Gerard provides strategic guidance on approvals, compliance and negotiations for renewable energy, infrastructure and large-scale developments.
Biography
As a former qualified town planner, Gerard draws on his prior experience advising clients on planning schemes, infrastructure agreements and compulsory acquisitions.
Acting for developers, landowners, councils and government agencies, he works across mixed-use communities, build-to-rent projects, renewable energy developments and cultural heritage management.
Gerard regularly appears in the Planning and Environment Court and Land Court, acting on complex appeals and enforcement proceedings. His work includes advising on ministerial call-ins, environmental compliance and strategic planning for priority development areas, adopting a collaborative approach to align client’s objectives and statutory requirements to achieve commercial outcomes.
Gerard is also a member of the Property Council of Australia’s Planning and Infrastructure Committee in Queensland and has previously been a member of the Planning and Environment Committee for Queensland Law Society.
Gerards's experience
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Townsville City Council
Advised on the $400m Lansdown Eco Industrial Precinct, a 2,200ha development involving multiple transactions with around 10 proponents. This included the staged delivery of development ready sites and associated infrastructure, with proponents delivering and operating projects under long term lease models. -
Westlink
Advised on the successful appeal regarding the refusal of a 100 megawatts gas-fired power station development, overcoming complex planning and agricultural land issues. -
Cubico & Renewable Energy Partners
Advised on the infrastructure agreements and cultural heritage components of the Wambo Windfarm, QLD which has the capacity to power 312,000 homes and creating 500 megawatts. -
Walker Corporation
Negotiated the Development Agreement for Lakesview Robina Estate, Gold Coast QLD comprising over 750 residential lots and affordable housing components. -
Queensland Department of Public Works
Provided guidance on the priority development processes for the Carrara Sports Stadium and Townsville Stadium. -
Northeast Business Park
Advised on the development of the 760ha mixed-use industrial and business park featuring a marina and residential, commercial and community areas.
Awards, recognition and rankings
- Best Lawyers in Australia 2027 – Recognised for Land Use and Zoning Law and Planning and Environment Law