K&L Gates‘ well-established client base includes international, national and regional airlines as well as major Australian airports. Typical mandates for the team include licence agreements, airport infrastructure projects, regulatory compliance and aviation litigation. Leading the practice fromBrisbane, Tom Young brings to bear extensive experience in handling airport privatisations and providing advice on intrusions into prescribed airspace. Julie Brown is recommended for her expertise in dealing with aviation regulators, while Chris Wille combines his knowledge of the aviation sector with his expertise in real estate to advise on airport developments. Sandra Steele is a key advisor for contentious and non-contentious construction law matters. The team was further strengthened by the addition of Paul Lalich, who brings experience in infrastructure agreements, statutory approvals and environmental regulation, from HWL Ebsworth in August 2024.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Accolades
Client satisfaction: Lawyer & team quality
Client satisfaction: NPS ®
Key clients
- Cairns Airport Pty Ltd
- Sydney Airport
- Shire of Ashburton
- Kookaburra Aerospace Pty Ltd
- Brisbane Airport
Work highlights
Providing environment and planning legal advice to Sydney Airport Corporation in relation to the preparation of the new Airport Master Plan 2045 and Airport Environmental Strategy.
Acted in connection with Cairns Airport's first short-term accommodation facility.
Advising the Shire of Ashburton on the drafting of a ground handling agent (GHA) licence agreement for the Onslow Airport.
Lawyers
Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Practice head
Tom Young
Other key lawyers
Julie Brown; Chris Wille; Sandra Steele; Paul Lalich