Best Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) Lawyers in Australia

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Finlaysons
Adelaide, Australia

Founded in 1851
100 people in their team
English
Finlaysons is proud of the rich history and legacy which came before us. A history which involves overcoming challenges, reinvention, innovative decisions and hard work. Values which are still a part of the Finlaysons DNA, 150 years later.Our roots are in South Australia. Finlaysons has one of the...
Rowe Bristol Lawyers
Perth, Australia

Founded in 2002
25 people in their team
English
Our Law FirmRowe Bristol Lawyers is a Western Australian based commercial and corporate law firm specialising in the areas of litigation, property, contract law, complex debt recovery, insolvency, banking and finance, building and construction, employment and industrial relations, and general civil...
FCG Legal Pty Ltd.
Carlton, Australia

Founded in 2004
50 people in their team
English
About Us - The FirmFCG Legal is an Australian law firm. Its purpose is to provide an efficient and cost effective service to its clients. It is committed to excellence and the maintenance of professional standards of the highest degree.In terms of client expectation, it is attuned towards...
ClarkeKann
Sydney, Australia

Founded in 1965
79 people in their team
English
Founded on a culture of authenticity, ClarkeKann commits people and know how to help our clients make the right decisions and grow in what can be a challenging business environment.Clever thinking, flexibility and a passion for practical business minded solutions inform every aspect of our...
WMM Law
Hobart, Australia

Founded in 2018
9 people in their team
English
WMM Law Hobart, a high quality provider of expert advice and solutions to private clients.  Voted one of the top 35 Boutique Law Firms in Australia 2021 by publication Australasian Lawyer, and listed as one of the Leading Wills & Estates Litigation Law Firms in Tasmania 2021 in Doyle’s...
Bankstown, Australia

Founded in 2016
English
Abbas Jacobs Lawyers is a Sydney based law firm with a national reach across Australia, specializing in insolvency, criminal defence, banking and finance, commercial litigation, and real estate matters. The team provides tailored, practical advice to banks, developers, investment funds, property...
Thomson Geer
Sydney, Australia

Founded in 1885
550 people in their team
English
Welcome From Adrian TembelThis site sets out the basics of what we do and who we are.At Thomson Geer we focus on:delivering best practice legal skills and know how to your commercial environment;ensuring that the above delivery is made efficiently and reliably with an authentic and transparent...
Herbert Geer
Brisbane, Australia

Founded in 1939
500 people in their team
English
About usHerbert Geer is a commercial law firm with offices in Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane. Our dedicated team of people provide services to a wide range of corporate, private and government clients.Our success in building a respected and trusted law firm is driven by the commitment to our...
Terese Wacyk Legal
Adelaide, Australia

Founded in 1970
25 people in their team
English
Terese Wacyk Legal is a team of experienced professionals guided by our principal Terese Wacyk with over 50 years combined experience in all aspects of the law including Family Law,  Commercial, Matrimonial, De Facto, Wills and Estates, Property, Personal Injury and Employment Law.We...
MST Lawyers
Mount Waverley, Australia

Founded in 1950
200 people in their team
English
ABOUT MST LAWYERSMST Lawyers is a progressive law firm comprising some 60 dedicated Lawyers and support staff. MST has grown from a small firm originally founded in the 1950s, into a dynamic mid-tier commercial and private client legal practice.Our clients include individuals, entrepreneurs and...
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About Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) Law in Australia

Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) in Australia refer to collaborative arrangements where government agencies and private sector entities come together to finance, build, and operate infrastructure projects and public services. Common PPP projects include transportation systems, schools, hospitals, utilities, and government accommodation. The PPP model allows governments to leverage private sector expertise, innovation, and funding to deliver long-term infrastructure while sharing risks and rewards. In Australia, PPPs are an established part of infrastructure development, with a mature framework and active participation at the federal, state, and territory levels. The legal environment for PPPs is shaped by a combination of public policy, legislation, and commercial agreements.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Legal advisors play a vital role in PPP processes due to the complex nature of these arrangements. You may need a PPP lawyer if you are:

  • Part of a private consortium bidding for a government PPP project
  • A government official participating in the structuring or oversight of PPP contracts
  • A contractor, financier, or service provider involved in project delivery, funding, or operations
  • Concerned about compliance with laws, permits, environmental obligations, or tender processes
  • Negotiating contract terms, dispute resolution mechanisms, or risk allocations
  • Dealing with contract variations, extensions, or early terminations
  • Managing regulatory and stakeholder issues, including land acquisition or indigenous rights

Given the scale and complexity of PPP agreements, it is critical to seek specialist legal advice early in the process.

Local Laws Overview

Australia does not have a single federal law governing PPPs. Instead, the legal landscape is shaped by state and territory policies, guidelines, and legislation. Key aspects include:

  • Standardisation: Each jurisdiction has its own PPP framework, such as the National PPP Policy and Guidelines, or state-based documents like the Victorian PPP Guideline or NSW PPP Guidelines.
  • Procurement and Contracting: PPPs are usually procured under competitive processes, following strict guidelines to ensure fairness, value for money, and transparency.
  • Legal Structures: PPPs may involve service concessions, leases, design-build-finance-operate (DBFO) models, or other hybrids, each with different legal and risk profiles.
  • Risk Allocation: Contracts carefully set out risk sharing for construction, finance, operations, and external events.
  • Regulatory Oversight: Governmental approvals, compliance with planning laws, environmental regulations, and industry-specific rules are mandatory.
  • Dispute Resolution: Contracts often include detailed mechanisms for resolving disputes, sometimes involving arbitration or expert determination.

Because the frameworks are project-specific and differ across Australian jurisdictions, expert local legal guidance is vital.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Public-Private Partnership (PPP)?

A PPP is a long-term contract between a government agency and a private sector company to deliver infrastructure or public services, combining public oversight with private sector investment and expertise.

Who regulates PPPs in Australia?

PPPs are regulated by the relevant state or territory government departments, with federal involvement for nationally significant projects. Each jurisdiction has specific policies and guidelines for PPPs.

What types of projects use PPPs?

PPPs are commonly used for major transport projects, hospitals, schools, prisons, water facilities, and government buildings.

How are risks managed in PPP contracts?

Risks are allocated between the public and private parties based on which party is best able to manage each risk, as set out in the contract.

Are PPP contracts public documents?

Many contractual documents, including summaries and key terms, are made public, but sensitive commercial information may be confidential.

What is the usual process for awarding a PPP contract?

The usual process involves an open competitive tender, followed by evaluation of proposals, negotiation, and contract award.

Can PPP arrangements be changed after the contract is signed?

Contract variations may be possible but typically require formal agreement and government approval, given the impact on risk and value for money.

What laws apply to PPP projects?

Laws vary by jurisdiction, but generally include procurement laws, planning and environmental laws, contract law, and sometimes legislation specific to major projects.

How are disputes resolved in PPPs?

Most PPP contracts include tailored dispute resolution processes, such as negotiation, mediation, expert determination, or arbitration.

Do PPPs require community consultation?

Many PPP projects, especially large infrastructure ventures, involve public consultation and stakeholder engagement as part of planning and approvals.

Additional Resources

If you are seeking further information or support on PPPs in Australia, consider the following resources:

  • The Infrastructure Australia agency for federal policy and guidance
  • State government infrastructure or treasury departments, such as Infrastructure NSW, Infrastructure Victoria, or Queensland Treasury
  • The National PPP Policy and Guidelines, available from federal and state government websites
  • The Australian Government Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts
  • Industry groups like the Infrastructure Partnerships Australia
  • Legal and professional firms with PPP and infrastructure expertise

Next Steps

If you need legal assistance with a Public-Private Partnership in Australia:

  • Gather any relevant documents or project information you have
  • Identify your main questions or concerns, such as compliance issues, contract terms, or potential disputes
  • Search for legal firms or consultants with proven experience in PPPs and infrastructure law in your jurisdiction
  • Arrange an initial consultation to discuss your matter and clarify their expertise, fees, and proposed approach
  • Ensure your lawyer is familiar with both the legal and commercial aspects of PPP projects
  • Stay informed throughout the process and ask for regular updates and clear explanations

Taking early and specialist legal advice will help you navigate the complexities of PPPs and achieve the right outcome for your interests.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Australia through a curated and pre-screened list of qualified legal professionals. Our platform offers rankings and detailed profiles of attorneys and law firms, allowing you to compare based on practice areas, including Public-Private Partnerships (PPP), experience, and client feedback.

Each profile includes a description of the firm's areas of practice, client reviews, team members and partners, year of establishment, spoken languages, office locations, contact information, social media presence, and any published articles or resources. Most firms on our platform speak English and are experienced in both local and international legal matters.

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Disclaimer:

The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation.

We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this page. If you believe any information is incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will review and update it where appropriate.