Our Solicitors

Nick Hay

Special Counsel

Nick has been involved in the Townsville legal fraternity since 2004 and  joined our Townsville office in December 2023.

Nick comes to Preston Law with an extensive background in Local Government and property-related law, having worked as a lawyer for Townsville City Council for over 11 years. In that period he has advised Council and assisted operational staff with a diverse range of issues that consistently confront Councils across their diverse range of operations.  He has experience and expertise in advising on and assisting in delivering major projects for Councils.

He has advised on a range of matters within the legislative framework particularly relevant to Councils, including the Local Government Act 2009 and Regulation 2010, Acquisition of Land Act 1967, Planning Act 2016, Land Act 1994 and Crime and Corruption Act 2001. Nick relies on his experience within Council to assist in providing practical advice to Councils to address their legal issues and multitude of legislative responsibilities.

Nick also has a range of commercial, property and planning experience from his time in private practice, both before and after his employment in local government.

Nick has particular experience and expertise in:

• Provision of advice and representation for both Councils and private clients in planning and development matters in the Planning and Environment Court;

• The compulsory acquisition of land by constructing authorities, having represented both Councils and landowners in land acquisition matters;

• Advising Councils and private clients on all matters related to the acquisition, sale, leasing and other dealings related to land and land tenure; and

• Advising Councils on a range of enforcement matters devolved to Council(s), including under the Environmental Protection Act 1994, Planning Act 2016, and Building Act 1975. 

Nick looks forward to the opportunity to assist clients in need of considered legal advice in a collaborative way.