David is a highly respected local government, planning and environmental law specialist. In his career he has established some of Sydney’s most successful local government, planning and governance practices – evidenced by clients including several high profile NSW councils, industry leading developers, and private clients across the State.

As a leading Solicitor Advocate in NSW, David has personally appeared in over 300 contested hearings (including prosecutions) and throughout his career has achieved a success rate exceeding 85%.

David is a sought after speaker on a wide range of topics and has appeared on radio and television interviews dealing with public liability in Local Government affecting the use of public parks (2GB radio), delays in the administration of justice (Channel 10 news) and has been a guest speaker at forums on recent developments in local government and planning law.

He has acted as an independent Investigator assisting a number of councils with forensic research into failed property development deals and proposed projects. In this regard he advised Woollahra Council on the failed Scott’s Development of its Cross Street Public car park, Liverpool City Council in relation to the failed Oasis Development and Blue Mountains City Council on a proposed aquatic centre.

He has acted as a Conduct Reviewer and is acknowledged as an industry leader in governance and Council Meeting Practice and procedure. He produced the only ‘Guide to NSW Local Government Meetings’ practice in 1996.

David was a part time lecturer in Local Government and Planning Law at the University of New South Wales (UNSW) for 15 years.