Nicole Courtman

Special Counsel

Warrane | Sydney

With over 20 years of experience as an administrative and property lawyer specialising in native title, land rights and corporate governance, Nicole Courtman joins Marrawah Law as Special Counsel.

Nicole holds a Bachelor of Law (Hons.) from the University of Sydney and Bachelor of Commerce (Property Economics) (Distinction) from UWS. She has completed a range of post graduate studies in property, administrative law and corporate governance.

Nicole has provided legal, governance and strategic advice to the Boards and CEOs of a range of organisations across Australia, including native title bodies; land councils; health and housing organisations.

Most recently Nicole served as a Registrar of the NSW Aboriginal Land Rights Act 1983 for six years. In this role she provided independent advice to the Minister of Aboriginal Affairs and worked closely with the Aboriginal Land Council network across NSW.

Nicole has previously worked as a Senior Lawyer in private practice and in house at a number of peak bodies, including as the Director of Corporate Governance and Chief Audit Executive for the largest Aboriginal representative body in Australia.

Nicole has extensive litigation experience having been an instructing solicitor in a range of litigation in the Land & Environment Court, Supreme Court, Federal Court, Court of Appeal and High Court.

Prior to becoming a lawyer, Nicole worked in the property industry as a property valuer, in sales and as a property manager. She has experience negotiating and drafting complex commercial contracts involving the acquisition of property and establishment of appropriate corporate entities.

Nicole is passionate about supporting outcomes that improve the lives of Indigenous Australians, informed decision making and self-determination in action.