Callum Ernikiolis

LLB, BGlobSt, MConstrLaw
Legal secretary: Wendy Exon
☎ +61 3 8600 0722
✉ cernikiolis@kcllaw.com.au
Callum is a construction lawyer and member of KCL Law’s Construction and Infrastructure team.

Callum acts in litigious matters concerning both domestic and commercial building disputes.  Callum also provides ‘front-end’ advice to developers, builders and contractors on all types of construction and infrastructure projects.

An astute lawyer, Callum develops business-friendly strategies and solutions that promote the best and most efficient outcomes for his clients. Callum has a great understanding of construction law which he constantly updates through professional development and is a contributor to various publications and his team’s knowledgebase.

Before joining KCL Law, Callum worked at a boutique construction law firm for 5 years.  During this time, Callum represented clients in all Victorian courts, the VCAT and the Building Appeals Board.  He also has experience defending building practitioners in disciplinary proceedings prosecuted by the VBA and in regulatory matters under the Building Act 1993 (including addressing building notices and building orders).

Callum was admitted to practice in 2019, after completing a Bachelor of Laws and Bachelor of Global Studies.  He also has a Master of Construction Law from The University of Melbourne.

Recognition

In 2023, Callum was short-listed as a finalist in the Lawyers Weekly 30 Under 30 Awards 2023 in the category of Construction and Infrastructure. The Lawyers Weekly 30 Under 30 Awards identifies the finest young lawyers across Australia, and provides industry-wide recognition for professional competency while highlighting a passion for the law and dedication for personal advancement.

Areas of practice

Construction and infrastructure (litigious)

  • Commercial and domestic building disputes
  • Security of payment legislation (all states and territories)
  • Proportionate liability regime
  • Disciplinary proceedings against building practitioners
  • Negligence, trespass and other torts
  •  Australian consumer law
  • Owners corporation disputes (involving building defects) and fencing disputes

Construction and infrastructure (front-end)

  • Drafting and reviewing contracts:
    — standard form contracts (AS, ABIC, HIA and MBAV)
    — boutique contracts (including D&C, construct-only, construction management, supply, side deeds and JV agreements)
  •  Drafting contractual notices and claims (usually involving payment, variations, EOTs, bank guarantees or delay).
  • Statutory demands and bankruptcy notices
  • Insurance claims