Environment & Planning

Clayton Utz maintains a strong focus on public sector infrastructure and development which encompasses rail, road, broadband and urban renewal projects. The environment and planning team also assists leading corporates seeking approvals for mining enterprises or residential, commercial and leisure property developments. Additionally, Clayton Utz represents public and private sector entities in high-profile litigation and before inquiries and tribunals addressing environmental issues, as well as advising on regulatory compliance matters. The firm offers expertise in renewable energy, climate change and water matters, and stands out for exploiting new technology to facilitate a rapid reaction to environmental incidents.

"The combination at Clayton Utz of strong leadership, practical guidance and strategic handling of matters instills confidence that outcomes will be optimised for long-term success."

"Clayton Utz is outstanding in this area. The team has a very thorough knowledge of environmental and planning issues. There is a real depth to the team from partner down to junior solicitors."

Clayton Utz advised Idemitsu Renewable Developments Australia on an energy transition project in the Hunter Valley involving the development of a renewable energy technology precinct at the oldest mine site in New South Wales.

Karen Trainor is based in Brisbane and is particularly highly regarded for her representation of mining and resources sector clients in planning approval and contentious environmental mandates. "Karen's practical, pragmatic approach, coupled with her extensive awareness of external factors and the political climate, have been very valuable."

Brendan Bateman is a frequent advisor to energy and infrastructure clients on planning approval and environmental matters.He is particularly well-reputed fortransport-related mandates. "Brendan has most importantly demonstrated an ability to assist in enabling the desired outcome of the client." "Brendan is very well respected due to his deep knowledge of the law and his extensive experience with complex and high-profile property matters."

Claire Smith is a versatile Sydney-based partner with expertise spanning the environment, planning and climate change spectrum who advises on a variety of issues, including contaminated land matters and planning disputes. "Claire is a pleasure to work with. She is responsive and strives to provide practical legal advice even in complex scenarios." "Claire provides exceptional experience and expertise that is unique in the Sydney market."

Sallyanne Everett is a well-regarded Melbourne-based practitioner who is particularly noted for her provision of environment and planning advice to Victorian government clients engaged in major road and rail transportation projects. "Sallyanne inspires confidence as we navigate through matters of significant complexity."

Nick Thomas counts both government entities and private sector players among his clientele, whom he regularly assists with planning, environmental and climate change issues impacting on their infrastructure and utilities projects. He is based in Sydney. "Nick Thomas is a highly reliable legal professional."

Damien Gardiner is a respected Melbourne-based practitioner whose environment and planning expertise is substantially focused on environmental impact assessment, contaminated land and land acquisition matters.