
Commercial, Franchising & Construction Lawyers
Whelan Lawyers are experienced Commercial, Franchising & Construction Lawyers based in Melbourne; every matter is guided by exceptional lawyers who truly understand both business and the construction industry.
Founded by Neda Whelan, our practice brings a unique perspective shaped by extensive experience across both private practice and in-house legal roles within established Australian businesses. This dual perspective - understanding legal requirements from both advisor and business operator viewpoints, enables us to provide guidance that serves real-world commercial needs rather than theoretical legal perfection alone.
Commercial Lawyers Who Know Business
Your commercial decisions deserve more than a templated contract. Our commercial lawyers provide clear, tailored legal advice grounded in commercial reality, not legal theory.
Our commercial lawyers can assist with:
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Business structuring and restructures
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Commercial contracts (drafting, review, negotiation)
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Shareholder and director agreements
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Business sales and acquisitions
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PPSR and security interests
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Commercial dispute strategy
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Confidentiality, IP and day-to-day advisory
Franchising Lawyers Who Understand Scale
Franchising is a growth model, but it can quickly unravel without the right legal foundations. Our franchise lawyers support emerging and established franchisors with advice that’s legally sound, commercially sharp, and operationally practical.
Our franchise lawyers can assist with:
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Franchise agreement drafting and advice
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Disclosure documentation and compliance
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Franchise system structuring and reviews
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Master franchising and area development
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Franchisee onboarding, disputes, and exits
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Franchising Code of Conduct compliance
Construction Lawyers Who Navigate Complexity
Construction projects demand precision, but they can quickly derail without proper legal foundations. Our construction lawyers support contractors, developers, and property owners with advice that's legally robust, commercially astute, and practically focused on project delivery.
Our construction lawyers can assist with:
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Construction contract drafting and negotiation
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Payment disputes and security of payment claims
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Construction delays and variation disputes
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Subcontractor agreements and management
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Regulatory compliance and building law matters
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Dispute resolution & litigation

Senior-Led Commercial Legal Advice.
No Handballing.
At Whelan Lawyers, your matter is managed by experienced commercial, franchising and construction lawyers from the outset. There is no delegation to junior staff and no generic advice, only considered, practical legal guidance tailored to your business objectives.
We act for:
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Founders, directors, and business owners
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Franchisors (new and established)
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Franchisees
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Design and Construction professionals
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Professional services firms
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Service-based enterprises
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Hospitality, food and beverage operators
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Retail brands
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Manufacturers
If your business is expanding or requires clarity on its legal position, our team can provide the strategic advice you need to move forward with confidence.
Contact us to arrange a complimentary initial consultation and discuss how we can assist with your commercial or franchise law needs.