Andrew is Co-Founder and Principal with in-depth experience in advising construction, infrastructure and energy sectors in transactional and disputed matters concerning the engineering, procurement, construction and operation of major projects across Australia and internationally.
Andrew was recently chosen by his peers as one of the best construction and infrastructure lawyers in Australia. The 11th Edition of the Best Lawyers in Australia was published with an article and interactive table by the Australian Financial Review.
He has advised in both private practice and in house for some of Australia’s largest construction and engineering companies and understands the commercial and technical drivers in the delivery of major projects. While Andrew is a technically focused lawyer, he also has a commercial attitude and a relentless approach to high performance. Andrew is committed to helping his clients to manage their risks and solve problems.
Andrew advises on complex and large-scale projects across the full range of procurement models. His experience spans a diverse range of projects in the technology, retail and processing sectors. He has significant expertise advising contractors and other industry participants in relation to all matters arising in connection with the Building and Construction Industry Payments Act 2004, the Subcontractors’ Charges Act 1974, and the Queensland Building and Construction Commission Act 1991.
Andrew is an accomplished sportsman having represented Australia in swimming. He continues his driven approach, honed through years as an elite sportsman, in the way he helps clients set and accomplish their goals.
Project highlights
Kangaroo Point Green Bridge
Advising the client on all stages of the contract framework for the new bridge. Assisted with the tendering, negotiation and administrative phase of the project and worked closely with the project team to provide legal assistance and advice.
Carmichael Rail Network
Acted for the head contractor on the $500M Carmichael Rail Network, including providing regular contract management and strategic advice throughout the entire project.
University of Queensland Synthetic Oval & Sports Hub
Acted for the plaintiff in Supreme Court proceedings against a lead consultant architect and sub-consultant engineer.
Large scale builds involve complex commercial contracts. The scope documents are inevitably convoluted and painful to work through. Clarifications and alternative tenders sometimes just confuse matters more. Today we discuss one such case. While the Court dealt with a number of topics here, we’re focusing on just two: how to interpret a specification, and time bars for delay claims.
In the construction industry, technological and electronic communication has become an integral part of project delivery. But while electronic service documents brings efficiency and speed, it can come with risks and uncertainties not at play in the context of personal or postal service.
Who bears the risk of remote and unforeseen events in a construction contract? As far as possible, that is for the parties to decide before entering into an agreement. Beyond that, the answer is murky.
