Queensland’s largest new barristers' chambers in more than a decade have opened at 400 George Street in Brisbane’s CBD, capitalising on a minute-long commute to the nearby courts precinct.

The formation of George Street Chambers – home to 30 barristers and six readers - was initiated by barrister David de Jersey KC, who has practised at the Brisbane bar since 2005. 

He started out with three other coordinating barristers, all four using their networks to expand their new collective, drawn chiefly from existing CBD chambers.

In looking for a location for the chambers, Mr de Jersey worked with JLL Senior Executive Office Leasing - Queensland Stephanie Macourt, who brokered a single 10-year lease at 400 George St in collaboration with Colliers’ agents Sophie Spyropolous and Kyle Cully, who acted for building owner Cromwell.

George Street Chambers covers 1457 square metres of A-grade office space on Level 29.

Ms Macourt said key drivers in location choice for the chambers, whose members specialise in commercial litigation, included the building’s prime location near the courts, large floorplates and excellent views across Brisbane. 

She said in the same way the CBD faced a lack of office supply, there had been a significant shortage of chambers available for new and emerging barristers.

“If you were a junior barrister looking to find a chamber to work in, there was really nothing available,” Ms Macourt said. 

“David de Jersey recognised a significant gap in the market and decided it was time to establish a new space — one more modern and tailored to today’s barristers.”

Mr de Jersey said: “There was an undersupply of chambers to accommodate members of the commercial bar in Brisbane — particularly junior members. George Street Chambers adds 30 chambers plus six reader rooms to the supply.” 

A seven-figure fit-out by Archway Commercial Interiors added the final contemporary touch.  

Ms Macourt said each barrister was able to customise their individual rooms, resulting in a unique challenge to align 30 different styles and preferences within the overall design. Readers also have their own rooms.

“Another notable addition is a specially designed immersive hearing space, allowing barristers to connect seamlessly to virtual court hearings via video conferencing,” she said. 

“This highlights the forward-thinking approach to meeting the evolving demands of legal practice.”

The transaction, one of the largest brokerage deals in Brisbane’s CBD in 2024, underscores the significant demand for high-quality office space in the city.

"The city has tightening vacancy rates and chambers are following the same trajectory. Net absorption across Brisbane remains strong,” said Ms Macourt.

“With this transaction, George Street Chambers is set to become a cornerstone of Brisbane’s legal fraternity, offering a modern, well-equipped environment that caters to the evolving needs of the city's barristers and their clients.”

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