Government

What we do

In operation in Queensland since 1954, our firm understands the political and social framework within which the Queensland Government (and its entities) and local councils operate. We have developed an approach to representation, advice and litigation that focuses on the critical issues. We ensure a fair, cost-effective and where required, politically sensitive resolution of all legal issues which may arise.

Because of our experience in this field, we are pre-qualified suppliers of legal services to local governments and associated entities throughout Queensland. This means we can be engaged quickly and cost-effectively — either directly or through the LocalBuy website

Walsh Halligan Douglas is a preferred legal services provider with Skills QLD for review of industry agreements and the terms and conditions of a new State Government initiative for supporting womens’ scholarships.

We have acted for the Nominal Defendant for over 20 years, assisting the Nominal Defendant to resolve personal injury claims, and seeking recovery of monies paid on finalised claims where the Nominal Defendant has a statutory right of recovery.

Where we can help

Walsh Halligan Douglas can provide solutions to Queensland Local and State Governments in the areas of:

Projects and property

We advise Government on:

• Easements
• Land Act applications
• Land acquisitions (compulsory and negotiated)
• Land sales
• Land sales
• Leases and tenancies
• Major infrastructure projects
• Transfers and sales

Litigation

We advise and represent Authorities on matters relating to judicial review, class actions, trade practices compliance, discrimination claims and all matters where an Authority as an organisation is challenged judicially.

Specifically, we advise Authorities on:

• Anti-discrimination legislation
• Workers compensation legislation
• Consumer law
• Roads and transport legislation
• Sewerage and water legislation
• Workplace health and safety disputes
• Discrimination
• Insurance

Insurance and risk management

We are instructed by the State Government and one of Queensland’s leading specialist insurance practices. We have a proven track record of providing our clients with exceptional service and successful outcomes.

Our approach to insurance litigation on our clients’ behalf ensures that we focus on the critical issues of each matter, moving toward a fair settlement and cost effective litigation of claims, in a timely manner. The key to our approach is the early resolution of claims and the implementation of risk minimisation programs and procedures.

Our team has extensive experience in mediating and settling insurance claims without the overuse of Counsel, by way of informal and formal conferences.

Debt recovery

Our Debt Recovery team recovers outstanding debts owed to authorities. Drawing upon decades of acting for businesses and insurers, the government debt recovery actions are expedited through our internally developed and refined mechanism with great success and on variable fee rates.

A word on fees

We understand that Government requires flexibility and certainty on fees. In most areas we can provide a choice or combination of capped or staged fees, retainer agreements or hourly rates.

Let’s start talking

Our Government team would love to hear from you to discuss how we can help.

Jack Power
Steven Morris
Spencer Slasberg