With a particularly active infrastructure projects and construction team, Minter Ellison’s practice spans an array of industries, including utilities, health and renewable energy. The team is geared to support clients on financing arrangements, business case development, project documentation, and dispute resolution. Based in Melbourne, Cameron Ross leads the construction business unit, whilst Owen Cooper heads the infrastructure industry team. Cooper regularly advises on all elements of major PPP transactions, including procurement and contractual matters. Stewart Nankervis is a key contact for clients in the road, rail, transport, energy and healthcare infrastructure sectors, while Peter Pether, who joined from King & Wood Mallesons in January 2025, is a trusted expert in the disputes sphere. Elizabeth McKechnie is especially well positioned to handle major contract negotiations in the property development and large-scale infrastructure sectors.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • 'Partner led work with good back up from senior associates.'
  • 'Stewart Nankervis has strong experience and knowledge of market movements and positions. He is easy to work with and engages with opponents with the appropriate finesse.'
  • 'The team has competency in wide areas of law. Particularly good for South Australian clients due to their interstate expertise and SA presence. Good understanding of construction procurement market dynamics.'
  • 'Stewart Nankervis possesses canniness and commerciality.'
  • 'Leah Wright is solutions focused.'
  • 'Jeremy Hill is a straight shooter.'

Key clients

  • John Holland Pty Ltd
  • Bouygues Construction Australia
  • Alstom Transport Australia Pty Ltd
  • RATP Dev Australia Pty Ltd
  • Government of South Australia
  • Hydro Tasmania
  • Dexus
  • Australian Government
  • CPB Contractors Pty Ltd
  • Acciona Infrastructure Projects Australia Pty Ltd
  • CIMIC Group Limited
  • Lendlease Corporation Limited

Work highlights

Advising members of the TransitLinX consortium in relation to the alliance and franchising package for systems and infrastructure works, and operations and maintenance of the Suburban Rail Loop (SRL) East network.
Acting on behalf of a Lendlease and CPB joint venture (LAJV) and their parent companies in proceedings brought by Transurban in the Queensland Supreme Court relating to the design and construction of the Gateway Upgrade Project.
Advising the Victorian Department of Health on the procurement and delivery of the AUD 900 million New Melton Hospital Project, a health infrastructure project that will add significant capacity and services to support the growing Melbourne's outer west communities.

Lawyers

Hall of Fame

The lawyers at the very top of the profession, widely known and respected by peers and clients for their longstanding involvement in market-leading work.

Leading partners

The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.

Elizabeth McKechnie

Practice head

Cameron Ross; Owen Cooper

Other key lawyers

Stewart Nankervis; Peter Pether; Elizabeth McKechnie; Leah Wright; Jeremy Hill