Development Victoria appoints new General Counsel

Development Victoria has appointed leading real estate lawyer Angela Skandarajah as its new General Counsel.

Currently Partner and National Head of Real Estate, Environment and Planning at Minter Ellison’s Melbourne office, Ms Skandarajah has private and public sector experience in all aspects of real estate law, with particular expertise in major projects and developments.

She will join Development Victoria in early July 2017, two months after the new statutory authority was established, following the merger of Places Victoria and Major Projects Victoria.

In her role at Development Victoria, Ms Skandarajah will lead the legal team, providing in-house legal counsel and oversight of corporate governance.

“Given Development Victoria has only recently commenced operations, it is a really exciting time to be joining the organisation,” Ms Skandarajah said.

“Development Victoria will play a pivotal role in developing, renewing and revitalising public land, as well as delivering civic projects that will have long-term benefits for the State.  I am looking forward to playing a part in this.”

Throughout her 20 years in practice, Ms Skandarajah has been recognised for her excellence in the field of real estate law, and she is also a regular contributor to industry bodies on development and real estate legal issues.

Long-serving Legal Counsel, Leo Hennessy, recently announced his retirement after more than eight years with the organisation (as Places Victoria and VicUrban).

Development Victoria’s Chief Executive Officer, Gregory Anderson, said “We are thrilled that Development Victoria has attracted a candidate of Angela Skandarajah’s calibre and experience.”

“Angela’s experience working with government and as a leading real estate lawyer will make her a great asset for Development Victoria and I’m pleased to welcome her to the team.”