Ashurst has a comprehensive environment and planning offering, allowing the team to advise on major infrastructure, mining, and energy transition projects, as well as advising government bodies and corporations on ESG compliance and industry decarbonisation. At the helm of the practice in Sydney, Tony Hill acts for a diverse client base including government agencies, industrial mining and energy corporations, and infrastructure developers. John Briggs is well versed in managing litigation in the federal courts and advising on biodiversity matters, while Jane Hall stands out for her work involving environmental and biodiversity conservation. Paul Wilson is adept at handling matters related to environmental and planning approvals, as well as compliance issues, across a range of industry sectors. Guy Dwyer and Michael Voros were promoted to partner in 2024.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘The individuals I have worked with in Ashurst’s Environment and Planning practice, particularly Paul Wilson, stand out for their depth of expertise, sound judgement, and the consistently high calibre of their client service. What sets them apart from competitors is their ability to combine technical legal acumen with a practical, commercially aware approach.'
- 'Overall, Ashurst’s Environment and Planning practice is trusted, insightful, and outcome-driven — an excellent choice for clients facing complex regulatory challenges or looking for a strategic legal partner in the planning and approvals space.’
- 'Compared to other firms, Ashurst's Environment and Planning team is particularly responsive and commercially attuned. Their advice reflects a genuine understanding of project imperatives such as timing, stakeholder management, and reputational risk. The team is consistently well-prepared, proactive in issue spotting, and reliable under pressure.'
- 'The team have deep knowledge of the renewable energy industry. They are very good understanding of how regulators work. Excellent attention to detail. Excellent written advice - clear, concise and always on the mark.'
- ‘I have worked closely with Paul Wilson for many years, typically on complex, high-value, urgent or business-critical matters. Ashurst's environment team has generally been my first port of call when I have a difficult, sensitive or challenging issue to work through. I can rely on them to provide clear, concise advice and deliver the strategic insight needed to support the business effectively.’
- ‘Paul Wilson is an incredibly strong communicator with a calm, reassuring presence. He consistently delivers on commitments, producing high-quality, technically excellent work that aligns closely with business needs. Working with him is a consistently positive experience.'
Key clients
- NSW Government Victorian Government Queensland Government Barro ACEN Australia Balmaine Gold Centennial Coal Regis Resources GrainCorp Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Practice head
Tony Hill
Other key lawyers
John Briggs; Jane Hall; Paul Wilson; Connor Davies; Guy Dwyer; Michael Voros