Expertise
Matt is a problem-solver who specialises in planning, environment and local government law.
His practice spans:
- front-end planning feasibility and advisory work;
- strategy, preparation and management of planning permit applications and planning scheme amendments through their life cycle; and
- advocacy and appearances before VCAT, Planning Panels Victoria & Ministerial Advisory Committees.
Matt represents private clients, developers, universities, hospitals, responsible authorities, referral authorities and planning authorities in complex planning matters. He is also experienced with matters involving compulsory acquisition, easements, section 173 agreements, restrictive covenants, Cultural Heritage Management Plans, Precinct Structure Plans, Development Contributions Plans, the Local Government Act(s) and the Windfall Gains Tax.
Experience
Matt’s recent experience includes:
- acting as General Counsel for a Victorian local government;
- acquiring over 100 freehold and leasehold interests on behalf of the Department of Transport and Planning for the Suburban Rail Loop – East Project;
- acting for Greystar Australia to negotiate planning permission by consent in advance of the contested VCAT hearing for Haiku Yarra and Haiku Claremont, a dual-tower build-to-rent and office development delivering over 600 dwellings;
- acting for Ramsay Health Care in a streamlined and expedited Standing Advisory Committee Referral process to approve the new Warringal Private Hospital;
- acting for Baptcare and achieving a negotiated settlement with the objector parties and Council following the compulsory conference for the expansion of its Peninsula View Residential Aged Care facility;
- acting for the Victorian Planning Authority in a nine-day Infrastructure Contributions Plan planning scheme amendment hearing; and
- advising a global supermarket brand on its entrance into the Victorian market, and facilitating this opportunity via a bespoke Ministerial Advisory Committee process.
Matt is well-placed to assist with any planning, environment, rezoning, or local government issues affecting your projects.