David Archer

Profile

David is a highly experienced commercial property lawyer with more than 40 years’ experience advising clients across the full spectrum of property transactions. He is recognised for his deep understanding of the property market and his ability to provide advice that is both legally rigorous and commercially practical.

David acts for vendors, purchasers, developers and government agencies on complex commercial, industrial and residential property matters. His practice spans acquisitions and disposals, leasing, property development and subdivisions, as well as planning-related advice. Clients value his ability to anticipate issues early and guide transactions through to completion with clarity and confidence.

With decades of experience in the property industry, David brings a steady, pragmatic approach to transactions of all sizes. His drafting is precise and commercially focused, ensuring that complex arrangements are clearly expressed while remaining robust and enforceable.

Areas of Focus

• Commercial, industrial and residential property transactions
• Property development and sales
• Commercial, industrial and retail leasing
• Subdivisions and planning issues
• Property taxation, including GST, stamp duty and land tax
• Property-related finance and security arrangements

Experience & Authority

Commercial Property Transactions
David advises on a wide range of commercial property transactions, including drafting, reviewing and negotiating contracts of sale for complex acquisitions and disposals. He regularly acts on transactions involving multiple stakeholders, layered risk and tight commercial timeframes.

Leasing & Property Development
David has extensive experience advising on commercial, industrial and retail leasing, acting for both landlords and tenants. His work includes negotiating lease terms, managing risk allocation and advising on compliance with retail leasing legislation. He also advises developers on property development agreements, building contracts and land subdivisions for both residential and commercial developments.

Subdivisions & Planning Advice
David regularly advises on land subdivisions and planning matters, assisting clients to navigate regulatory requirements and planning approvals. His practical approach helps clients move projects forward while managing compliance and timing risk.

Property Taxation & Revenue Advice
In addition to transactional work, David has significant experience advising on GST, stamp duty and land tax issues as they relate to property transactions. His advice covers real estate mortgages, commercial loan securities and complex dealings involving property, ensuring taxation implications are properly addressed as part of the overall transaction strategy.

Style & Approach
David is known for his pragmatic, results-oriented approach and his ability to deliver commercial certainty. Clients appreciate his calm judgement, clear communication and focus on ensuring transactions are completed efficiently, securely and with minimal disruption.