Punch joins the firm after six years with Herbert Geer, where he was also a special counsel. Prior to that, he was a lawyer at Thomsons Lawyers. The two mid-tier firms recently announced plans to merge in March, with the new firm to be rebranded Thomson Geer.

Having worked in planning law for the past 13 years, Punch said: “The NSW planning system has undergone a significant change and clients need specialised knowledge and experience at the state and local government levels, delivered by the firm.”

Punch also specialises in government, litigation and dispute resolution and industrial relations.

He gained a law degree while in Parliament and, in 2000, began practising as a lawyer.

Landerer & Company has nine directors and five senior associates among a total of 40 staff.