Brian Phillips

Brian Phillips is a highly experienced legal professional focused on town planning issues and related legal matters. As the Principal of his own firm since 2018, Brian advises clients on a comprehensive range of town planning concerns including the preparation and submission of Development Applications (DAs), Statements of Environmental Effects, and modification applications. He is adept at navigating the complexities of exempt and complying development, and skillfully represents clients in court for Class 1 merit appeals when council decisions on DAs are disputed. Brian's proficiency is exemplified by his recent success in advocating for a client at the Sutherland Council, leading to a significant amendment to the LEP 2015 that allowed for strata subdivision of dual occupancies. His expertise extends to resolving neighbour disputes involving trees, dividing fences, and noise, where he has appeared in the Land & Environment Court and various tribunals. With a robust background as a Senior Associate at both MCW Legal and Macedone Christie Willis, Brian has consistently provided exceptional legal counsel on town planning, local government, environmental law, and civil litigation. His appearances span several courts including the Land & Environment, Local, District, and Supreme Courts, and he is also known for his presentations to community groups on town planning and related topics. Brian's academic credentials include a Bachelor of Legal Studies from Macquarie University and a Bachelor of Urban & Regional Planning with Honours II from the University of New England. His legal acumen is complemented by early career experience as a Solicitor at Hannigans, where he handled a broad array of legal issues including criminal and workers compensation.