Presenters

James Harding, Legal Practice Director, Harding Property Law
Starting his own practice Harding Property Law in 2022, James stands out in the Queensland property and development sector with his unique blend of entrepreneurial experience and legal expertise. His firm, established to provide strategic advice on a wide array of complex property-related issues, quickly became known for its practical solutions catering to both corporate and private clients. James's journey in the legal field is underpinned by his background as a small business owner and employer, bringing a rare combination of commercial insights and legal acumen to his practice. This blend proves invaluable in navigating the intricate landscape of property law and commercial transactions. Earlier in his career, while with a national firm, James represented a diverse range of clients including State Government bodies, national statutory organizations, and charitable institutions, skilfully managing their property transactional needs in Queensland. His responsibilities encompassed the acquisition and sale of businesses, corporate restructuring, and providing intricate titling and structuring advice. James's expertise also extends to handling COVID-19 related leasing issues, where he advised national shopping centre operators. His proficiency in Foreign Investment Review Board Approval, compliance, enforcement responses, and advisory on Duties and Australian Foreign Acquirer Duty, further solidifies his reputation as a leader in property law. With his team at Harding Property Law, James continues to deliver tailored and strategic legal solutions, demonstrating a deep understanding of both the legal intricacies and the commercial realities of property transactions.


Lauren Franey, National Account Manager, PEXA
Lauren Franey is a National Account Manager at PEXA, supporting lawyers, conveyancers and working with industry stakeholders across Queensland, New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory to streamline processes related to electronic settlements and driving efficiencies to support the property ecosystem. Prior to working at PEXA, Lauren worked as a Conveyancing Manager, leading and supporting a team of paralegals and administration staff with high volumes of residential, commercial and off the plan property transactions, whilst growing and maintaining a broad network of referrers and long-term clients that she is still connected to today. Given her tenure in practicing conveyancing prior to PEXA, Lauren is passionate in her support of PEXA’s practitioner customers and in connecting with key stakeholders to advocate for practitioners and their clients.