Meet Max Tonkin
Expert Engineer Consultant + Chief Adjudicator
I’m Max. I’m not a lawyer. I’m an engineer. But when it comes to construction law, I know more than most lawyers. Don’t believe me? Just ask the dozens of lawyers I’ve trained to be adjudicators and claims preparers.
I’ve been involved in the construction industry most of my life.
From site engineer to contract management; from dispute resolution to policy development at NSW department of commerce; from adjudicator to Chief Adjudicator, I’ve been a major player in Security of Payment since it began.
- Expert Engineer Consultant
- Chief Adjudicator under the Building and Construction Industry Security of Payment Act 1999 (NSW)
- I’ve been on both sides of construction disputes - and the in the middle - two many times to count.
- Proud grandfather. I never miss an opportunity to visit my grandkids - that’s as long as it doesn’t interfere with my golf game of course. Let’s just say I work hard and I play hard.
- Big movie fan. Quentin Tarantino, Cohen Brothers, Clint Eastwood. They don’t make ‘em like they used to. Strictly DVDs over here. No streaming for this 90s film connoisseur. Have you seen the rubbish they’re peddling these days?!
“In the construction game, I’ve seen the lot, but nothing beats making sure our clients get paid. It’s more than just contracts – it’s about keeping blokes on the tools and building a better future for everyone. That’s what gets me out of bed every morning.”
– Max
My Experience
I cut my teeth herding the Contracts Branch at NSW Public Works, learning how to keep construction projects running (almost) like a well-oiled machine. Then I stepped up as General Manager at the Department of Commerce, juggling tenders, projects, and keeping the Minister in the loop on all things nuts and bolts. I’ve even had a crack at lecturing at UNSW, teaching the next crop how to dodge disputes like pros. Since 2003, I’ve been an adjudicator with Adjudicate Today, sorting out construction dust-ups across every state and territory in the country – and showing others how to do it without breaking a sweat.
- Civil Engineering Whiz: Chartered Professional Engineer with not one, but two masters degrees (Project Management and Dispute Resolution) to back it up.
- Contract Guru: 45+ years navigating the highs and lows of construction in both government and private sectors. 20+ years in the trenches of contract development, admin, and dispute resolution.
- Security of Payment Specialist: Over 800 adjudications since 2003, tackling claims as hefty as $350 million. Big projects, bigger stakes—handled by yours truly.
- Dispute Resolution Veteran: From site engineer to Chief Adjudicator, I’ve been at the forefront of Security of Payment since day one, helping shape the rules of the game.
How I can help you?
- Top-Drawer Security of Payment Advice: With over 800 adjudications under my belt (yes, eight hunge), I’ve seen it all—big projects, bigger claims, and complex disputes. Let me cut through the noise and help get you paid.
- Contract Admin Masterclass: Contracts are my playground. With 20+ years in contract development and administration, I know how to keep things running smoothly—no surprises, no headaches.
- Seasoned Dispute Resolution Pro: Dodging disputes is an art form I’ve mastered from over 45+ years in construction. Whether you’re tangled in a contract mess or facing a big project blow up, I’ll help you untangle it.
Expert Engineering Insight: As a Chartered Professional Engineer with two master’s degrees, I’ll provide solutions that are not just legal but practical.
Construction Policy Powerhouse: As a key player in Security of Payment policy, I can help you navigate the red tape like a pro, whether you’re dealing with government or private sector projects.
My approach
Straightforward, sharp, and on your side.
- No-Nonsense Solutions: I cut through the legal jargon and get to the point, giving you the answers you need—quick, clear, and actionable.
- Tailored Game Plan: Your case isn’t a “same–solution–for–everyone–deal”, and neither is my approach. I craft a strategy that fits your situation, giving you the best shot at success.
- Keeping You in the Driver’s Seat: I keep you looped in at every turn. No surprises, no guesswork—just full transparency, so you always feel in control.
- Speed + Efficiency: Time is money. I’m focused on getting you results fast, without dragging things out or running up costs.
Education and Memberships
- Bachelor of Engineering (Civil), Sydney University, Sydney NSW
- Master of Dispute Resolution, University of Technology, Sydney NSW
- Master of Project Management, University of Technology, Sydney NSW
- Chief Adjudicator of Adjudicate Today, Australia’s largest Authorised Nominating Authority
- Chartered Engineer at Engineers Australia
Swipe right on legal advice.
You + Us = The perfect legal match. Schedule a call and let’s make it happen!