Firms To Watch: IT and telecoms

Co-led by Robyn Chatwood and Matthew Hennessy from Melbourne, Dentons offers a wide practice encompassing all aspects of TMT, including data privacy, cybersecurity, IP and software licencing agreements.

IT and telecoms in Australia

Allens

Allens enjoys a first-rate reputation in the IT and telecoms market, attracting large domestic clients as well as global tech companies, which turn to the team for advice on technology procurement and digital transformation projects. Practice head Gavin Smith is known for his work on corporate transactions within the tech space, while Phil O’Sullivan deals with tech in healthcare and Jessica Mottau works on tech licensing agreements. Furthermore, with the addition of Valeska Bloch as head of cyber, the team has further strengthened its offering in managing cyber incidents, data breaches and data security.

Practice head(s):

Gavin Smith


Other key lawyers:

Valeska Bloch; Phil O’Sullivan; Jessica Mottau; Will Coote


Testimonials

‘Allens have deep expertise across all areas. They provide excellent service, are responsive, and I’ve never had them miss a deadline. They are strategic and are creative in being able to think of alternative solutions to often very complex problems. They also have the confidence of my exec and Board. My go-to firm for important strategic deals.’

‘Phil O’Sullivan – excellent client service. Is able to leverage his broad industry experience to support our team with excellent advice around transformational projects and commercial strategy on large deals.’

‘Will Coote – excellent managing associate, supporting Phil in the TMT space.’

Key clients

TPG Telecom


CBA


Westpac


Coles


Ontario Teachers’ Pension Plan Board


Woolworths Holdings Limited


Quantium


Tab NZ


Northleaf Capital Partners


Aware Super


Sympli


Flux Federation


QuantumLAB


Melbourne Water


Work highlights


  • Advised TPG on the A$950m sale of 100% of its passive mobile tower and rooftop infrastructure assets to OMERS Infrastructure Management.
  • Advised on an AI and data joint venture between Quantium and Telstra, which will provide end-to-end data analytics and AI services.
  • Advised TAB NZ on a 25-year strategic partnering arrangement with an international wagering operator which will enhance TAB NZ’s betting, broadcasting and gaming operations in New Zealand.

Ashurst

The deep bench at Ashurst leverages its expertise across the east coast of Australia to assist its clients, which range from tech and telecoms companies to banks and government bodies, with digital infrastructure, digital transformation and digital services. Amanda Ludlow and Andrew Craig lead the practice, the former working on the regulatory facets of digital infrastructure projects and the latter specialising in tech transactions. Clare Doneley advises clients within the public and private sectors on outsourcing, enterprise resource planning and cloud services, while Tim Brookes specialises in data use and regulation.

Practice head(s):

Amanda Ludlow; Andrew Craig


Other key lawyers:

Clare Doneley; Tim Brookes; Mitchell Bazzana; Emma Butler


Testimonials

‘The team was able to expertly manage every aspect of a highly complex, multifaceted, multinational arrangement. They managed the project from start to finish.’

‘Tim Brookes and Mitchell Bazzana have incredible subject matter expertise, immaculate attention to detail. Their ability to turn around extensive amounts of precision drafting and provide commercial solutions to road blocks is second to none.’

‘Leadership capabilities in terms of strategic service offering.’

Key clients

7-Eleven Stores Pty Ltd


Aer Riata International


AGL Energy Limited


AIA Company Limited


Allegis Talent Consultancy (Shanghai) Co. Ltd.


Australia and New Zealand Banking Group Limited


Aveo Group


Commonwealth Bank of Australia


Commonwealth Government – Department of Defence


Commonwealth Government – Department of Employment and Workplace Relations


Commonwealth Government – Department of Finance


DataBank Australia Pty Ltd


KVD Singapore Pte Ltd


Meta Platforms, Inc (formerly Facebook)


Monash University


NBN Co Limited


NSW Government


Quantium Group Holdings


Queensland Government


SAP Fioneer Australia Pty Ltd


Standards Australia Limited


State of Victoria


Westpac Banking Corporation


Woolworths Group Limited


X15Ventures


Work highlights


  • Assisting with AGL’s digital transformation programme of work known as “Retail Next”.
  • Advised ANZ on its cornerstone investment and takeover of rival Suncorp Bank.
  • Advising Meta on 2Africa, including the 2Africa Pearls extension, which will see the subsea cable project increase connectivity for approximately three billion people.

Clayton Utz

Led by Bruce Lloyd from the Sydney office, Clayton Utz attracts a wide range of high-profile domestic clients, which turn to the team for its expertise across the government, agriculture, telecoms and financial services sectors. The team is home to well-respected TMT specialist Ken Saurajen, who has a reputation for working with banks, universities and governments on high-end and complex technology transactions, in addition to Walid Sukari, whose practice covers a broad range of fields, from finance to aviation. Technology transactions expert Simon Newcomb is another name to note.

Practice head(s):

Bruce Lloyd


Other key lawyers:

Ken Saurajen; Walid SukariSimon Newcomb; Angie Freeman; Robert Dearn; Andrew Leece


Testimonials

‘I’ve been impressed with the Clayton Utz team – great on strategic matters.’

‘We find the team at Clayton Utz consistently provides high quality, legally sound advice that offers us practical solutions to all matters on which we engage them. They are happy to work collaboratively with us to achieve outcomes, and always meet the agreed timeframes.’

‘We work primarily with partners Angie Freeman, Robert Dearn and Andrew Leece. They all very responsive to our requests, and happy to work collaboratively with us to progress matters in a manner which meets our business needs.’

Key clients

Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF)


Comcare


NSW Department of Customer Service


National Broadband Network (nbn)


St John of God Health Care


Reserve Bank of Australia


Brisbane City Council


Department of Defence


Westpac Banking Corporation


Gateway Network Governing Body


Work highlights


  • Acted as both legal and probity adviser on DAFF’s (Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry) major ICT Sourcing Program of Work.
  • Advising Comcare (as both legal and probity adviser) on its two-stage open tender process for the provision of a new claims management system.
  • Assisted the NSW Department of Customer Service to prepare and establish the key contractual documents for the NSW Government’s new ICT Professional Services Purchasing Arrangement (PSPA).

Corrs Chambers Westgarth

Working with leading multinational tech companies, Corrs Chambers Westgarth is a go-to advisor for those seeking advice on digital transformation, tech transactions, data protection and data security issues. With over 25 years of experience working in the TMT space, James North leads the practice from the Sydney office, where he often collaborates with James Wallace, who works on tech investments, fintech products and tech platforms. Philip Catania from the Melbourne office has a background in law and computer science, making him a first point of contact for advice on artificial intelligence.

Practice head(s):

James North


Other key lawyers:

Philip Catania; James Wallace


Testimonials

‘Highly experienced team, used team resources effectively to deliver a cost-efficient service. Great focus on our commercial outcomes and designing the best way to achieve this. Excellent collaboration with our commercial team and stakeholders from client side.’

‘James North is excellent – focus on commerciality and cost-effectiveness on a large deal. Had a strong team to support him, delivering a comprehensive service offering.’

Key clients

TPG Telecom


Google/Alphabet


Adobe


Square/Afterpay/Block


Commonwealth Bank of Australia (CBA) / X15 Ventures


Australian National Broadband Network (nbn)


FNZ


Westpac


Omers Infrastructure


State Governments (Queensland, Victoria and New South Wales)


National Australia Bank (NAB)


Westpac


PayPal


ANZ


Woodside


Capital One


QIC


Flybuys


Wesfarmers


Coles


Allianz Australia


Work highlights


  • Advised TPG Telecom on entering into long-term contracts with Telstra for a regional network agreement.
  • Representing Meta (Facebook) in its defence of a class action claim brought on behalf of members of the cryptocurrency industry alleging that Meta and Google engaged in cartel conduct.
  • Advising all four of Australia’s major banks on IT and data matters.

Gilbert + Tobin

Gilbert + Tobin fields a team of ‘skilled and highly intelligent negotiators’, who advise on cybersecurity risks and infrastructure projects as well as joint ventures, restructurings and alliances within the TMT space. An authority in this area, Sheila McGregor practices from the Sydney office, focusing on cloud and data security issues within the IT and tech law space, while Tim Goyle works on data security issues within the technology, broadcasting and telecommunications arenas. Simon Burns deals with the regulatory and contracting side of tech and data transactions.

Practice head(s):

Sheila McGregor


Other key lawyers:

Tim Gole; Simon Burns; Claire Harris; Jen Bradley; Melissa Fai; Luke Standen


Testimonials

‘G&T’s IT and Telecoms practice has the perfect mix of legal and substantive depth, together with the agility to advise at breadth – picking up strategic work that would typically be outside the scope of an external advisory role.’

‘Sheila McGregor – real gravitas and unrivalled depth of experience, combined with that legal knowledge and strong commercial overlay. A real asset to have on your side in difficult negotiations.’

‘Tim Gole – a fantastic combination of knowing the law well, being incredibly intelligent and also the strong commercial focus he brings to his advice. He doesn’t sweat the small stuff and gives you real confidence that the important issues are being appropriately addressed.’

Key clients

Microsoft


Telstra


Transport for NSW


Australian Payments Plus (AP+)


QBE


Great Southern Bank


Lendlease


Maxis Communications


BHP


Commonwealth Government


Work highlights


  • Advising Credit Union of Australia (trading as Great Southern Bank) on its investment in and collaboration with Sydney-based fintech start-up Constantinople.
  • Advising AP+ in relation to the establishment of a new national digital identity exchange and network – ConnectID.
  • Advising Australian Rail Track Corporation (ARTC) in relation to all aspects of the contracting related to its ATMS traffic management system for the Australian standard gauge freight network.

Herbert Smith Freehills

Market leader Herbert Smith Freehills handles a range of corporate and technology-based transactions, covering digital transformations, data privacy, investigations, data forensics and dispute management for tech companies. Julian Lincoln heads the practice, working particularly with IP data protection issues for clients within the tech sector, as well as the government sector. The practice is also home to Peter Jones, who has over 25 years of experience handling TMT transactions across Australia and the Asia Pacific region, as well as Kwok Tang, who deals with global tech clients and advises on emerging technologies such as AI and drones. Tony Joyner has recently stepped down as global head of the tech team and now leads the firm’s WA TMT practice.

Practice head(s):

Julian Lincoln


Other key lawyers:

Peter Jones; Tony Joyner; Kwok Tang


Key clients

Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and Export Finance Australia


Google


Tik Tok / ByteDance


Uber


CBA


Digital Nasional Berhad


Etisalat


Emerging Tech


BHP


NAB


Simply Energy


Wesfarmers


State Solicitor’s Office of Western Australia


Proteomics International Pty Ltd


Work highlights


  • Advised on the Australian Government’s support for Telstra’s A$2.4bn acquisition of Digicel Pacific.

King & Wood Mallesons

With expertise spanning data security, data regulation, cloud services and AI, the group at King & Wood Mallesons is a popular choice among ASX-listed companies, media groups, telcos, global tech giants and start-ups. Practice head Cheng Lim, who specialises in commercial and regulatory tech law; Michael Swinson, who has extensive knowledge of AI, cybersecurity and data governance; and Jessica Kruger, who is well versed at managing large-scale digital infrastructure projects, are among the names to note. Rachael Lewis is another key practitioner; she advises on a wide breadth of telecoms regulatory law and is highlighted for her ability to 'propose solutions and a way forward and drive great outcomes'.

Practice head(s):

Cheng Lim


Other key lawyers:

Rachael Lewis; Michael Swinson; Stephen Brightman; Jessica Kruger


Testimonials

‘Exceptional technical skills and understanding of the client’s goals.’

‘They have a very strong ability to handle complex and sophisticated matters, cut through the complexity and deliver effective outcomes. They also do a great job of training and supervising their junior staff, meaning you always get a consistent quality of product, even if new people need to be brought in for capacity reasons or to meet deadlines.’

‘Rachael Lewis in particular is fantastic at coming into a situation complex matter under time pressure and very quickly and calmly making sense of it, thinking through a range of scenarios, issues and stakeholder factors, proposing solutions and a way forward and driving great outcomes.’

Key clients

Telstra


Meta Platforms Inc


Microsoft


BHP


ICare


Medibank


Seek


REA


ANZ


AGL


Latitude


Inligo Networks


Work highlights


  • Assisted Telstra on its strategic corporate restructure, which involved a ‘top-hatting’ and the listing of Telstra Group (the new head entity) on the ASX.
  • Assisting Inligo Networks, a subsea cable owner and operator based in Singapore, on its deployment of the Asia Connect Cable (ACC-1) subsea cable system.
  • Assisting Telstra in the negotiating and drafting of a five-year strategic partnership agreement with Microsoft.

Norton Rose Fulbright

Norton Rose Fulbright attracts high-profile international and domestic TMT companies thanks to its expertise in data privacy, cryptocurrency and AI. The team is jointly led by Anna Gamvros, who handles tech agreements and regulatory matters, Nick Abrahams, who advises on digital transformation and tech procurement, Martyn Taylor, who deals with high-profile telecoms transactions, and Peter Mulligan, who specialises in information and communications technology and works for universities, banks and governmental bodies.

Practice head(s):

Ann Gamvros; Nick Abrahams; Martyn Taylor; Peter Mulligan


Other key lawyers:

Kai-Chi Cheung


Key clients

Vodafone Group


AT&T


Honda


Megaport


NEP


AirTrunk


Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning


Kacific


TPG Telecom Group


Workday Australia


Datacom


Commonwealth Bank of Australia


World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF)


Australian Competition and Consumer Commission


Safaricom


Work highlights


  • Advising Megaport on all aspects of its continued global expansion into Mexico, Israel, India and Brazil.
  • Acting for Venues NSW (and formerly, the Sydney Cricket & Sports Ground Trust) on all of its major commercial, outsourcing and technology transactions.
  • Advising Honda Australia on the implementation of next generation cars in Australia with a particular focus on connected car services and telecommunications law and regulation.

Baker McKenzie

The team at Baker McKenzie offers a full service to its TMT clients, and is particularly active in the technology, telecoms, healthcare and luxury goods sectors. The practice is headed by copyright, defamation and media regulation expert Andrew Stewart in the Sydney office. The practice is also home to Anne-Marie Allgrove, who specialises in global cybersecurity, privacy and information governance, in addition to Anne Petterd, who is well versed in navigating data breaches, data security matters and defence projects.

Practice head(s):

Andrew Stewart


Other key lawyers:

Anne-Marie Allgrove; Anne Petterd


Testimonials

‘This team is very experienced and knowledgeable in IT and telecoms matters.’

‘Baker McKenzie have in-depth knowledge and experience in handling a wide range of matters in this practice area. They also have the advantage of being able to draw on the expertise and resources of their global network of other Baker McKenzie offices, as well as their trusted advisers in the jurisdictions in which they do not have their own offices.’

Key clients

Zoe Lee McClure


OMERS Infrastructure


Axicom Pty Ltd


Macquarie Infrastructure


Amplitel Pty Ltd


Waveconn Pty Ltd


Airbnb


Work highlights


  • Acting for the lead applicant in the class action, commenced in February 2023 and funded by Omni Bridgeway, seeking substantial damages against Medibank following its data breach in October 2022.
  • Acted for OMERS in its acquisition of 100% of TPG Telecom’s towers and rooftop portfolio, consisting of over 1,230 sites, for an enterprise value of A$950m.
  • Acting in Federal Court enforcement proceedings against Airbnb Ireland and Airbnb, Inc alleging breaches of the Australian Consumer Law (ACL).

Bird & Bird

Bird & Bird is a key player in the TMT space and is sought out for its advice, which not only covers data protection and privacy, but also extends to the law covering space, satellites and autonomous vehicles. The team is co-headed by Hamish Fraser, who is active in commercial and regulatory matters in tech, and Thomas Jones, who is well equipped to handle licensing, procurement, distribution and IP issues. Shane Barber is another key partner, specialising in media and communications. All named practitioners are based in Sydney.

Practice head(s):

Hamish Fraser; Thomas Jones


Other key lawyers:

Shane Barber; Sophie Dawson; Julie Cheeseman


Key clients

TPG Telecom


BAI Communications Pty Ltd


Take-Two Interactive Software Inc


Rockstar Games, Inc


Aircall SAS


Pivotel Group


Cordell Jigsaw Productions


Guesty, Inc.


Speedcast Holdings LLC


Work highlights


  • Acting for Vodafone Hutchison Australia and the joint venture between Vodafone and Optus Mobile, both of which undertake the significant rollout of 4G and 5G networks across Australia.
  • Advising a client on the structuring of arrangements with other tenderers in connection with the provision of neutral host networks for the NSW Regional Connectivity Programme.
  • Assisting with the achievement of copyright infringement for Take-Two Interactive Software and RockStar Games in proceedings concerning unauthorised mods written for the Grand Theft Auto V game.

Maddocks

Maddocks draws the attention of national and international blue-chip companies seeking council on tech transactions, software licencing, cybersecurity, data privacy and tech procurement projects. Caroline Atkins, who has experience working on the negotiation of agreements with governmental bodies, leads the group alongside Brendan Tomlinson, who specialises in outsourcing projects and software licencing data analytics, and Robert Gregory, whose experience spans numerous sectors, and who often advises corporate clients on IP law.

Practice head(s):

Brendan Tomlinson; Caroline Atkins; Robert Gregory


Other key lawyers:

Katherine Armytage


Testimonials

‘The team always meets timeframes and delivers an excellent quality product. They also understand systems and current technology and are able to either use or provide legal advice on how it operates.’

‘Katherine is excellent with her clients as well as her staff. She actively listens, incorporates and addresses the concerns raised by her clients, inclusive of her staff during meetings, always have a can do attitude, which then translate to the culture of the team.’

‘Katherine has excellent knowledge in the area of Information Law, always identifying other possible issues and bringing it to the attention of the client, and is able to navigate complex issues with practical legal solutions.’

Key clients

Optus


Adobe Systems


Essential Energy


Sony Australia


Aristocrat Technologies


Macquarie Telecom


Commonwealth Bank of Australia


Sydney Airport


Deutsche Bank


Digital Transformation Agency (Australian Government)


Federation University


Commonwealth Government departments and agencies


NSW Government departments and agencies


VIC Government departments and agencies


Work highlights


  • Advised the Digital Transformation Agency (DTA) on the renegotiation of its whole-of-government agreement (WOGA) with IBM.
  • Advised Adobe on a number of significant matters, including complex master services agreements, software licensing agreements and agreements with various customers.
  • Advised Adventist Healthcare on a subscription agreement with RapidAI, a healthtech company specialising in stroke imaging.

Minter Ellison

With offices across Brisbane, Melbourne, Perth, Adelaide, Canberra and Sydney, Minter Ellison offers national expertise to its client base, which includes governmental bodies, financial institutions and companies operating in the energy, aviation, telecoms, media and education sectors. Leadership is shared between Nicholas Pascoe, who advises clients on ICT matters across the public and private sectors; Paul Kallenbach, head of cyber law and data privacy; and Amanda Story, whose work is backed by 18 years of experience advising on tech procurement within the government sector. Kylie Diwell is another key practitioner in the team.

Practice head(s):

Nicholas Pascoe, Paul Kallenbach; Amanda Story


Other key lawyers:

Kylie Diwell


Testimonials

‘The team at Minters understand our business requirements very well and also understand the technical and operational aspects of telecommunications. Continuity of service provides a real advantage.’

‘Kylie Diwell provides excellent legal and business advice and always responds very promptly.’

Key clients

The State of Victoria (acting through the Department of Treasury & Finance)


Colonial First State


NCS Group


Suncorp Group


Woolworths


Department of Education, Skills and Employment


MedicalDirector (part of Telstra Health)


Optus Internet


SingTel Optus


Qantas


Work highlights


  • Advised Colonial First State (CFS) on its arrangements with wealth platform provider FNZ for the development and operation of a new technology platform.
  • Advised the Department of Education, Skills and Employment on its sourcing of a national cloud-based, scalable, stable and reusable enterprise information system.
  • Advised the Victorian Government on its Emergency Management Operational Communications (EMOC) Programme for nearly 20 years.

K&L Gates

K&L Gates is highlighted for its provision of ‘pragmatic and commercial solutions to problems, with a very high level of technical and industry understanding’ in the TMT space. The group has a wide expertise, ranging from transactional, where it advises governmental bodies on matters such as outsourcing, to the strategic, where it carries out risk management and data security work. Cameron Abbott leads the group, handling tech procurement projects and e-commerce transactions. Richard Chew advises clients on emerging tech, Rob Pulham handles privacy and cybersecurity, and Allison Wallace focuses on IP.

Practice head(s):

Cameron Abbott


Other key lawyers:

Richard Chew; Rob Pulham; Allison Wallace


Testimonials

‘We have had exceptional service from K&L Gates for our technology-related legal needs, including competition and general commercial.’

Richard Chew has provided outstanding support in relation to technology contracts and regulatory requirements with respect to data privacy, security and emerging areas of technology regulation.’

‘K&L Gates provides pragmatic and commercial solutions to problems, with a very high level of technical and industry understanding.’

‘What differentiates KLG is their commitment to owning the outcome. Instead of providing advice and guidance, the team at KLG have taken ownership and shared responsibility.’

‘KLG are proactive and drive a sense of urgency when needed.’

‘Richard has an unusually high level of IT understanding for a legal professional, allowing him to hit the ground running in discussions with our technical teams and establish credibility immediately with a range of teams in the organisation.’

‘Cameron has remained fully committed to our projects. He brings with him a level of authority and experience unique to this type of complex digital transformation project. He is always contactable but delegates when appropriate.’

‘Rob Pulham provides speciality advice on software, contract terms and arrangements.’

Key clients

Alcidion


BlueScope Steel Limited


CLP Holdings Limited


Dicker Data Limited


Fortytwo24 Pty Ltd


Hydro Tasmania


Inghams Enterprises Pty Ltd


Origin Energy


TasNetworks Pty Ltd


Work highlights


  • Advised a state government department on its procurement of a system implementor and software solution for its human resources information system replacement project.
  • Acted for BlueScope in its procurement of a system implementor and software vendor for the replacement of its ERP platform.
  • Advised a state government department on its procurement of a system implementor and software solution for a digital outpatient management solution.

Lander & Rogers

Lander & Rogers provides regulatory and commercial advice to a variety of clients, ranging from start-ups to multinationals. The team is best known for its work with cryptocurrency and cybersecurity. Leadership of the practice is split between Robert Neely, who is sought out by clients needing tech procurement advice within the public and private sectors, and Lisa Fitzgerald, who has over 20 years of experience working in the TMT space. Senior associate Keely O’Dowd is a key point of contact for clients seeking advice on privacy issues and cybersecurity.

Practice head(s):

Robert Neely; Lisa Fitzgerald


Other key lawyers:

Keely O’Dowd


Key clients

DCI Data Centers


DoorDash


Healthscope Operations Pty Ltd


Netball Australia


5D Global


Tangible Technology Pty Ltd


Logmaster Pty Ltd


Tesserent Cyber Services Pty Ltd


CH Digital Pty Ltd


Acsess Health Pty Ltd


Saudi Arabian Ministry of Communication and Information Technology


Work highlights


  • Advised a client on the regulation of personal information, intergovernmental agreements and legislative public sector data sharing schemes.
  • Assisted 5D Global with the preparation of relevant sub-contracts and related documentation for the first phase of its project rolling out a high-speed fibre-optic network from Melbourne to Brisbane.
  • Advised CH Digital on the various transactions and matters relating to its digital business and assets, including thousands of copyright works forming the content on the client’s app.

Webb Henderson

Webb Henderson has a broad TMT service, offering clients advice across corporate, commercial and regulatory matters. The firm is led from Sydney by Angus Henderson, a digital infrastructure and fibre optics specialist; Ara Margossian, who handles large-scale telecoms infrastructure projects; and Ish Omar, who has vast experience in telecoms projects, as well as media and technology.

Practice head(s):

Angus Henderson; Ara Margossian; Ish Omar


Testimonials

‘Webb Henderson has a unique combination of knowledge, experience, telecoms market and regulatory awareness and working style, making them by far the best counsel for our business in Australia.’

‘They have excellent contacts and experience of working with the key regulatory authorities, have a great working approach to pursuing corporate transactions and engage with the client teams in a professional and efficient manner.’

‘Their fee structure is appropriate for the value and protection they deliver, and always provide sound advice and recommendations. The best external counsel our company works with internationally.’

Key clients

nbn


Google


SpaceX


Starlink


Spark


Lumen


Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission


HyperOne


Australian Competition and Consumer Commission


Work highlights


  • Acting for nbn in relation to the proposed variation of its Special Access Undertaking, which regulates the price and quality of nbn’s services until 2040.
  • Advised Spark on the sale of 70% its mobile tower business to the Ontario Teachers’ Pension Plan Board for NZ$900m.
  • Advised HyperOne on its proposed A$1.5bn investment in relation to Australia’s first hyperscale national fibre network, involving 20,000km of fibre connections.

DLA Piper

The group at DLA Piper acts for technology, IT, e-commerce and fintech businesses around the globe, advising on the full scope of technology matters, including digital transformation projects, software development and licencing, data privacy and cybersecurity. Its workload includes telecoms services agreements and outsourcing matters. The practice is led by skilled practitioner Tim Lyons, who advises on tech supply and outsourcing transactions, as well as upgrade and implementation projects, while Sarah Dolan provides clients with advice on the structuring and management of projects across the energy, financial services, mining and government sectors.

Practice head(s):

Tim Lyons


Other key lawyers:

Sarah Dolan


Testimonials

‘Sarah Dolan: Strong understanding of government procurement processes and administrative requirements. Capacity to offer sound commercial advice beyond contractual and legal matters. Prompt response times and sound contractual drafting.’

‘Resources. IT knowledge and commercial acumen is strong.’

‘Commercial acumen, relationship and engagement style and commitment to work. No task too large and timeframes always met.’

‘The DLA Piper team have again proven themselves to be highly knowledgeable and capable of working with our business to deliver pragmatic solutions on our legal matters.’

‘Tim Lyon’s extensive practical experience combined with his ability to quickly identify what advice would be most relevant (and how best to deliver it) makes him a trusted and valuable advisor to our business.’

Key clients

Australian Financial Complaints Authority


Victorian Department of Transport and Planning


Life360, Inc.


Worley Limited


Basslink Pty Ltd


Victoria Police


Realbase


Goulburn-Murray Rural Water Corporation


Endeavour Energy


Resmed


Morningstar


Australian Technology Innovators


Stripe Payments Europe Limited


Levi Strauss & Co


Department of Justice and Community Safety


Work highlights


  • Assisted Central Highlands Water with its procurement of a new digital metering solution to roll out digital water meters to transform billing and data available to 150,000 residents.
  • Advised Victoria Police on its procurement of a business process automation platform and conducted energy devices for 12,000 members, including arrangements for data capture through body worn cameras.
  • Advising Bank of Queensland (BOQ) in relation to the negotiation of its arrangements with Temenos for the provision of a new cloud-based core banking system.

Gadens Lawyers

Gadens Lawyers is well versed in dealing with the gamut of digital, tech, data and cybersecurity matters, such as digital transformation and licencing. The practice is co-led by Dudley Kneller, who handles data privacy and strategic sourcing of tech for domestic and international clients, Antoine Pace, who specialises in IT and IP law, and Lionel Hogg, whose broad practice includes cryptocurrency matters.

Practice head(s):

Dudley Kneller; Antoine Pace; Lionel Hogg


Testimonials

‘The team’s breadth and knowledge, particularly in the IP and Telecommunications industry, is the best I have seen.’

‘Responds quickly, can organize a team for different issues or big projects.’

‘The team is available at all times and really understand your business.’

Key clients

4D Medical


Alauda Aeronautics


Aqura Technologies


Asia Pacific Internet Development Trust and ARENA-PAC


Carlton Football lub


Choice Hotels


Deel, Inc.


Delaware North


Dementia Australia


Fila Australia


Fintech Australia


Austin Group of Companies (Gazman, Blazer, Cable, Perri Cutten)


Interactive


Intrepid Group


Jayco


Kaplan


Melbourne Anglican Archdiocese


Nectr


Orro Group


Park Lane IT


Stile Education


Telecommunications Industry Ombudsman Limited


Vicinity Centres


Village Roadshow


Vintrace


Volkswagen Financial Services Australia


Work highlights


  • Advised 4DMedical on the preparation, negotiation and completion with I-MED Radiology of a master collaboration and services agreement for the delivery of 4DMedical’s patented technology to I-MED Radiology’s clinics.
  • Advised ARENA-PAC on negotiations with Telkom Indonesia for undersea cable capacity between Guam and Universitas Brawijaya in Malang, Indonesia.
  • Advised Delaware North in negotiations with Amazon to set up the ‘Just Walk Out’ (JWO) technology in a number of stores at the Marvel Stadium in Melbourne, Australia.

Johnson Winter Slattery

The team at Johnson Winter Slattery advises on the full range of TMT matters, including data regulation and AI. The Sydney office fields practice head Ravi De Fonseka, whose specialism is in data and IP law, Daniel Thompson, who is deemed to be an ‘exceptional problem solver who is solutions focused and always willing to think outside the box’, and Jennifer Dean, a competition and regulatory lawyer who specialises in tech, media and telecoms transactions.

Practice head(s):

Ravi De Fonseka


Other key lawyers:

Daniel Thompson; Jennifer Dean


Testimonials

‘The team is well resourced, and we always feel our matters receive timely attention from the partner. The team values client communication and always “thinks ahead” so that issues and challenges are resolved efficiently.’

‘Dan Thompson has the ability to break down complex concepts for diverse audiences, which is a skill valued by in house counsel and senior stakeholders in the business alike. He prioritises communication and engagement with clients, making sure he meets client expectations and deadlines.’

‘Dan is an exceptional problem solver who is solutions focused and always willing to think outside the box. We consider him to be a valued advisor.’

Key clients

TechnologyOne Limited


InvoCare Limited


IMDEX Limited


Mark 43 Inc


Metro Tasmania Pty Ltd


Transmax


NUIX Limited


PeopleIN Limited


Block Inc


TPG Telecom


Leidos Inc


Loyalty Pacific Pty Ltd


Origin Energy


Google


Microsoft


AMAL Trustees Limited


Perpetual Digital


EBOS Group


Cuscal Limited


ASX


Work highlights


  • Secured a landmark High Court win for Google after a long-fought battle in a defamation claim concerning search engine results.
  • Advising Mark43 in proceedings commenced against the NSW Police Force in connection with the termination of a $1.2bn contract to replace the NSW Police legacy dispatch, forensics and evidence IT systems .
  • Assisted Volvo with various aspects of its Australian ZEB project.

Sparke Helmore Lawyers

The TMT practice at Sparke Helmore Lawyers is known for its work in tech procurement along with its ability to navigate data privacy and cybersecurity-related issues, which ensures a steady stream of instructions from clients across the banking and health sectors. The group is co-led from the Sydney office by Dalvin Chien, an expert in data rights and e-commerce, and Shannon Platt, who specialises in IP litigation and brand protection. Alexandra Wedutenko works in the Canberra office; the focus of her practice is data protection and privacy, as well as cloud services.

Practice head(s):

Dalvin Chien; Shannon Platt


Other key lawyers:

Alexandra Wedutenko


Testimonials

‘Highly technical knowledge with significant experience in technology law as well as government law. No matter how complex documents have become and misunderstandings by a third party, Sparke Helmore are able to decipher the issues quickly and provide advice, and comfort, to us on the way forward. Having them be so solutions orientated rather than problem oriented is very helpful from an organisation perspective.’

‘Dalvin Chien is an impressive and very knowledgeable lawyer in the tech space. What distinguishes him is an incisive attention to detail as well as a commitment to go above and beyond to provide cogent and practical advice promptly, make himself available and ensure that he understands and responds with a clear understanding of the client’s objectives. He negotiates firmly but fairly for his client in matters that are often highly contentious.’

Key clients

BaptistCare


Westpac


Catholic Church Insurance


Infosys


The Royal Agricultural Society of NSW


Gartner


Transport for NSW


NSW Department of Planning and Environment


Valuer General NSW


Work highlights


  • Advised Valuer General NSW on the procurement of a new solution for timely, accurate, and affordable land valuation of land across NSW.
  • Assisted Westpac with the review and negotiation of a number of Master Services Agreements (MSA) for the outsourcing of call centre services and functions.
  • Advised one of the oldest insurance companies in Australia on a range of technology projects.

Squire Patton Boggs

Squire Patton Boggs services international and domestic clients, offering legal advice across tech matters, covering cybersecurity, digital media, AI and fintech. The work is overseen by James Konidaris, who often deals with high-profile global tech companies and leading TMT providers, along with Richard W Horton, who works with start-ups and emerging companies from key industries such as software, biotechnology and robotics.

Practice head(s):

James Konadiris; Richard Horton


Key clients

Akamai


Aware Services Pty Ltd


Epirus Inc.


International Technology Group


Morse Micro Pty Ltd


Salesforce


Singular Health Group Ltd


Swarmfarm Robotics Pty Ltd


Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Bahrain


Work highlights


  • Advised Swarmfarm Robotics on the A$12m Series A funding round for an Agtech robotics provider.
  • Advised Morse Micro in relation to its A$170m Series B funding round.
  • Advised Salesforce on compliance with the new EU Electronics Communications Code and international communications law requirements in 75 jurisdictions worldwide, including Australia.

Thomson Geer

Thomson Geer is a ‘full-service firm with excellent client service’, entrusted by government bodies, software companies and telcos to advise on all aspects of TMT transactions. Mark Feetham has over 30 years of experience working on media, tech and telecoms matters. He leads the group from the Sydney office and is known for giving expert advice on cybersecurity, smart grids and IoT. Demetrios Christou is another name to note, singled out for his ‘years of experience and excellent knowledge of IT and telecoms’.

Practice head(s):

Mark Feetham


Other key lawyers:

Demetrios Christou


Testimonials

‘The team is able to give excellent ad hoc advice immediately when required. Their knowledge in IT & telecoms is exceptional and second to none. The fees are also very reasonable.’

‘Thomson Geer is a full-service firm with excellent client service.’

‘Dem Christou has many years experience and an excellent knowledge of IT & Telecoms.’

‘My principal contact at the firm is Mark Feetham, who is a top tech transactions lawyer. His client service is excellent.’

Key clients

Chrysos Corporation


Rohde & Schwarz


City of Sydney


South Australian Government – Department of Correctional Services


Hyland Software


NSW Government – Department of Primary Industries


Catholic Healthcare


KindiCare


Work highlights


  • Advises on Australia’s largest outdoor advertising and street furniture contract.
  • Acted for the South Australian Government’s Department of Correctional Services in negotiations with suppliers to deliver a new prisoner management system.
  • Advising on new contractual arrangements for IT products and services provided to icare, the New South Wales government’s workplace injury insurance corporation.