John Bateman

John Bateman OAM is a founding partner of Bateman Battersby Lawyers with over 40 years’ experience in legal practice. He is an Accredited Specialist in Property Law, holding multiple degrees and certifications, including a Bachelor of Laws and Bachelor of Arts (Politics), a Master of Commerce (Land Economics), and is admitted to both the Supreme Court of NSW and the High Court of Australia.

John’s expertise spans a broad range of practice areas, including:

• Residential and Commercial Property Acquisition, Sale and Development
• Commercial and Business Law
• Contract Negotiation
• Compulsory Acquisition and Planning Law
• Wills, Estates and Estate Planning
• Retirement Village and Aged Care Accommodation Agreements
• Commercial Leasing and Local Government Law

He is also a long-standing advisor in legal matters involving complex property developments, compulsory acquisitions, and local government policy.

Professional Affiliations

John is a member of several professional bodies, including:

• Law Society of New South Wales
• Nepean Hawkesbury Law Society (Past President and Secretary)
• Law Council of Australia
• Environment and Planning Law Association
• Associate – Australian Property Institute
• Fellow – Taxation Institute of Australia
• Member – Australian and New Zealand Sporting Lawyers Association

Community Leadership

A tireless advocate for the Western Sydney region, John has contributed to public service and community development for more than four decades. His extensive leadership roles include:

• Mayor of Penrith (1998–2000) and Deputy Mayor (1997–1998)
• Olympic Mayor during Sydney 2000 Olympics, where Penrith hosted rowing and canoe/kayak events
• Executive Member, Nepean Medical Research Foundation (2001–2014)
• Chairman and Deputy Chairman, Penrith Valley Economic Development Corporation
• Board Member, Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre
• Founder, Nepean Philanthropists and Penrith Olympic Torch Relay Committee
• Honorary Solicitor for numerous local organisations including the NSW Little Athletics Association and Penrith Netball Association

He also served on boards for Penrith Panthers, Penrith Rugby Club, and the Western Sydney Academy of Sport, and has mentored high school students in the NSW Law Society Mock Trial Competition.

Honours and Awards

John’s lifelong service to law and the community has been recognised at local, state, and national levels. His awards include:

• Order of Australia (OAM) – 2018
• WSU Community Fellow – 2019
• Honoured Citizen of the City of Penrith – 2022
• Penrith Citizen of the Year – 2008
• Centenary Medal – 2001
• Australian Sports Medal – 2000