We provide integrated and efficient legal services to local councils, State Government authorities and developers 

Over the years, Harris Wheeler has gained extensive experience in Local Government, Planning and Environmental Law. This experience has enabled Harris Wheeler to be appointed to many Local Council legal services panels.

We provide our clients with advice and representation in all areas of this law including:

• Interpretation and application of Commonwealth and State legislation. This includes interpretation and application of planning documents that are relevant to planning law, including Environmental Planning Instruments (such as SEPPs, REPs and LEPs), Development Control Plans, Planning Agreements and Developer Contribution Plans.
• Representation in proceedings before the Land and Environment Court. Such proceedings include merit appeals, seeking of declaratory orders and injunctive relief, criminal prosecutions and valuation-related appeals. We have particular expertise in representing local councils in environmental and planning prosecutions.
• Representation in criminal prosecutions undertaken by local councils in the Local Court. Such prosecutions include pollution offences and offences under the Food Act, Roads Act, Local Government Act and Companion Animals Act.
• Advice on contaminated land management issues.
• Advice on contractual matters affecting local government.

Search for news alerts and articles relating to government, planning and environmental issues.

Related links

• Hunter Councils - includes links to all Local Councils in the Hunter Region
• NSW Department of Local Government
• NSW Department of Planning
• NSW Department of Natural Resources
• NSW Department of Lands
• EPLA - Environment and Planning Law Association of New South Wales

The Team:
- Martin Ball
- Brian Glendenning
- Micah Jenkins
- Katherine Ross
- Lisa Gowing