Since 1996, Minter Ellison has been the principal legal advisor to VicUrban (formerly Docklands Authority) on this A$12 billion development.  Minter Ellison advises VicUrban on all aspects of the sale to, and development by, the private sector of the Docklands precincts through a competitive public bid process – from Telstra Dome to the centrepiece A$1.8 billion Victoria Harbour project. 

At the forefront of all government commercial activity is the need to be accountable and transparent.  Monitored by a probity auditor, Minter Ellison advised on the EOI and Tender guidelines and Requests for Tender in respect of the bid terms, bid valuation and the bidding and negotiation process.

The role has also included:

• developing a comprehensive risk matrix to ensure appropriate allocation of risks and responsibilities between public and private entities and proposing mitigation strategies for all risks associated with the projects.  The matrix was subsequently distilled to a Treasury-approved risk allocation table which is included in all development agreements
  
  
• drafting a range of contracts, including consultant’s agreements
  
  
• the creation of a comprehensive development agreement which describes the evolution of the development process from planning and other statutory approvals, design and construction obligations, and obligations regarding contribution to public or common infrastructure, public art and, of course, payment obligations
  
  
• conducting extensive negotiations with the majority of Australia's leading developers and financial institutions
  
  
• negotiation and bid development with the aim of facilitating a successful public-private sector partnership
  
  
• preparation of risk matrix relating to the delivery of water, power, gas drainage/sewerage and transport infrastructure to the 220 hectare development site
  
  
• drafting and negotiation of trunk infrastructure construction documentation
  
  
• establishment of a comprehensive route map highlighting key project milestones.