As a special counsel, Newton-Brown becomes the first planning expert within the Melbourne office. He said that his service on the Melbourne City Council enables him to offer HWL clients a unique perspective and understanding of the political influences on planning decisions and the best approaches to planning issues.

Over the past 12 years, Newton-Brown has served as a barrister in Victoria, and has had extensive experience as an advocate at the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT).

“This forms the ideal base for me to provide advice and assistance to HWL’s commercial clients through the appeals processes,” he said.

“Given my former work as a barrister, I intend to handle most VCAT appeals myself. This direct approach maximises cost effectiveness for my clients.”

Newton-Brown is also skilled in assisting clients to obtain development permits for projects across the entire range of commercial developments — from offices to retailing, leisure and recreational outlets, rural subdivisions and eco-tourism facilities — and in dealing with heritage issues and licensing.

“We’re especially enthusiastic about [Newton-Brown] joining us in Melbourne,” said managing partner Juan Martinez. “He comes with high level expertise that is invaluable for a firm that places utmost importance on its dynamic culture and aggressive market strategy.”