Construction & Infrastructure
LK works with clients on major infrastructure and residential projects to manage risk, navigate roadblocks and resolve disputes, where technical complexity, tighttimelines and operational risk converge. We have experience with different contracting frameworks, construction methods and the particular challenges with large-scale infrastructure projects, enabling our team to anticipate issues, protect commercial positions and keep projects moving. Our focus is on helping clients deliver safe, compliant and commercially durable projects.
Our experience
New Royal Adelaide Hospital
Represented the South Australian Government in multi-party litigation before the Supreme Court of South Australia and the Federal Court of Australia, and in ACICA arbitrations arising from the AU$2.5 billion public–private partnership for the design, construction and operation of the state’s major health facility.
Infrastructure Redevelopment Project
Acting for the Government of South Australia in a construction dispute arising from the upgrade of the ferry terminals for Kangaroo Island, including representation in the Supreme Court proceedings commenced by the contractor.
Cement Australia
Represented a cement producer in Federal Court proceedings concerning the design and construction of steel silos at a terminal facility, involving claims of breach of contract, negligence and misleading and deceptive conduct following the collapse of one of the silos.
State-owned Oil Refinery
Represented a state-owned oil company in an ICC arbitration concerning delays in the upgrade of a refinery.
South Australian Desalination Plant
Engaged by the South Australian Government to investigate delays, defects, claims and exposure arising from the construction of the State’s AU$2 billion desalination plant, and to advise on the Government’s legal and strategic position.
Commercial Property Fraud
Represented a group of investors seeking to recover more than AU$20 million invested in commercial property.
Construction and Engineering Negligence
Represented an international wine producer in Federal Court proceedings involving breach of contract, negligence and misleading and deceptive conduct claims relating to the construction of a large winery and processing facility.
Residential Projects
Advised on numerous disputes involving defective works and delays in residential developments in South Australia and Victoria, and represented a party to a joint venture dispute concerning the development and operation of a residential complex.
Case Study
Cement Australia
LK acted for Cement Australia Pty Ltd in a dispute with an engineering services provider and building certifiers regarding the refurbishment of a storage facility and the design and construction of steel silos at a terminal site.
The works had reached substantial completion and the silos’ support structure had been certified as structurally adequate and compliant under the Development Act 1993 (SA). Shortly after filling commenced one of the silos collapsed.
LK commenced Federal Court proceedings for breach of contract, negligence and misleading and deceptive conduct in relation to the design, construction and collapse of the silo and further claims relating to the assessment and certification of the structures. The matter settled confidentially on favourable terms for our client.
