Director profile: David Bannerman

Over the past few years the number of lawyers practicing in strata law has increased but there are only a handful of lawyers with the experience that David Bannerman has gained in that time.

Most SCA (NSW) members may know that David is an accredited property law specialist with the Law Society of NSW but may not realise that he also practices in property construction and development law. His experience spans the best part of 15 years and he has been principal of Bannerman’s Lawyers for the past 10.

When asked what the highlight of his career has been to date, David nominated three things: the successful operation of his law practice for 10 years; gaining LAW9000 certification; and becoming an accredited specialist.

One of David’s career passions is striving to be the best and most innovative. When the new strata laws were introduced, David set about putting together a Compliance Pack for strata managers, which was recently released. This innovative tool helps strata managers to be up to date on all the changes, with videos, documents and articles included.

David’s other passion, which ties in with innovation, is education and training. He likes nothing more than to present the latest legal developments to interested audiences. Most SCA (NSW) members are likely to have attended one of David’s presentations or read his articles which are regularly posted on the website.

David has also contributed greatly to the work SCA (NSW) has done with the NSW Government in getting the new strata laws over the line. Not only that but he has assisted with the education program and continues to do so as the new law changes take effect.

Right now, David believes that every part of the industry must adapt as there are over 400 changes to consider and apply, many with significant and innovative solutions to problems which will need to be road tested. As an example, he cites the new laws around collective sales and the 2% bond defects scheme.

If you’re new to the industry, David has some advice for you. He says it’s a growing area with many different services to be provided and if you know what you like and are good at it, give it a chance. The rewards and satisfaction of doing something you like can be immense.

If you ask him where he’d like to be in 10 years’ time, his answer is simple – pretty much where he is right now, but celebrating 20 years for the practice. A good goal for someone like David who has a genuine desire to provide ongoing information and assistance to the industry. Surely this is something we should all appreciate and admire.