Lauren Donnellan

SENIOR ASSOCIATE

Lauren has extensive experience across all areas of property law, as well as water law, franchising, and general commercial law. She brings a diverse range of experience across both private practice and in-house roles, driven by her passion for working closely with clients and stakeholders.

Lauren began her legal career in private practice, where she spent six years working at a local firm specialising in commercial and property law. In this role, she advised on a broad range of matters including solar farm developments, general conveyancing, franchising, and other commercial transactions, building strong, practical expertise across complex and large-scale projects as well as everyday client needs. She then transitioned to local government, where she worked in procurement and probity, providing strategic advice on governance and compliance matters.

Following this, Lauren took on an in-house counsel role with one of Australia’s largest quick-service restaurant franchisees. During this time, she played a role in supporting the organisation through a period of restructure and ongoing growth, while strengthening her expertise in franchising, commercial law, and regulatory matters.

Lauren has since returned to private practice, commencing employment with SMR Legal in 2026.

Outside of her legal career, Lauren is deeply involved in community and sporting organisations. She has previously served as a Football Director and Vice President of the Kyabram District League (Football and Netball), contributed to various community boards, and is currently a board member of Shepparton Foodshare.