Hollingdales, Allens construct a merger

Construction law specialists Hollingdales will merge with Asia Pacific law firm Allens Arthur Robinson on November 1 in response to the high level of activity in the resources and construction sectors.

Michael Hollingdale, who established Hollingdales in 1995 after leaving Freehill Hollingdale and Page (now Freehills), said the decision to join Allens Arthur Robinson was directly related to the booming resources sector in Western Australia.

“We are a relatively small firm and we need to have the capacity to meet the demands of clients in major projects,” Mr Hollingdale said.

“There has been dramatic growth in the resources and infrastructure sector, which has prompted the merger.

“Allens’ Perth office has impressed the local market with its rapid growth and approach to service, which has seen it win an enviable client list particularly in the energy, resources and infrastructure sectors.

“We are also looking for a springboard into South-East Asia, where Allens has a number of offices.

“Our team looks forward to adding to the reputation of Allens in the construction sector for local, national and international clients.”

Mr Hollingdale said he would join the eight current Perth partners at Allens, with all of Hollingdales’ eight staff moving to the new operation.

Mr Hollingdale has practised in WA since 1985 and was head contractor at Bishop’s See, Central Park, Exchange Plaza, and the QV1 building, and has advised on numerous Main Roads projects, Morley Shopping Centre redevelopment, New MetroRail, and the Public Transport Authority.

In the resources sector he has advised on include Birla Nifty Mine, the expansion of Bounty Mine, the Bulong Nickel Project, and the Bunbury Reservoir.

Allens Arthur Robinson Perth practice director Nic Tolé said Allens wanted to have more capacity in construction, and was delighted to have lured some of the best construction lawyers in WA.

“Michael is an outstanding practitioner in the area, and although this firm is very much about growing talent from within, when we do go outside we look for the very best in the market,” Mr Tolé said.

“Our Perth office has grown from around eight to over 80 people in the last six years.

“The arrival of Michael and his team adds another chapter to that growth through adding a top-flight construction practice that clients in the West can access.

“It is no secret at the moment in Western Australia that the resources sector is booming and a lot of that is tied to the expansion of mining facilities.”

Mr Tolé said the Allens office would be moving from its current premises in Wesfamers House.

“We are looking at a few options as we will need more room in the medium term, but will be in a position to make a decision in a month or so.”

Allens Arthur Robinson adopted its current name in 2001 when Arthur Robinson and Hedderwicks merged with Sydney firm Allen Allen and Hemsley to form a national practice.