Craig Sawford

Craig Sawford serves as Special Counsel, bringing nearly 25 years of expertise in building and construction law to his role. His extensive experience includes representing a diverse array of clients such as government entities, major commercial construction firms, and smaller domestic builders and subcontractors. Craig is accomplished in drafting and reviewing construction contracts and subcontracts in both commercial and domestic sectors. His portfolio includes working with key industry players like major builders, developers, the former Queensland Building Services Authority, Master Builders Queensland, and the Swimming Pools and Spas Association of Queensland. Craig maintains a robust professional relationship with industry bodies such as Master Builders Queensland (MBQ) and the Housing Industry Association (HIA), contributing his expertise on several committees. He plays an active role in committees like the Housing Sector Committee for MBQ and the South-East Queensland Technical and Legal Services Committee for HIA. His proficiency extends to security of payment issues, where he handles the preparation of payment claims and schedules, adjudication applications and responses, and court applications to challenge adjudication decisions. Craig represents clients across all court jurisdictions and the Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal in construction litigation, often engaging in alternative dispute resolution and mediation to achieve favourable outcomes. His legal acumen has been recognised in Doyle's legal practice guide as a leading Brisbane Construction & Infrastructure lawyer over several years. In addition to his practice, Craig is an associate member of MBQ and an active participant in various legal and industry committees. He is a founding member of the Building Disputes Practitioners’ Society (Queensland Chapter) and is affiliated with the Queensland Law Society. Craig's academic credentials include a Bachelor of Laws with honours and a Bachelor of Business in Accounting with distinction, both from the Queensland University of Technology.