Property and leasing dispute lawyers in Melbourne
We protect your interests with expert legal solutions.
Safeguarding your property rights with expert legal guidance
MST’s property dispute lawyers act for owners, co-owners, neighbours, landlords, and tenants across Melbourne and Victoria — in boundary and easement disputes, adverse possession claims, co-ownership and land-ownership disputes, commercial and retail lease disputes, and disputes arising after a property sale. We regularly appear at the Victorian Small Business Commission and VCAT.
Property is often one of the most valuable assets a person or business can own, and disputes involving property can be particularly complex and emotionally charged. Whether you are dealing with a disagreement over property ownership, boundary issues, or a contractual dispute related to real estate, these conflicts can have significant financial and personal implications. At MST Lawyers, our Property and Leasing Disputes team is committed to providing you with the legal expertise and strategic advice necessary to resolve these issues efficiently and effectively, ensuring that your property rights are upheld.
Key takeaways
- We handle boundary, easement and adverse possession disputes, co-ownership disputes, lease disputes, and post-settlement contract disputes.
- Most property disputes resolve through negotiation or mediation; we litigate at VCAT, the Small Business Commission, or court where needed.
- Commercial and retail lease disputes are commonly heard at VCAT or the Victorian Small Business Commission.
Types of property disputes we handle
Our team has extensive experience in handling a wide range of property and leasing disputes. We understand the unique challenges that come with property-related conflicts and work diligently to protect your interests and achieve the best possible outcome.
What are your options in a co-ownership or land-ownership dispute?
Disputes over property ownership can arise from a variety of circumstances, including co-ownership disagreements, inheritance issues, and fraudulent claims. We assist clients in asserting their ownership rights, resolving conflicts and where necessary bringing (or defending) proceedings regarding these issues.
It might even be something more broad like a trespass to land claim, easement dispute or a dispute regarding who purchased a property. We can assist as needed.
How do you resolve a boundary or fencing dispute?
Boundary issues can lead to long-standing conflicts between neighbours, affecting both residential and commercial properties. Our team provides considered advice on resolving boundary disputes, including encroachments, easements and adverse possession claims.
Lease disputes
Leases are a critical aspect of many property relationships, and disputes over lease terms, rent adjustments and property use can be particularly contentious. We represent both landlords and tenants in resolving lease disputes, whether through negotiation, mediation, or litigation, to protect your interests and uphold the terms of the agreement. We have run many matters at the Small Business Commission and VCAT regarding such disputes.
Real estate contractual disputes
Contracts involving the sale, purchase, or development of real estate can be complex and, when disputes arise, they require careful legal analysis. We assist clients with disputes related to real estate contracts, including breaches of sale agreements, misrepresentations and issues with property transactions and outcomes.
How are commercial and retail lease disputes resolved?
Disagreements between commercial landlords and tenants can disrupt business operations and lead to significant financial losses. We assist clients in resolving commercial leasing disputes, including issues related to rent reviews, lease renewals, evictions and termination rights to try and ensure that the lease terms are fairly enforced.
the lawyers dedicated to your success
Meet Our Litigation & Dispute Resolution Team
Our dedicated team of litigation and dispute resolution lawyers brings decades of experience in handling complex property disputes. We are committed to protecting your interests and providing practical, results-driven legal solutions.
Why Choose MST Lawyers?
what we're known for
MST Lawyers provides tailored strategies to resolve contract and commercial disputes efficiently, minimising disruption and legal costs. Our team offers negotiation, mediation, and litigation services, ensuring the best possible outcome while helping you strengthen contracts and prevent future conflicts.
OUR Clients
Serving both individuals and businesses
Our clients span industries, backgrounds, and needs, each relying on MST Lawyers for dedicated, effective legal support.
Schedule a consultation with our litigation & dispute resolution lawyers
If you’re facing a property or leasing dispute and need expert guidance, our Litigation and Dispute Resolution team is here to help. Contact Mark Skermer on (03) 8540 0200 or request a consultation using our contact form.
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What our clients say
FAQS
Have a question? Just ask
Litigation involves taking a dispute to court, while dispute resolution includes negotiation, mediation, and arbitration—which can often resolve matters faster and with lower costs.
ADR is ideal when both parties are open to settling disputes outside of court in a quicker, more cost-effective manner.
It depends on the complexity of the case. Some disputes can be resolved in months, while others may take longer if they go to court.
Boundary disputes are usually resolved by reviewing the certificate of title and a licensed surveyor’s report, then negotiating between neighbours. If that fails, applications can be made to VCAT or the courts, including for adverse possession where the criteria are met. MST advises on the fastest realistic path for your situation.
Yes, many disputes are successfully resolved through mediation, arbitration, or direct negotiations—avoiding the costs and delays of litigation.
We provide expert legal representation, strategic negotiation, and tailored dispute resolution strategies to achieve the best possible outcome for your case.
Retail lease disputes are usually referred first to the Victorian Small Business Commission for mediation, with VCAT as the next step. Other commercial lease disputes may go to VCAT or court depending on the lease and the amount in dispute.
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We deliver strategic dispute resolution and litigation services, resolving commercial, workplace, and construction conflicts efficiently while protecting your interests:
Content reviewed by Mark Skermer, Principal
Last reviewed: July 2026