Local Government and Planning
At Lath and Associates, we provide practical, cost-effective legal services to local councils and government authorities across all aspects of local government and planning law. Our experienced team delivers clear advice, strategic guidance, and strong representation to help clients navigate complex regulatory frameworks with confidence.
Our Core Expertise
We assist councils and public sector clients with:
- Powers and duties under the Local Government Act
- Governance and probity matters
- Tendering and procurement processes
- Prosecutions and compliance
- Waste management and service contracts
- Planning advice and appeals
- Commercial documentation and transactions
- Property, redevelopment, and infrastructure projects
Property, Development & Construction
We support councils in a wide range of development matters, including planning approvals and Class 1 development appeals. Our team focuses on achieving practical outcomes aligned with project objectives and community needs.
Compulsory Acquisition
Our lawyers provide clear guidance on compulsory acquisition processes, ensuring councils meet their legal obligations while managing risks effectively. We assist at every stage, from planning through to resolution.
Planning
We advise on a broad range of planning matters, helping councils manage challenges and deliver sustainable development outcomes.
Why clients choose us:
- We simplify complex planning systems
- We provide practical, solution-focused advice
- We deliver timely support from experienced professionals
- We help achieve balanced urban and regional development
Planning Services Include:
- Strategic planning
- Development contributions
- Development applications and appeals
- Planning agreements
- Heritage and conservation
- Native vegetation and biodiversity matters
- Subdivision and land use
- Crown land issues
- Compensation and valuation
- Environmental and pollution matters
Regulatory & Compliance
We understand the regulatory pressures faced by local government. Our team provides reliable advice to ensure compliance with legal obligations while effectively managing risk.
Workplace Safety
We advise councils on workplace health and safety matters, helping create compliant and safe working environments across all operations.
Governance
With extensive experience in local government, we provide clear and practical advice on governance frameworks, policies, and decision-making processes.
Commercial
Our team supports councils in commercial negotiations, transactions, and disputes. We deliver efficient and commercially sound legal solutions tailored to public sector needs.
Litigation & Dispute Resolution
We offer strategic dispute resolution and litigation services across a wide range of matters. Our approach is practical, cost-effective, and focused on achieving timely outcomes.
We assist with matters involving:
- Local Government legislation
- Environmental and planning laws
- Transport and infrastructure regulations
- Food safety and public health
- Companion animal management
- Workplace and industrial disputes
We represent clients across all major courts and tribunals, delivering strong advocacy and dependable results.
Environment
We provide comprehensive legal support on environmental matters, whether councils act as regulators or operators.
Our team advises on environmental compliance, risk management, and sustainable practices, ensuring obligations are met within operational and development frameworks.
Environmental Services Include:
- Environmental prosecutions and advice
- Waste management and pollution control
- Noise, water, and contamination issues
- Environmental audits and compliance
- Heritage and conservation
- Biodiversity and species protection
- Licensing and regulatory approvals
- Renewable energy and green projects
We also assist with enforcement strategies, staff training, and the development of internal protocols, ensuring informed decision-making from the outset.
Want to know more?
If you’d like to learn how Lath and Associates supports client success and why organisations across Australia choose to work with us, simply get in touch.
We’ll provide a no-obligation discussion to demonstrate the value of our legal expertise and the tailored solutions we can offer.
Our growth and our success, comes from the growth and success of our clients.