Business Details
29 Years
experience
Trusted Legal Advisors for Victorian Municipal Councils
Established in 1997, our firm was created to provide an alternative legal service tailored exclusively to Local Government needs. We distinguish ourselves by operating as a business that delivers legal and strategic advice specifically for the Local Government sector, prioritising practical solutions that extend beyond legal compliance to achieve commercial outcomes. Our practice is built on long-term relationships with clients, and we exclusively represent Victorian Municipal Councils to eliminate conflicts of interest. With a team of specialists, including experts in road and infrastructure law, asset management, and local government legislation, we offer deep industry knowledge through workshops, publications, and hands-on legal support.Our commitment to client-focused service is reflected in our track record of assisting councils with complex matters such as special rates and charges, land acquisition, and road discontinuances. We maintain a reputation for practical advice, ensuring client satisfaction while navigating the evolving legal landscape of local government operations.
Services
Legal Consultation
Workshops
Special Rates Manual
Asset Management
Training Programs
Details
- Year established: 1997
Highlights and features
- We exclusively serve Victorian Municipal Councils to avoid conflicts of interest.
- Our team includes specialists with decades of experience in local government law.
- We provide practical solutions beyond legal compliance to achieve commercial outcomes.
- We conduct workshops and publish resources to support council operations.
- Our practice is built on long-term client relationships and industry expertise.
Services
Legal Consultation
We provide tailored legal advice to Victorian Municipal Councils on governance, policy, and compliance. Our team ensures councils navigate complex legislation effectively. Clients benefit from our exclusive focus on local government law.
Workshops
Our workshops cover critical local government topics like special rates, land acquisition, and road discontinuances. Designed for council staff, they combine legal expertise with practical case studies. Participants gain actionable insights to improve decision-making.
Special Rates Manual
The Macquarie Special Rates and Charges Manual offers comprehensive guidance on declaring and levying special rates. It includes templates, legislative extracts, and case law analysis. Councils use it to ensure compliance and efficient implementation.
Asset Management
We assist councils with managing property assets, including road discontinuances and land transfers. Our approach balances legal requirements with community consultation. Clients receive strategic advice to mitigate risks and achieve outcomes.
Training Programs
Our training programs enhance council staff capabilities in local government law. Topics include valuation, planning, and administrative law. Programs are delivered by experienced practitioners to ensure relevance and practical application.
People
Peter Lucas
Specialist Local Government Lawyer
Peter has over 25 years of experience in local government law, specialising in road and infrastructure law. He is a published expert and regular speaker at industry forums.
Ian Robb
Asset Management Consultant
Ian specialises in property-related matters for local government, with 15 years of consultancy experience. He focuses on road discontinuances and community consultation processes.
Georgie Ward
Local Government Lawyer
Georgie has worked with Macquarie since 2006, specialising in court advocacy and legislative interpretation. She holds degrees in Law and Arts, combining enthusiasm with expertise.
Questions
What services do you offer to Victorian Municipal Councils?
We provide legal advice, workshops, and publications focused on local government challenges like special rates, land acquisition, and asset management.
Are your workshops available online?
Yes, our workshops are conducted virtually via Zoom, covering topics such as special rates and road discontinuances.
Do you work with councils outside Victoria?
No, we exclusively represent Victorian Municipal Councils to ensure focused expertise and avoid conflicts of interest.
What areas of law do you specialise in?
Our expertise includes local government law, asset management, planning, administrative law, and special rates and charges schemes.
