Peter Barakate is a Partner in HWL Ebsworth’s Sydney Real Estate and Projects team and an Accredited Specialist in Property Law. He is widely recognised for his deep technical knowledge of NSW property law and his practical experience advising on complex property transactions for both government and private sector clients. His expertise spans compulsory acquisitions, easements, covenants, subdivisions, caveats, contaminated land, and public road matters.
Peter regularly acts for State Government authorities, state-owned corporations and local councils on the acquisition and disposal of land, including Crown and community land. He also advises on Aboriginal land claims and Native Title, and has appeared in the Federal Court in non-claimant applications. His understanding of legislative frameworks and procedural requirements enables him to deliver strategic, compliant solutions in high-stakes property matters.
Expertise
Experience
- Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water Acting on the Reconnecting River Country Program, coordinating extensive due diligence, drafting of landholder agreements, and advising on the easement acquisition program.
- Sydney Water Corporation Acting on multiple compulsory acquisitions of freehold land and easements, and advising on the sale of surplus land and the exercise of statutory powers.
- Sydney Metro Acted on the compulsory acquisition of easements for Sydney Metro train stations, managing statutory compliance and stakeholder negotiations.
- UNSW Acted on the acquisition of major site for student accommodation, coordinating due diligence, contract negotiation, and planning considerations.
- Endeavour Energy Acted on compulsory acquisition of freehold land and easements for infrastructure projects, ensuring compliance with legislative requirements.
- Georges River & Camden Councils Acting on compulsory acquisitions for critical infrastructure, managing procedural obligations and landowner engagement.
- City of Ryde Acted on sale and acquisition of land and negotiation of building management statement for West Ryde Library development.
- Sutherland Shire Council Advised on incorporation of section 358 company for The Pavilion Performing Arts Centre, including governance and property structuring.
