Ms Johns is an accredited specialist by the Law Institute of Victoria, focusing on planning, environmental, heritage, local government and administrative law and property development.

Her experience in town planning issues includes due diligence advice, negotiations with stakeholders, applications for planning permits, rezonings, VCAT hearings, panel hearings, section 173 agreements, Supreme Court appeals, coordination of expert consultants, and enforcement issues.

She also advises on contaminated land and clean-up issues in the context of environmental approvals for developments.

“Amanda was one of the first lawyers appointed a special counsel at MinterEllison and she spent 18 years with us before moving in-house with a property development company. We are delighted to welcome her back,” said Angela Skandarajah, head of MinterEllison's real estate, environment and planning practice.

“She adds high-calibre credentials to our team in Melbourne through her exposure to a wide range of property development matters gained from her roles in the industry, private practice and through her involvement with organisations such as the Heritage Council.”

MinterEllison recently appointed partner Mary MacLeod to its Melbourne office and partner Anthony Portas to its Brisbane office.