Maddocks’ practice group is co-led by experienced partners Maria Marshall in Melbourne, who specialises in advising various state government departments, and Michael Winram in Sydney, who focuses on environmental issues, including contaminated land and biodiversity law, as well as appearing before courts at all levels of the Australian judicial system. An experienced litigator, Breellen Warry is a name to note for clients seeking advice on federal and state planning and environmental approvals processes. Patrick Ibbotson is well prepared to handle a broad range of matters, including environmental compliance, contaminated land issues, resource conservation and approval strategies for infrastructure projects, for government bodies and private corporations. Terry Montebello regularly appears before tribunals and government advisory committees to advise on major projects. The team was also bolstered by the arrival of Joseph Monaghan from Holding Redlich in October 2024.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘What sets the Maddocks Environment and Planning team apart is their exceptional depth of knowledge — not only in environmental law but also in the technical and operational dimensions of PFAS management.'
- 'It is rare to find a legal team that can speak so fluently about the intricacies of PFAS contamination and the operational realities of investigative and remedial works. Maddocks combines this technical fluency with sharp legal insight, ensuring that our organisation’s commercial interests are robustly protected and strategically advanced.'
- 'The team is highly collaborative, personable, and deeply committed to understanding the unique challenges faced by their clients. Their approach is not only legally rigorous but also pragmatic and solutions-focused.'
- 'The team work seamlessly across disciplines, and their ability to engage with both internal stakeholders and external experts makes them a true partner in navigating complex environmental issues.'
- 'Maddocks also stand out for their commitment to their clients with their forward-thinking mindset, their collaborative ethos and client-first approach.'
- 'I cannot recommend the Maddocks Environment and Planning team highly enough. Their expertise, professionalism, and genuine engagement make them an invaluable asset in any complex environmental matter.’
‘Michael Winram brings a rare combination of deep legal acumen and technical understanding to the table.'
- 'Rosalie Byrne is a standout litigation partner, who has gained the complete trust of her clients through her leadership, knowledge and work ethic. She is a client focused lawyer, with outstanding technical expertise and a genuine understanding of the broader impacts of PFAS outside of the litigation process.'
Key clients
- Airservices
- City of Parramatta Council
- City of Port Phillip
- Infrastructure NSW
- Greater Shepparton City Council
- New South Wales Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water
- City of Greater Dandenong
- Minister for Planning, Victoria
- New South Wales Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water
- Transport Canberra and City Services Directorate and Infrastructure Canberra
- Indara Digital infrastructure
- JDH Capital
- Cardinia Shire Council
- Frankston City Council
- Goulburn-Murray Water
- Frankston City Council
- Various Victorian Local councils
- City of Greater Bendigo
- City of Parramatta Council
- City of Yarra
Work highlights
Advised and represented Airservices Australia in a landmark project addressing the contamination of per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) at over 30 airports across Australia.
Representing Port Phillip City Council in the Fishermans Bend redevelopment, helping to shape a $2.65 billion infrastructure contributions plan.
Advising Infrastructure NSW on a planning agreement and infrastructure contributions for the Blackwattle Bay Precinct, as well as drafting public domain works deeds which are a requirement of the planning agreement.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Breellen Warry
Practice head
Michael Winram; Maria Marshall
Other key lawyers
Breellen Warry; Patrick Ibbotson; Terry Montebello; Rosalie Byrne