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Big Law

Clifford Chance takes real estate team from Mallesons

A real estate partner and his team of five have moved to Clifford Chance from Mallesons.

July 02, 2026 By Naomi Neilson
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Partner Stuart Dixon-Smith’s arrival at Clifford Chance was welcomed by its global head of real estate, François Bonteil, and Australian managing partner Mark Currell.

Dixon-Smith has extensive experience advising on complex transactions and urban regeneration projects.

 
 

As one of Australia’s leading real estate practitioners, he has worked closely with developers, lenders, and investors across the full life cycle of major property and infrastructure developments.

“I’m delighted to welcome Stuart to the firm.

“His appointment underscores our commitment to supporting clients across the full property life cycle in Australia, regionally and globally – from acquisition, development, leasing and joint ventures through to financing and exit,” Bonteil said.

Dixon-Smith will work closely with recently promoted partner Rebecca Elgar to lead the Australian real estate group.

A team from Clifford Chance – led by partner Philip Podzebenko – recently advised student accommodation provider Scape Australia on its $3.85 billion acquisition of Aveo Group, the largest direct real estate transaction in Australian history.

“Australia’s strong market fundamentals, combined with the rapid expansion of real estate-intensive sectors such as energy and digital infrastructure, continue to drive investor demand,” Currell said.

“Stuart’s arrival significantly enhances our capability in this space and supports our strategic growth ambitions in Australia.”

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Naomi Neilson
Naomi Neilson is a senior journalist with a focus on court reporting for Lawyers Weekly, as well as other titles under the Momentum Media umbrella. She regularly writes about matters before the Federal Court of Australia, the Supreme Courts, the Civil and Administrative Tribunals, and the Fair Work Commission. Naomi has also published investigative pieces about the legal profession, including sexual harassment and bullying, wage disputes, and staff exoduses. You can email Naomi at: naomi.neilson@momentummedia.com.au.