We’re pleased to introduce one of our expert speakers for the upcoming Smart Strata Community Education Seminar Series — Todd Garsden, who leads the body corporate practice at Mahoneys Lawyers & Advisors. Todd will be joining our panel discussions across the May/June seminar series, where we’ll be exploring major strata maintenance projects and the who, what, when, why and how of managing major works.

Why Legal Insight Matters in Major Strata Maintenance Projects

When it comes to major maintenance and capital works, many strata communities focus on the physical aspects of the project — scope, cost and contractor selection.

However, what is often less understood is the critical role that governance, compliance and decision-making processes play in the success of a project.

From approving works and managing contractor agreements, through to funding decisions and navigating competing interests within a scheme, major projects can quickly become complex if the right processes are not followed.

This is where legal expertise becomes particularly valuable.

Todd will bring a practical legal perspective to the panel, helping attendees understand:

• How decisions should be made and documented
• Where risks commonly arise in major projects
• How to approach contracts and agreements with confidence
• Why clear governance processes are essential to achieving successful outcomes

A Practical, Real-World Perspective

One of the strengths of this seminar series is its focus on real-world scenarios.

Rather than focusing purely on theory, our panel will work through common examples—such as building repainting projects—to demonstrate how major strata maintenance projects unfold in practice.

Todd’s experience working closely with bodies corporate, managers and owners across a wide range of schemes allows him to provide insights that are not only legally sound, but also practical and relevant to everyday strata challenges.

About Todd Garsden

Todd Garsden is an experienced body corporate lawyer and leads Mahoneys’ body corporate practice.

Since being admitted in 2013, Todd has built a strong reputation advising bodies corporate, managers and lot owners on a wide range of matters, from day-to-day governance and compliance through to complex transactions and agreements.

He works across a diverse range of schemes, including residential, commercial, resort and mixed-use developments, providing guidance on decision-making, regulatory requirements and contractual arrangements.

Todd is an active member of the Strata Community Association (QLD) and was appointed to the SCA Legislation Committee in 2019, contributing to industry submissions on legislative reform. He also regularly shares his expertise through articles, training and industry engagement.

Todd is supported by a specialist team at Mahoneys, which was recognised as “Law Firm of the Year” at the 2023 SCA Awards.

Join Todd Garsden at the Seminar Series

Todd Garsden will be joining our expert panel in Brisbane, alongside other industry professionals, to provide practical guidance on how strata communities can approach major strata maintenance projects with confidence.

If your scheme is planning major works—or knows they are on the horizon—this seminar series is a valuable opportunity to better understand the processes, risks and decisions involved.

Register For Your Local Event Below

Airlie Beach

Thursday 7 May 2026
Coral Sea Resort
Click here to register

Sunshine Coast

Thursday 14 May 2026
Maroochy RSL
Click here to register

Brisbane

Wednesday 20 May 2026
The Broncos
Click here to register

Cairns

Thursday 28 May 2026
Pullman Reef Casino
Click here to register

Gold Coast

Wednesday 3 June 2026
People’s First Stadium
Click here to register

Maintenance & Major Projects: the who, what, when, why and how

Smart Strata Community Education Seminar Series

Delivered in partnership with Archers the Strata Professionals, this seminar series is designed to educate, engage and connect strata communities across Queensland.

Through expert panel discussions, real-world case studies and practical insights, attendees will gain a clearer understanding of how to plan, fund and deliver major works in strata schemes.

Canapés and beverages will be served, with great prizes to be won on the evening.

We look forward to welcoming you to the seminar series this May and June.

Article Contributed by the Smart Strata Team

The post FIRST SEMINAR SPEAKER ANNOUNCED: TODD GARSDEN ON MAJOR MAINTENANCE PROJECTS appeared first on Smart Strata | Body Corporate Management.