November 2, 2026
Welcome to the November edition of Projects & Construction Monthly.
This edition addresses:
- Recent Construction News;
- Case summary: Rawcorp Pty Ltd v MDP No 15 Pty Ltd [2026] QSC 38 (Wilson J);
- LPC Lawyers’ recently published article, ‘Drafting Collaborative Contracts’; and
- Opportunities to join the LPC Lawyers’ team.
Recent construction news
Preferred Design Revealed for Bribie Island Bridge
The Queensland Government has unveiled its preferred design for a new four-lane Bribie Island Bridge, which is expected to double traffic capacity and improve safety and connectivity between Bribie Island and the mainland.
The project will also see the existing two-lane bridge retained for pedestrians and cyclists, providing a dedicated walking and cycling connection.
Geotechnical investigations are expected to begin shortly to assess ground and seabed conditions. The findings will inform the detailed design, environmental assessments and project approvals.
Community consultation on the preferred design will remain open until 27 November 2026.
Construction timeframes are yet to be confirmed and will depend on the progress of the detailed design and approvals process.
New Developments Planned for South Brisbane
Plans are progressing for several major developments in South Brisbane, including the redevelopment of former industrial sites into residential and mixed-use precincts.
Aria Property Group has announced plans to redevelop the former Bond’s Sweet Factory site on Melbourne Street into a precinct known as Sanctuary.
The development will include three residential towers, five laneways, retail and dining spaces, restored heritage buildings and a public park. The first three residential tower are expected to be completed in 2029.
Nearby, Stockwell group has also proposed a separate development at the Parmalat milk factory site, including residential towers, a 400-room hotel and an entertainment precinct ahead of the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
Works Begin on Eagle Farm Grandstand Redevelopment
Early works have commenced on the $100 million redevelopment of Eagle Farm Racecourse, with Woollam Constructions appointed to deliver the first stage.
Stage 1 includes demolition of the ageing John Power Stand, upgrades to the adjoining Heritage Stand, site preparation and installation of temporary facilities to allow racing to continue during construction.
The Queensland Government has committed $25 million towards the first two stages of the project, which will also include refurbishment of the Paddock Stand and works on the Heritage Stand.
Stage 1 is expected to be completed by May 2027, with Stage 2 commencing after the 2027 Queensland Racing Carnival and expected to be completed by May 2028.
Case Summary: Rawcorp Pty Ltd v MDP No 15 Pty Ltd [2026] QSC 38 (Wilson J)
The judgment of Rawcorp Pty Ltd v MDP No 15 Pty Ltd [2026] QSC 38 was handed down on 19 March 2026 by Wilson J. The case concerns a dispute over a principal’s right to access retention monies under a construction contract.
Facts
Rawcorp entered into a $25.2 million contract with MDP to design and construct an apartment complex in Coolangatta.
Practical completion was achieved approximately 90 days late. MDP subsequently claimed around $2.26 million in consequential losses arising from the delay and gave Rawcorp seven days’ notice of its intention to access the retention monies.
MDP drew down $740,779 in retention monies. Rawcorp sought an injunction to prevent MDP from dealing with the funds until the dispute was resolved.
Issue
The key issues were whether MDP was entitled to access the retention monies before its claim for damages had been determined, and whether the notice requirements under section 67J of the Queensland Building and Construction Commission Act 1991 (Qld) (QBCC Act) applied.
Decision
Wilson J dismissed Rawcorp’s application for an injunction. Her Honour found that:
- Clause 5.2(b) allowed MDP to access security for liquidated or unliquidated claims upon seven days’ written notice;
- MDP did not need to prove its entitlement to damages, provided its claim was arguable and not fraudulent, speculative or untenable;
- Section 67J of the QBCC Act did not apply to unliquidated damages, so 28 days’ notice was not required; and
- MDP was entitled to access the retention monies and that the balance of convenience did not favour an injunction.
The decision highlights the importance of the wording of security clauses, particularly where a principal seeks to access security before a dispute has been resolved.
Read the full judgement here.
LPC Lawyers’ recently published article ‘Drafting Collaborative Contracts’
LPC Lawyers’ recently published article explores the key principles of drafting collaborative contracts and the importance of ensuring these principles are reflected throughout contract negotiations to support effective project delivery.
The article discusses cooperative values, obligations and interfaces, and how these can be incorporated into construction contracts to encourage collaboration between parties.
Read the full article here.
LPC Lawyers’ Continued Expansion
LPC Lawyers is looking to hire with opportunities for growth in our expanding practice.
Litigation Lawyers (1-3 years PAE)
Working closely with an ex-top tier partner, this role is ideal for a candidate who is highly motivated and has experience in drafting correspondence, simple pleadings, briefs for Counsel, and some client advisory work.
For more information about our current opportunities visit our website here or to apply, please email your resume and cover letter to Jenna at Jenna@lpclawyers.com.