Michael Stannard

Michael Stannard is a Partner in Mellor Olsson’s Property team. His practice focuses on major property transactions and development projects across South Australia.

Michael advises clients on the acquisition, disposal, development and leasing of commercial, industrial, residential and agricultural property. He has particular strength in high-value and strategically significant transactions, including major development and construction projects, infrastructure and renewable energy developments, and complex leasing transactions.

He acts for developers, investors, asset owners, property funds, commercial entities, landlords and tenants, community and strata corporations, and high‑net‑worth individuals. Michael is known for providing practical, commercially focused advice on transactions where structuring, risk allocation and timely delivery are critical.

Michael regularly leads significant and complex property acquisitions and divestments, including development sites and income-producing portfolios. He advises across the full transaction lifecycle, with a particular focus on due diligence, transaction structuring, negotiated risk allocation and contract negotiation.

He has extensive experience drafting and negotiating transaction documentation, including contracts for acquisition and disposal, development agreements (including off‑the‑plan contracts, encumbrances, and community scheme documentation), construction contracts (including design and construct arrangements), option and land access agreements, funding and security documentation, and community and strata title documentation.

Michael has particular depth in leasing matters and frequently advises on high‑value and large‑scale portfolio transactions. He acts for both landlords and tenants across commercial, industrial and agricultural assets, providing end‑to‑end leasing advice – from drafting and negotiating tailored lease agreements, agreements for lease and incentive structures through to renewals, variations and enforcement.

He is also highly experienced in infrastructure and renewable energy projects, advising on land access arrangements, lease structuring, easements and associated documentation for large‑scale wind farms, solar farms, battery projects, telecommunications leases and other significant infrastructure developments.

Michael is a member of the Property Council of Australia and the Urban Development Institute of Australia, and sits on the Property Council’s Tax and Economic Trends Committee and the Law Society of South Australia’s Property Committee. He is regularly engaged to present to industry and professional audiences on property and development matters.

Michael has been recognised as a Rising Star by Doyle’s Guide and Australasian Lawyer.