Robert Holbrook is a Senior Associate at Simmons Wolfhagen with a practice specialising in planning, local government and environmental law. He frequently advises on complex planning, building, plumbing, environmental and associated matters, and represents clients in contested proceedings in the Tasmanian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (‘TASCAT’) and courts.
Robert works closely with his clients to provide clear, practical and timely advice. His work covers a broad range of matters, including:
- Advising on the interpretation, application and enforcement of planning schemes, permits and associated legislation
- Initiating and defending planning, building and related appeals in TASCAT
- Initiating and defending planning scheme amendments and combined permit application before the Tasmanian Planning Commission
- Providing general advice to councils and state-owned corporations regarding their statutory powers and associated obligations
- Enforcement and prosecution for matters relating to planning, building, plumbing and the environment
- Judicial and administrative review of decisions of public authorities, including councils.
Robert was formerly on the executive of the Southern Early Career Lawyers Committee and has published research in the Environmental and Planning Law Journal relating to cultural heritage offsets and the opportunities for policies and legislation to deal with their increasing use.