HopgoodGanim Lawyers has continued to build its Real Estate and Development focus with the appointment of Jacqueline Vera as Special Counsel in its Brisbane Commercial Property team.
Jacqui will join the firm in July from Corrs Chambers Westgarth, bringing extensive experience in development projects, retail and commercial leasing, and capital transactions across all real estate asset classes.
An emerging leader in the property sector, Ms Vera has significant experience advising on major developments and government projects, having worked on a number of landmark projects across Queensland. She acts for a broad client base including institutional and private developers, major tenants, and landlords.
Don Battams (Left) and Jacqui Vera (Right) pictured in foreground, with other senior Commercial Property team members in Brisbane
Managing Partner Luke Mountford said Jacqui’s appointment reflects the firm’s continued investment in the Real Estate and Development sector.
“We are pleased to welcome Jacqui to the firm,” Mr Mountford said. “She is a highly capable practitioner with strong experience across development, leasing and capital transactions, and we are looking forward to the contribution she will make to our clients and our team.”
Ms Vera’s appointment further strengthens one of the largest property law teams in the state, with HopgoodGanim’s Brisbane Commercial Property team comprising almost 30 team members, including four Partners.
"Our Commercial Property team remains one of the largest dedicated property teams in Queensland,” Mr Mountford said.
We have been deliberate in shaping the team we need to support our clients, particularly those engaging in complex transactions and development projects.”
Led by Partner Don Battams, Jacqui will work with the wider Commercial Property team to service and grow its pipeline of work across property transactions, developments, leasing, seniors living (including retirement villages and land lease communities), and government projects.
Jacqui will support the firm’s Real Estate and Development sector team to deliver integrated advice across the entire development lifecycle, while also contributing to the firm’s Government priority market, drawing on her experience as a trusted adviser to several state and local government entities.
Her appointment follows HopgoodGanim’s recent growth in its property capability, including the acquisition of a property and leasing team of eight in February 2025 and the appointment of Commercial Property Partner Ryan Chorley in Perth in June 2024.
Mr Mountford said the firm’s investment also reflects a focus on developing future leaders.
“We are continuing to invest in the next generation of leaders across the firm,” he said. "Jacqui is a strong example of the calibre of talent we are bringing into the business, and we are committed to providing the environment and opportunities for practitioners like her to build long-term careers with us.”
The firm looks forward to welcoming Jacqui to the team as it continues to strengthen its capabilities and future leadership bench.