wants and needs, talk through how we approach the matter and the outcome we desire
Meet your team
Our team combines specialist knowledge with years of hands‑on leasing experience. Key practitioners include:
Edwin Hume
Donald Duffy
Adam Cattach
Damien McKenna
Matthew Abraham
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Residential Aged Care Contracts
Preparing for legal meetings can be overwhelming. Read our guide to feel confident and comfortable when entering into one of these meetings. If you don’t understand or don’t have access to these documents, contact us and ask.
WHAT TO BRING
To help us provide clear, practical advice, please bring:
- Your residential care agreement.
- Any correspondence with Centrelink relating to aged care arrangements.
What to expect
The process usually begins with a phone conversation to understand which facility you’ve chosen and what you expect from the service. Once we’ve reviewed your agreement, we prepare a letter of advice tailored to your situation.
We then meet with you to talk through the advice in detail, answer your questions, and make sure you understand every aspect of the agreement. You’ll leave the process with clarity, reassurance, and confidence about your next steps.
Meet your team
Our aged care contract matters are led by:
Edwin Hume
Nicholas McKinnon
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Land Acquisition
Preparing for legal meetings can be overwhelming. Read our guide to feel confident and comfortable when entering into one of these meetings. If you don’t understand or don’t have access to these documents, contact us and ask.
WHAT TO BRING
To help us give you clear advice from the outset, please bring:
- Any letters or correspondence received from the acquiring body
Even partial or draft documents are useful — bring what you have, and we’ll guide you from there.
What to expect
At your first consultation, we’ll review the stage of the acquisition and any notices you’ve received. We’ll then explain — in plain language — what the authority is proposing, what it means for you now, and what options you have moving forward.
You’ll leave the meeting knowing:
- Where you stand in the process.
- What we can do to protect your interests.
- The best‑case outcomes we’ll work toward on your behalf.
Our goal is to replace uncertainty with understanding, and anxiety with a clear plan of action.
Meet your team
Our land acquisition matters are led by senior lawyers with extensive experience in property and compulsory acquisition:
Damien McKenna
Myf Cummerford
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Property Development
Preparing for legal meetings can be overwhelming. Read our guide to feel confident and comfortable when entering into one of these meetings. If you don’t understand or don’t have access to these documents, contact us and ask.
WHAT TO BRING
Bringing even draft or partial documents to your first meeting helps us provide clearer, faster advice. Useful materials include:
- Title deeds, site plans, and surveys.
- Zoning and land use information.
- Purchase agreements, contracts, or loan documents.
- Existing permits, approvals, or environmental assessments.
- Joint venture or shareholder agreements.
- Insurance details (property and liability).
- Project timelines or management plans.
What to expect
In our first meeting, we’ll focus on understanding your project and objectives. We’ll:
- Review your documentation and clarify any immediate issues.
- Outline potential risks and compliance requirements.
- Provide a clear roadmap of the next legal steps.
You’ll leave with a sense of clarity and direction – knowing where you stand, what to prioritise, and how we can support you in moving your development forward.
Meet your team
Our property development team brings a depth of experience and commercial insight to every project. Key practitioners include:
Edwin Hume
Donald Duffy
Tammy Preen
Kristie Clark
Adam Cattach
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Conveyancing
Preparing for legal meetings can be overwhelming. Read our guide to feel confident and comfortable when entering into one of these meetings. If you don’t understand or don’t have access to these documents, contact us and ask.
WHAT TO BRING
For most conveyancing matters, you don’t need to bring anything to your first discussion. If you already have a draft contract or property details, these can be helpful, but our team will guide you on what’s required as the process unfolds.
What to expect
Most conveyancing is managed over the phone or via email, making the process convenient and efficient. Once you engage us, one of our conveyancers will contact you to understand the type of transaction (e.g. first home purchase, investment, sale of property) and what stage you’re at.
From there, we tailor our approach:
- For first‑time buyers, we explain the process in detail and guide you step‑by‑step.
- For experienced clients, we focus on efficiencies and key risks.
In all cases, you’ll receive a clear overview of the process through to settlement, answers to your questions, and reassurance that your transaction is being carefully managed.
Meet your team
Our conveyancing team combines specialist knowledge with years of hands‑on experience managing property transactions. Key practitioners include:
Kristie Clark
Tamara Hawkins
Melanie Pacey
Tammy Preen
Esha Kulatunga
Conveyancing
A smooth, stress‑free, and legally compliant property transaction — with clear communication and support at every step.
Conveyancing
PROCESS
Buying or selling property is one of the biggest financial decisions most people make, and the process can quickly become stressful if issues aren’t managed properly. Individuals, couples, businesses, and developers come to us to ensure their transaction runs smoothly and complies with all legal requirements.
We help uncover potential issues early — whether that’s restrictions on the title, zoning complications, or contract terms that could cause problems later. Our team reviews contracts before you commit, manages all the paperwork, and keeps you updated throughout the process, so you feel informed and in control.
We handle the legal details for both buyers and sellers, making sure every stage is managed with care and accuracy.
For Buyers:
- Reviewing contracts to identify risks and protect your interests.
- Conducting property searches to uncover restrictions or issues.
- Liaising with lenders
- Preparing all required legal documents.
- Managing settlement, including stamp duty, title transfer, and final funds.
For Sellers:
- Preparing legal documents for the sale.
- Managing disclosure obligations.
- Acting as the central point of contact with the buyer, agent, and lender.
- Protecting your interests throughout the transaction.
- Advising on compliance and resolving issues as they arise.
Our conveyancing team is one of the most experienced in the region, handling transactions across residential, commercial, industrial, and rural properties. Clients trust us because we:
- Keep them informed at every stage, reducing stress and uncertainty.
- Offer the strength of a large team — from dedicated conveyancers to senior property lawyers — ready to step in if any complex legal issues arise.
- Have built a strong reputation for reliable, efficient, and client‑focused service.
When you work with us, you gain the confidence of knowing your transaction is in safe hands.
Property Development
We have a proven track record and ongoing relationship with some of the biggest developers in Victoria, Gippsland, and south east Melbourne.
Our firms provides end to end service that helps to ensure a smooth and compliant project. We have strong relationships with key stakeholders to help facilitate the transaction, from planners and surveyors through to valuers for project financing requirements.
We spend time to understand each project to develop and apply customised legal strategies.
Property Development
PROCESS
Property development is governed by a myriad of local, state, and federal regulations. These include zoning laws, environmental regulations, building codes, and land use policies. Our property lawyers assist Developers to understand and comply with those regulations, negotiating planning conditions with local government, and to undertake drafting and reviewing of sale of land contracts, agent's agreements, civil works contracts and creation and lodgement of plans of subdivisions. We assist in dispute resolution and mitigating any disputes or issues that may arise throughout the project.
- Initial consultation
- Due Diligence - Research and investigation
- Establishing the development structure
- Risk assessment
- Permits and approvals
- Environmental compliance
- Drafting, reviewing and negotiating contracts
- Monitoring throughout the project for any legal support
- Assist with all closing procedures, ensuring legal documents are properly executed and recorded and contractual obligations have been met.
By choosing our law firm, property developers gain a trusted partner who is dedicated to safeguarding their interests and contributing to their success.
Land Acquisition
When your land is subject to compulsory acquisition, we protect your rights, negotiate fair terms, and guide you through the process with clarity and care — ensuring you achieve the best possible outcome.
Land Acquisition
PROCESS
Land acquisition can be complex and deeply personal. For some, the property has been in the family for generations. For others, it’s a source of income or the foundation of their business. The uncertainty of the process often creates anxiety about financial security, lifestyle changes, or even the future of a community.
We support individuals and groups facing compulsory acquisition by reviewing notices, explaining what’s really being asked, and identifying opportunities to push back or negotiate better terms. Often, acquisition doesn’t mean losing your whole property — we help you understand the scope, what it means right now, and how to safeguard your position.
With clear advice and strong advocacy, we work to reduce stress, protect your interests, and secure fair compensation.
Our role is to protect you from risk while maximising your outcome. This includes:
- Understanding your needs, objectives, and the specifics of the land involved.
- Reviewing acquisition notices and all related documentation (titles, agreements, encumbrances).
- Conducting due diligence — title searches, zoning checks, land use and environmental assessments.
- Engaging experts to maximise your claim - market valuations, land impact assessments and business impact assessments
- Negotiating with the acquiring authority to align terms with your interests.
- Securing the funds and compensation payable to you.
- Mediating disputes if they arise, keeping the process constructive and outcome‑focused.
Our property and acquisition lawyers bring deep expertise and a proven track record of securing favourable outcomes for landowners. Clients choose us because we:
- Advocate strongly to ensure your rights are upheld.
- Deliver fair results, from financial compensation to negotiated conditions.
- Tailor every strategy to reflect your unique circumstances.
- Draw on strong negotiation skills and a network of experts — from valuers to accountants — to strengthen your case.
- Provide end‑to‑end support, from first notice to final resolution.
With us by your side, you can approach the acquisition process with confidence and clarity, knowing your interests are being protected.
Residential Aged Care Contracts
We review and explain aged care agreements in clear terms — so you understand your rights, responsibilities, and future costs before signing.
Residential Aged Care Contracts
PROCESS
Moving into residential aged care is a big transition, often made under emotional or time‑pressured circumstances. Contracts are usually lengthy, full of unfamiliar language, and difficult to navigate without guidance. Too often, people sign without realising how certain clauses could affect their living arrangements, ongoing fees, or ability to make changes later.
We help by reviewing your agreement in detail, highlighting the points that may impact your lifestyle or finances, and explaining them in plain English. From room changes and decoration rights, to ongoing financial obligations, personal guarantees, and termination clauses — we ensure you know exactly what you’re agreeing to, so you can make confident, informed decisions.
- Reviewing your residential care agreement in detail.
- Preparing a tailored letter of advice explaining the risks, obligations, and key clauses.
- Meeting with you to talk through the advice step by step.
- Answering your questions and providing clarity around lifestyle rights, fees, and exit terms.
We’ve helped many clients enter aged care with a clear understanding of what their contract means for them and their family. Clients choose us because we:
- Provide transparency around obligations and fees before you sign.
- Identify risks and help you avoid unexpected costs or restrictions.
- Take a supportive, straightforward approach — ensuring you feel informed and confident about your decision.
Our focus is on protecting your interests and giving you peace of mind at an important stage of life.
Leases
We help businesses avoid costly surprises by ensuring lease agreements are clear, fair, and aligned with their needs — so you understand both your rights and obligations before signing.
Leases
PROCESS
Whether you’re a small start‑up or a well‑established enterprise, the terms of your lease can have a significant impact on your business. Ambiguities in wording, hidden requirements, or clauses that heavily favour one party over the other can lead to disputes and unexpected consequences.
We act to protect your interests by carefully reviewing your lease, identifying potential risks, and clarifying your rights and obligations. From checking the application of relevant legislation, to breaking down termination conditions and renewal clauses, we make sure you enter every lease with full knowledge of what it means for your business.
Our role is to safeguard your position and give you confidence in your leasing arrangements. This includes:
- Understanding your needs and objectives for the lease.
- Gathering and reviewing all relevant documents, including draft agreements and amendments.
- Drafting or amending clauses to ensure clarity and protection.
- Negotiating lease terms on your behalf.
- Ensuring compliance with relevant laws and regulations.
- Identifying and mitigating risks before they cause issues.
- Resolving disputes quickly and constructively if they arise.
Businesses trust us with their lease matters because we:
- Bring in‑depth knowledge of the complexities and nuances of leasing.
- Have a proven track record built on years of experience across industries and property types.
- Meticulously review every clause to identify risks and protect your interests.
- Tailor our advice to your unique business needs, rather than offering one‑size‑fits‑all solutions.
- Provide clear, practical advice — breaking down legal jargon into straightforward language you can act on.
With us on your side, you can enter into your lease with confidence, knowing your business is protected.
Property Subdivision
We guide you through the subdivision process from start to finish — helping you navigate zoning laws, planning permits, resolve title issues, and prepare the right legal documents so your project moves forward smoothly and with fewer risks.
Property Subdivision
PROCESS
Subdivision is a valuable way to unlock the potential of your land, but the process can be complex. Both individuals and businesses come to us facing challenges such as planning permit conditions, environmental concerns, easement and access rights, or title complications that could delay or derail their plans.
We help by clarifying, reviewing and preparing documents, conducting thorough title searches, and identifying risks early. Our team also manages objections and disputes that may arise and ensures your subdivision proceeds efficiently. With clear guidance and practical solutions, we support you at every step — from initial planning through to final registration.
Our approach is structured to protect your investment and keep your project on track. This includes:
- Meeting with you to understand your objectives and any concerns.
- Collecting and reviewing relevant documents including current titles, surveys, and agreements.
- Reviewing local zoning and subdivision regulations.
- Coordinating environmental assessments and impact evaluations.
- Ensuring compliance with local land use zoning and regional development goals.
- Drafting and reviewing the legal documents required for subdivision.
- Understanding commercial imperatives and outcomes.
Clients choose us for subdivision matters because we:
- Have a team of experienced property lawyers with a strong track record in subdivision work.
- Provide end‑to‑end legal support, from early feasibility checks through to registration.
- Tailor our advice to reflect the specific needs and goals of each project.
- Bring established relationships within the community and with local authorities, helping to avoid unnecessary delays.
With our support, you can proceed with confidence knowing your subdivision is compliant, well‑structured, and strategically managed.
Property Law
From buying your first home to resolving complex land disputes, we provide clear, practical advice across all areas of property law — ensuring your rights are protected and every transaction or agreement is legally secure.
Property Law
PROCESS
Property law touches almost every stage of owning, developing, or transferring land. It’s a complex area that regulates the rights and interests relating to property, and clients often come to us when they need clarity, compliance, and peace of mind.
We support individuals, couples, and organisations with a wide range of property‑related matters — from routine transactions through to complex disputes. Our work covers:
- Sale and purchase of land
- Adverse possession claims
- Creating easements on land
- Covenants and restrictions on land
- Agreements with authorities
- Land compensation and compulsory acquisition claims
Whether you’re a first‑home buyer, developer, mortgage broker, or real estate professional, we deliver guidance that helps you comply with the law, avoid disputes, and move forward with confidence.
We provide practical, outcome‑focused legal support for all property matters, including:
- Buying or selling property.
- Drafting and reviewing leasing agreements.
- Zoning and land use advice.
- Resolving property and boundary disputes.
- Advising on easements, covenants, and restrictions.
- Foreclosure and mortgage issues.
- Construction and development projects.
- Environmental and regulatory compliance.
Clients choose us because we bring:
- Extensive experience across the full spectrum of property law.
- A large, skilled team of lawyers and conveyancers who collaborate to deliver the best outcome for your matter.
- Clear communication — keeping you informed at every stage so you feel supported and in control.
- Proven results in protecting client interests, resolving disputes, and ensuring transactions progress smoothly.
Our approach combines detailed legal knowledge with practical, client‑focused support — giving you confidence in every property decision.