The banking and finance team at Allens remains a market leader, providing bespoke solutions to major domestic and international banks, multinational corporations and governments. among other financial institutions, on a diverse spectrum of matters. Examples include leveraged finance transactions, M&A, asset finance and leasing, fund finance, project finance, margin loans and construction finance. Practice head Alan Maxton brings his corporate finance expertise to the group, whose client portfolio includes JP Morgan and Citibank and spans the aviation, dairy, mining, real estate, utilities and government sectors. Other key names include fund finance expert Tom Highnam, real estate investment specialist Jo Folan, and Rita Pang, an up-and-coming name when it comes to the financing of aircraft, yellow goods and motor vehicles. Named lawyers are based in Sydney though the team is also present in Melbourne where syndicated lending advisor, Ben O’Hoy, is a standout.
Banking and finance in Australia
Allens
Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The quality of the service is what makes Allens a stand out. The firm is a great partner and always strives to get the best outcome for clients.’
‘Jo Folan is genuinely interested in understanding our organisation. We appreciate greatly our direct access and the relationship.’
‘Alan Maxton – Depth of knowledge, superior service levels and amazing ability to turn huge workloads around quickly.’
‘Strong industry expertise, good resourcing, always delivers on time.’
‘High degree of client engagement and service, detailed knowledge of business and documentation, retained key staff members over the years with continuity of service, rolled out consistent documentation across our business. Many years of maintaining a high standard of customer service.’
Key clients
Madison Dearborn Partners
Pacific Equity Partners
Global Infrastructure Partners
JPMorgan
NSW Rural Fire Service
Toyota Finance Australia Limited
Macquarie
TPG Telecom
Wesfarmers Limited
Newcrest Mining Limited
National Australia Bank
Citibank
JPMorgan
Boral Limited
CSL Limited
Westpac Banking Corporation Australia and New Zealand Banking Group Charter Hall
Commonwealth Bank of Australia
The Star Entertainment Group
Work highlights
- Advised on the acquisition of APM Group by Madison Dearborn Partners.
- Advised Pacific Equity Partners on a transformative acquisition for its LifeHealthCare business (an independent medical device distributor), of Australian Biotechnologies (a specialist in allograft tissue processing business).
- Advised on the refinance of the syndicated facility agreement between, amongst others, Cooperatieve Rabobank U.A., Australian Branch (as Agent and Initial Financier), Westpac Banking Corporation (as Initial Financier) and Bega Cheese Limited (as Borrower) in connection with the acquisition of Lion-Dairy & Drinks Pty Ltd by Bega Cheese Limited.
Ashurst
Ashurst‘s global loans group is famed for its ‘exceptional knowledge‘ in M&A, disputes, restructuring and insolvency, asset finance and leasing. Led by Brenton Key, a property finance expert, the practice is particularly accomplished within the media, financial services, aviation, healthcare industries and caters to a client roster of global corporates and investment banks, major financial institutions, funds, alternative lenders and private equity sponsors. Shawn Wytenburg and Melbourne-based Martin Coleman are experts in respect of corporate, leveraged, acquisition and infrastructure finance meanwhile Steve Smith holds distinguished capabilities in ABL, holdco facilities and sovereign debt transactions. At the more junior end of the partnership spectrum, Kenneth Tang is carving out a prominent reputation for debt financings. Named lawyers are based in Sydney unless otherwise stated.
Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Martin Coleman; Steve Smith; Kenneth Tang; Shawn Wytenburg; Jock O’Shea; Kenneth Nguyen
Testimonials
‘Excellent delivery, exceptional knowledge, great solution providers, highly commercial and good value for money.’
‘Martin Coleman is readily accessible, a gifted and warm communicator, and very solution-focused.’
‘The team takes a commercial approach to legal negotiations and formal documentation. It is clear that the team have a deep understanding and wide coverage of industry standards as well as commercial terms – both leading to acceptable commercial outcomes and streamlined negotiations.
The team is also very responsive, and partners are well supported by their associates. In most instances, work is done in a timely manner to meet commercial outcomes.’
‘Kenneth Nguyen from the Melbourne office is a standout.’
‘Good market understanding, responsive and available as required.’
‘Jock O’Shea is a pleasure to work with. He is always on top of matters and ensures that not only is he available and engaged throughout the transaction but he is also supported by a great team of associates who are equally excellent in the support and advice they provide.’
Key clients
ANZ
CBA
ING Bank
NAB
Westpac
Bank of America
Bank of China
BNP Paribas
China Construction Bank
Crédit Agricole CIB
Credit Suisse
Goldman Sachs
HSBC
Bain Capital
Barings
Blackstone
Macquarie Capital
Coca-Cola Amatil
Crown
Nine Entertainment
Qantas
Woolworths
Work highlights
- Advised the Downer Group on its refinancing, including its award-winning A$1.4 bn sustainability linked syndicated facility agreement.
- Advised Barclays on the financing of its joint venture with Barrenjoey – an important strategic move for Barclays to strengthen its presence in Australia and accelerate its growth strategy.
- Advised, in a hybrid unitranche deal, the lead arranger and underwriter and lenders to Quadrant Private Equity in financing the secondary buy-out of TSA Management from Livingbridge.
Gilbert + Tobin
The ‘market leading’ banking and finance team at Gilbert + Tobin utilises the bench strength of its team to advise local and international lenders, sponsors, developers and multinational corporates within the infrastructure, real estate, transport, energy, construction, and healthcare sectors. Its lawyers provide a comprehensive service, supporting on M&A, project finance, restructurings, corporate facilities, property finance, social infrastructure PPPs, and syndicated debt transactions. The team is headed by acquisition, project and corporate finance authority John Schembri who is supported in Sydney by Gail Christopher, noted for her ‘deep understanding of commercial objectives‘, as well as infrastructure and energy finance specialist Adela Smith. Over in Melbourne, Simon Lynch has carved out a prominent reputation for his work on corporate facilities, LBOs, workouts and construction financing.
Practice head(s):
Testimonials
‘The team provide outstanding client service, are responsive, and adopt a commercial approach which provides real work practicality.’
‘The G&T team has strong experience with renewables transactions and working through the issues the sector has faced.’
‘Adela Smith has been in the trenches with us in the renewables sector. She has supported us through the various challenges our transaction has faced.’
‘They are the market leading practice in Australia. They deliver on a continual basis bespoke, tailored solutions for their clients and are at the forefront of innovation to deliver on client objectives.’
‘Gail Christopher and her team are across every aspect of the transaction in detail including a deep understanding of the commercial objectives and potential industry / other factors that could influence a transaction as well as during the ownership period. They work at a rapid pace with a deep pool of talent that can be drawn on and ensure best-of-breed practices and a consistent focus on excellence is achieved at all levels.’
Key clients
Alinta Energy
Airtrunk
Amcor
BGH Capital
Canberra Data Centres
Commonwealth Bank of Australia
Cleanaway
DuluxGroup
ELMO Software
GrainCorp
HSBC
IFM Investors
KKR
Nine Entertainment Group
Pacific Equity Partners
QIC
Quadrant Private Equity
Tilt Renewables
TPG Capital
Viva Energy
Westpac
Whitehaven
Work highlights
- Advised KKR on its $1.7bn acquisition of a 55% interest in each of Colonial First State Investments Limited and Avanteos Investments Limited from the Commonwealth Bank of Australia.
- Advised on the financing of the IPOs of Adore Beauty, Universal Store and DDH1.
- Advised on the JPY 45bn financing to fund AirTrunk’s construction of a new 300+ megawatt hyperscale data centre campus in Tokyo.
Herbert Smith Freehills
Herbert Smith Freehills remains a leader in the marketplace, leveraging its expansive global network and track record in representing major international and domestic banks, non-bank lenders and multinational corporates on all manner of banking and finance matters. Melbourne-based Andrew Booth fronts the local practice, in addition to the wider Asia Pacific department, enjoying a particularly formidable reputation within the manufacturing, TMT, real estate, transport and infrastructure sectors; his team’s full-service offering extends to assistance with M&A, restructurings, leasing arrangements, asset finance, and infrastructure and property finance. Support is provided in Sydney by senior partner and structured finance veteran John Angus, property finance specialist Melita Cottrell and acquisition finance expert Hayley Neilson. Debt restructuring advisor Martin MacDonald operates alongside Booth in Melbourne meanwhile the Perth office is home to Marnie Fels who has handled several standout acquisition finance matters of late.
Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
John Angus; Melita Cottrell; Hayley Neilson; Martin MacDonald; Marnie Fels
Key clients
Bain Capital
NAB
Morrison & Co
Westpac Banking Corporation
US private equity firm
BNP Paribas
JP Morgan
Mizuho
Westpac Banking Corporation
SMBC
AGL Energy Limited
Dalrymple Bay Infrastructure Management Pty Ltd
Riverside Asia Partners Pty Ltd
Crescent Capital Partners
Deutsche Bank AG
Shinsei Bank Limited
SMBC Financing and Leasing
Australia and New Zealand Banking Group Limited
Livingbridge
Synergis Fund
The Riverside Company
Yancoal Australia Limited
QIC
Eclipx Group Limited
Work highlights
- Advised Bain Capital on its acquisition of Virgin Australia Holdings Limited and its subsidiaries out of administration.
- Advised NAB on its $120m senior secured financing to Capital Alliance in relation to its $75m development of The Normanby Project.
- Advised global investment manager Morrison & Co on the financing aspects of its acquisition of an aggregate ~70% stake in Qscan, a leading Australian diagnostic imaging business with a portfolio of over 70 clinics across Australia, on behalf of two of its funds.
King & Wood Mallesons
At Hong Kong-headquartered legal King & Wood Mallesons, the team crafts tailored solutions for major domestic and international and investment banks, private equity firms, debt funds and global corporations. Melbourne-based Jonathan Oldham holds a track record in project and corporate finance matters; he co-leads the practice alongside Yuen-Yee Cho, a specialist in leveraged and general corporate finance, and Evie Bruce who serves as managing partner. The team is especially well-versed in the financial services, aviation, real estate, private equity, government, energy and resources sectors and is geared to handle everything from asset finance, acquisition financing and restructurings through to infrastructure PPPs and property finance, the latter of which is a particular specialism for the 'exceptional' Ken Astridge. Named lawyers are based in Sydney unless otherwise stated.
Practice head(s):
Testimonials
‘High degree of client engagement and service, detailed knowledge of business and documentation, retained key staff members over the years with continuity of service, rolled out consistent documentation across our business. Many years of maintaining a high standard of customer service.’
‘Ken Astridge is an exceptional lawyer who works tirelessly to achieve the best outcome for our business. His understanding of our business is outstanding and his commitment to customer service is very high.’
‘Best on the street in terms of technical expertise.’
‘Andrew Maynes is technically outstanding yet still commercial and pragmatic. The go-to partner for complex structured financing transactions.’
‘Aaron Bourke (Partner, Brisbane) is not only an excellent lawyer but a trusted adviser. Aaron is able to navigate through complex negotiations and offer appropriate commercial solutions when negotiations stall.’
Key clients
Macquarie Group
HSBC
Commonwealth of Australia
ANZ Banking Group
National Australia Bank
Commonwealth Bank of Australia
Westpac Banking Corporation
Macquarie Group
Export Finance Australia
BNP Paribas
Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation
Caydon Group
Bingo Industries
BGH Capital
Gandel Group
Industry Funds Management
Deutsche Bank
Work highlights
- Advising as Australian law, English law and international counsel over the life of the Virgin Australian Airlines administration to over 30 lessors and financiers for 98 out of the 118 financed and leased Aircraft subject to the insolvency administration proceedings.
- Advising as transaction counsel for the Commonwealth of Australia to fund the A$20bn National Broadband Network, an Australian national wholesale open-access data network project, for capital equipment expenditure.
- Advising as transaction counsel for local and international bank and financial institution clients in securing financing of Qantas Aircraft worth A$1.25bn. This involved an innovative withholding tax structure and security structure.
Allen & Overy LLP
Utilising the strength of its global team, some 1,000 lawyers strong, Allen & Overy LLP offers a comprehensive service to major national and international banks, non-bank lenders and multinational corporations active within the TMT, financial services, tourism, mining, real estate and infrastructure industries. Jason Huinink has recognised expertise in asset financing while in Perth Peter Wilkes handles areas such as debt finance transactions, acquisition and leverage finance and syndicated bank facilities, particularly in the energy and resources sectors. The group’s services also extend to restructuring mandates. Former practice head Adam Stapledon joined Corrs Chambers Westgarth in January 2022, followed by James Abbott in February.
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
“Clear strength is in the team and the individuals we work with.”
“You expect certain things from professional advisors; technical expertise, responsivenes and sound advice. The team provides all of that to a very high level but provide so much more – detailed commercial advice and views on what the market is doing, but also what the potential impact and response may be of positions taken. They are always thinking ahead and finding the best option for their client.”
Key clients
Flight Centre
IOOF
CIMIC/Thiess
QIC
Qantas Airways
Jetstar Japan
Pilbara Minerals
Macquarie
ANZ
Fortescue Metals Group
Work highlights
- Advised the financiers to NBN Co Limited (nbn), a fixed line broadband infrastructure company and primary wholesale high-speed broadband provider, on AUD$6.1bn of unsecured revolving bilateral facilities documented under a common terms deed poll platform.
- Advised CIMIC Group Limited in relation to the various consents, releases and restructuring of CIMIC’s existing financing arrangements in connection with the sale by CIMIC of 50% of Thiess, the world’s largest mining service provider, for an enterprise value of AUD$4.3bn.
- Advised Port of Newcastle on an ESG-focused refinancing transaction, which included the introduction of both a green loan and sustainability linked loan facilities with long-term environmentally and socially responsible outcomes.
Clayton Utz
The banking and financial services team at Clayton Utz advises on high-value transactions related to asset finance, property finance, social infrastructure PPPs, structured finance, fund finance, IPOs, and acquisition finance. The group is headed by syndicated corporate financing lawyer Alexander Schlosser and includes corporate finance expert Graeme Tucker, as well as acquisition finance specialist Kate O’Donovan. The client base spans major local and international banks, non-bank financial institutions, credit funds and multinational corporates from industries as diverse as aviation, software, environmental services, healthcare, real estate, retail and mining. Referenced lawyers are based in Sydney.
Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Graeme Tucker’s expertise in finance law has been invaluable, particularly for complex and structured transactions.’
Key clients
Virgin Airlines Australia
Nuix Pty Ltd
ATI Holdings Co Pty Ltd
Plenary Group
Schenck Australia
China Investment Corporation
Commonwealth Bank of Australia, Gordon Brothers, Westpac Banking Corporation
Commonwealth Bank of Australia
Collection House
Marubeni Equipment Finance (Oceania) Pty Ltd
EQ Projects & Waterbrook Retirement Living
Tianqi’s Australian entities
Myer
Sprott Resources
Blackstone Real Estate Australia
Work highlights
- Acted for Virgin Airlines Australia (VAA) and the voluntary administrators, Deloitte, on all of the finance work streams in connection with the high-profile VAA administration, sale, administrator funding and ultimate exit from the administration through the deed of company arrangement.
- Acted for ATI in respect of the first-lien TLB financing of an acquisition of Groundsure, a UK-based business and a leading supplier of environmental searches, data, mapping and reports for the UK property market.
- Negotiated for China Investment Corporation complex loan documentation for an office portfolio comprising nine prime office buildings throughout Australia, including negotiating multiple financier side deeds with key stakeholders.
Corrs Chambers Westgarth
Corrs Chambers Westgarth provides a ‘commercially pragmatic view‘ when instructed on lending and restructuring mandates, acquisition, infrastructure and project finance transactions, derivatives and corporate finance affairs. The team, which is led by the broad expertise of Rommel Harding-Farrenberg, is equipped to support all parties to a transaction including national and international banks, non-bank financial institutions, and major multinational companies, counting the food and beverages, financial services, construction, real estate, and aquaculture sectors as its key fields. The practice’s leveraged and acquisition finance capabilities were recently bolstered by the high-profile arrival of John Mosley from MinterEllison who supplements a back bench which includes international finance specialist, Brad Husband, as well as special counsel Megan Russell, adept in the financing of a various asset types. Named lawyers form part of the Sydney office with the exception of Husband who works from Melbourne. The team has been further boosted with the arrival of Adam Stapledon and James Abbott from Allen & Overy LLP in early 2022.
Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Brad Husband; Adam Stapledon; John Mosley; Megan Russell; James Abbott
Testimonials
‘Good partner involvement, good depth in the team. Matches it with the bigger firms and is significantly more price-friendly.’
‘Brad Husband – commercial, responsive, personable, knowledgeable, and delivers.’
‘Right people for the right task meaning they don’t over service and give pragmatic advice.’
‘Strong trust, commercially pragmatic view, willingness to help us achieve the goal without pushing belts and braces approaches that waste time.’
‘Rommel Harding – commercial, pragmatic, sensible – a pleasure to work with.’
Key clients
Australia and New Zealand Banking Group Limited
Coca-Cola European Partners plc
Silver Lake
Mirvac Residential (NSW) Developments Pty Ltd
Medibank Health Solutions Pty Limited
St George Community Housing Ltd
CuString Pty Ltd
Seafarms Group Limited
DWS Investments
Pacific Alliance Group
Virgin Airlines Australia
Broad Peak Investment Advisers Pte Ltd
Pulse Partnerships Pty Limited ATF Pulse
National Australia Bank
Commonwealth Bank of Australia
Macquarie Bank Limited
Work highlights
- Advised the lenders providing finance to Velocity Frequent Flyer Pty Ltd (VFF), the operator of Virgin Australia’s loyalty program, in the context of Virgin Australia’s administration.
- Advising Coca-Cola European Partners (CCEP) on its proposed A$11.1bn acquisition of Coca-Cola Amatil (Amatil).
- Advised Silver Lake, a US-based private equity house and a global leader in technology investing, on financing its acquisition of TEG, Asia Pacific’s leading live entertainment and ticketing company, from Affinity Equity Partners, estimated at around A$1.3bn.
Minter Ellison
The finance team at globe-spanning Australian firm Minter Ellison is headed by structured and asset finance practicioner James Mok. The team builds bespoke solutions for major local and international banks, non-bank financial institutions and sovereign wealth and debt funds, also representing multinational corporate clients across such industry sectors as hospitality and leisure, aviation and real estate. Other key names include property finance specialist, Tony Berriman, in addition to Daniel Marks who is particularly accomplished in respect of project finance. Named lawyers operate from Sydney.
Practice head(s):
Testimonials
‘A strong combination of deep technical and industry expertise with good people who are always accessible and committed. Excellent value for money.’
‘Darren Sumich – technically excellent but able to explain complex matters in understandable terms without omitting critical details. Very commercial in his approach preferring to focus on things that matter without spending unnecessary time and fees negotiating things that don’t. Very committed to the deal, always available any time on any day.’
Key clients
Australia and New Zealand Banking Group
Commonwealth Bank of Australia
National Australia Bank Ltd
Westpac Banking Corporation
Macquarie
Goldman Sachs
Bank of Queensland
Caterpillar Financial Australia
GIC
Qualitas Property Partners
Carlyle Group
Clean Energy Finance Corporation
BlackRock
Cromwell Property Group
Geocon Group
Hometown Australia
Sekisui House Australia Limited
Village Roadshow Limited
Work highlights
- Advised Village Roadshow on three interrelated financing arrangements put into place in connection with its acquisition by private equity firm BGH Capital by way of scheme of arrangement.
- Advised the financiers on an A$320m acquisition facility to fund telecommunications provider Uniti Group’s acquisition of carrier OptiComm by scheme of arrangement for A$532m.
- Advised ANZ on its provision of acquisition facilities for Loan Market Group to assist with funding its acquisition of 100% of NAB’s broker aggregation businesses for an undisclosed amount.
Norton Rose Fulbright
Norton Rose Fulbright caters to a roster of major local international banks, non-bank lenders, and multinational companies involved in high-value transactions. The team utilises the strength of its global network, comprising 840 lawyers over 50 offices, and provides a full-service, advising clients on acquisition finance, non-recourse lending, corporate finance, project finance, asset finance and multi-currency debt lending facilities. Tim Mornane, a lawyer with a tenacity for international restructurings, helms the group with support from corporate finance expert Nuncio D’Angelo and property finance practitioner Hamish Dixon. The client base covers the education, real estate, tech, travel, engineering, mining, energy and telecoms sectors, featuring household names such as Bank of America and HSBC. All lawyers mentioned are based at the Sydney office.
Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Great availability, associates are competent and efficient. Good value for money. Quick and commercial.’
‘Very quick responses, the staff assisting the partners are very competent in their own right.’
Key clients
Nikko Asset Management
Associated Kiln Driers Pty Ltd
National Australia Bank
ANZ
Coronado Coal
AirTrunk
HSBC
Bank of America
Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation
Daiwa House
Work highlights
- Appointed by one of the big four Australian banks to assist with analysis and categorisation of all counterparty agreements in its benchmark rate transition and to develop efficient and effective strategies for the amendment of contracts that use LIBOR [London InterBank Offer Rate] and similar benchmark rates.
- Advised AirTrunk on a company-led financing package to establish a new global multi-currency syndicated debt facility refinancing the company’s existing debt in Australia, Singapore and Hong Kong.
- Acted as legal counsel for CBA in their capacity as development funder for the second South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute building in Adelaide (SAHMRI2), a unique A$500m infrastructure project developed with funding support from State and Federal governments.
Arnold Bloch Leibler
At Arnold Bloch Leibler, the banking and finance team provides a comprehensive service to major national and international banks, non-bank financial institutions and corporate borrowers involved in high-value cross-border transactions. The group's advises clients matters such as property finance, corporate acquisition facilities, structured financing arrangements, project finance, restructuring, and insolvency. Restructuring transaction expertise is brought by team head Ben Mahoney who is also the key point of contact for debt and equity financing; he is supported in Melbourne by the 'commercially focused' Genevieve Sexton who predominantly focuses on corporate finance. The group’s client base features Freedom Foods Group Limited and the Australian Football League and covers the real estate, food and beverage, sports and entertainment, and transport and infrastructure sectors.
Practice head(s):
Testimonials
‘Genevieve Sexton is knowledgeable, responsive, and practical. I trust Genevieve to provide advice that is timely, commercially focused, and ready to be applied.’
Key clients
Freedom Foods Group Limited
Pure Asset Management
Visy
Australian Football League (AFL)
Merricks Capital
Wingate Property Finance
AsheMorgan
Medical Properties Trust
Grollo Australia
VIMG
Make Ventures
Alceon
OneVentures
Work highlights
- Advised Freedom Foods Group in relation to all aspects of Freedom’s recapitalisation, including negotiating a standstill with their principal bankers, defending litigation and in relation to their proposed capital raising.
- Advised Pure Asset Management on a number of financing transactions, and continues to provide advice on prospective transactions and the management of existing borrowers.
- Advised global packaging and recycling company, Visy, on the financing of its acquisition of the Australian and New Zealand glass manufacturing business of Owens-Illinois.
Baker McKenzie
International firm Baker McKenzie utilises a network of 77 offices in 46 countries and the experience of its team to assist major domestic and multinational banks, non-bank financial institutions, and local and international corporations on a broad range of banking and finance issues across the practice area. These are not limited to real estate finance, structured finance, derivatives, insolvency, restructuring, and acquisition financings. Headed by Duncan McGrath in Sydney, a specialist in corporate finance, securitisation and debt capital markets matters, among many other matters, the group’s portfolio features HSBC and Citibank and spans industries such as energy, agribusiness, food and beverages, financial services, transport, and insurance. McGrath is backed by acquisition finance expert Alastair Gourlay in Sydney and Melbourne-based Charlie Detmold whose recent workload included a standout revolving credit mandate.
Practice head(s):
Testimonials
‘First-class – always available and prepared to go that ‘extra mile’ to support your request.’
Key clients
Allianz
ANZ (Australia & New Zealand Banking Group)
Beulah International
Bright Food Group
CDPQ
Citibank
Commerzbank
DBS Bank Ltd
Genex
HSBC
Industrial and Commercial Bank of China Ltd
Lendlease
Manildra
MUFG
National Australia Bank
NEFG
Regional Express Holdings
Rio Tinto
Société Générale
Telstra Corporation Ltd
Work highlights
- Advising HSBC and other arrangers on an AUD $1.5bn sustainability-linked loan to ASX-listed Ramsay Health Care Limited.
- Advised ANZ (as Agent) and a syndicate of 20 domestic and international banks on an AUD $1bn revolving facility for Telstra Corporation Limited.
- Acting for Genex on all aspects of the $610m financing for Genex’s Pumped Hydro project in Queensland.
Clifford Chance
Providing a personalised service to major local and international banks, non-bank lenders, and multinational corporates involved in high-value transactions, the ‘internationally experienced ‘group at Clifford Chance provides a full range of banking and finance services. These include assistance with acquisition finance, project finance, structured products, insolvency, and regulatory compliance. In Sydney, Richard Gordon demonstrates a track record in financing transactions meanwhile Chad Bochan leverages distinguished expertise in infrastructure financings, IBOR transition projects and green financings throughout the Asia Pacific region; the pair co-head the department together with recently promoted partner Elizabeth Hundt Russell and Perth-based Mark Gillgren who provides the group with specialist expertise in respect of trade and commodity finance. The team’s client base features Barclays and Shell and encompasses players in oil and gas, renewables, mining and metals, healthcare and infrastructure sectors.
Practice head(s):
Richard Gordon; Chad Bochan; Mark Gillgren; Elizabeth Hundt Russell
Testimonials
‘Global experience and a top-tier focus across all geographies allowing the interconnected team to deliver global expertise taking the best practice/most innovative solutions from each market and applying them.’
‘Richard Gordon is trusted by the market including global investment banks, credit funds and other advisers as being able to navigate and deliver solutions to difficult situations in a timely manner.’
Key clients
Partner’s Group
Credit Suisse
Barclays
Citibank
HSBC
AMP Capital
Global Infrastructure Partners
Asian Development Bank
Glencore
Shell
Work highlights
- Advised HSBC Bank plc and the other active bookrunners in the syndication of Glencore’s refinancing of its short-term syndicated revolving credit facilities.
- Appointed by GIP to advise the lenders on the financing for their bid to acquire a 26.5% stake in the Shell-operated Queensland Curtis LNG (QCLNG) Common Facilities (which included LNG storage tanks, jetties and operations infrastructure that service QCNLG’s LNG trains).
- Advised the Nature’s Care group, as borrower, in relation to its financing arrangements.
Dentons
Dentons provides a one-stop shop to major local and international banks and non-bank financial institutions involved in cross-border high-value transactions. In Sydney, real estate finance expert Timothy Lipscombe co-heads the team with Chris Fanning who has been instructed on a number of debt transactions throughout the Covid-19 pandemic. The team’s client base is spread across the financial services, real estate, and renewables sectors and features key market players Deutsche Bank and Citibank. Examples of work undertaken include construction finance, leveraged and acquisition finance, asset finance, debt restructuring and structured products.
Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Much more access to partners and managing associates compared to other law firms.’
Key clients
Australia and New Zealand Banking Group Limited
Commonwealth Bank of Australia
National Australia Bank Limited
Westpac Banking Corporation
HSBC
St George Bank
ING Bank (Australia) Limited
Macquarie Bank Limited
Rabobank Australia Limited
Bank of China
United Overseas Bank Limited
Overseas Chinese Banking Corporation
DBS Bank Limited
Deutsche Bank
Citibank
Bank of Communications
Bank of Queensland
Suncorp-Metway Ltd
Bankwest
First Commercial Bank of Taiwan
Perpetual Trustees Limited
Bendigo and Adelaide Bank Limited
Heritage Bank
Members Equity Bank Limited
Qudos Mutual Limited
Teachers Mutual Bank Limited
Credit Union Australia Limited
Greater Building Society
Flexigroup Limited
Societe Generale
Work highlights
- Advised Australia and New Zealand Banking Group Limited, Commonwealth Bank of Australia and ING Bank (Australia) Limited senior lending syndicate in relation to the provision of structured secured construction finance facilities to a Sydney developer in relation to a large mixed-use residential and retail development in Sydney with mezzanine finance provided by an Australian mezzanine finance fund, valued at $350m.
- Advised the Australia and New Zealand Banking Group Limited and Commonwealth Bank of Australia senior lending syndicate in relation to the provision of structured secured construction finance facilities to Billbergia Group in relation to the development of a 48 level commercial and hotel tower in North Sydney with mezzanine finance provided by Metrics Credit Partners.
- Advised ANZ as senior lender in relation to the provision of senior secured finance facilities to a large Sydney hotel operator in connection with the refinancing of the debt corresponding to its hotels.
Johnson Winter & Slattery
Lawyers at Johnson Winter & Slattery assist major national and international banks, non-bank lenders and multinational corporates involved in high-value transactions, on a broad range of issues; these range from acquisition and leveraged finance, syndicated financing arrangements and financial products through to project finance, debt restructurings, and insolvency matters. Spearheaded by veteran leveraged finance practitioner David Beckett in Brisbane, the group’s portfolio features Eagers Automotive and CleanTech Asia and covers the automotive, tech, energy and resources, construction, logistics and infrastructure sectors. Craig Wappett supports the team in Melbourne, particularly in relation to securities-related mandates.
Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Key clients
Eagers Automotive Limited (ASX: APE)
REV
CleanTech Asia Pty Ltd
Work highlights
- Advising Eagers with all aspects of its senior syndicated financing requirements.
- Advised REV on all aspects of its investment in, and funding of, the Ecotech Project, including structuring, investment and funding agreements.
- Advising the CleanTech Asia Pty Ltd and its shareholders on the financing, due diligence, structuring and governance arrangements.
K&L Gates
The finance group at K&L Gates provides tailored solutions to advise major local and international banks, non-bank financial institutions, debt funds, and multinational corporates on matters such as acquisition and leveraged financing transactions in addition to asset, property, project and infrastructure-related finance. In addition, the group is equipped to support on restructuring and insolvency mandates, owing to the dedicated expertise provided by team head Jason Opperman; he operates from the Sydney office which recently saw the arrival of Richard Hayes from Hogan Lovells, a move which bolsters the group's general corporate finance, funds financing and acquisition finance capabilities.
Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Key clients
J.P. Morgan
Citibank
Macquarie Bank
Commonwealth Bank of Australia
Westpac
Scentre Group
Banner Asset Management
Centennial Property Group
Canadian Solar
Splend Group
Wiluna Mining Corporation Limited
Tanarra Credit Partners
Work highlights
- Advised J.P. Morgan on the structuring, negotiation and documentation of an AU$735m financing for Infrabuild Australia comprising an AU$250m asset-based revolving facility and US$325m senior secured bond issuance.
- Advised Scentre Management Limited on a $1.5bn 144A note issue; an update to €10bn program and on an issue of $HK notes; and a new A$ medium term note program.
- Advised Canadian Solar on the 189MW Suntop Solar Farm and 154MW Gunnedah Solar Farm projects which have a total value of approximately AU$400m. The team also supported on all aspects of the projects, including the property, planning, corporate, EPC, O&M and project financing.
DLA Piper
Headed by Onno Bakker, a lawyer who directs his focus towards general banking, syndicated lending and leveraged finance mandates, the team at DLA Piper provides a comprehensive service when advising major national and international banks, non-bank financial institutions and multinational corporates across the financial services, tech, insurance, mining and resources sectors. The group's full-service covers acquisition finance, asset finance, project finance, and syndicated lending and restructuring. Hugo Thistlewood works alongside Bakker in Sydney, running a broad caseload which encompasses property and construction finance and syndicated and mezzanine lending in addition to structured finance.
Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The team works well together, from partner down to associate. Things just seem to work, all are contactable and issues can be resolved without too much hassle.’
‘Very skilled at dealing with different scenarios. No overbearing egos, all are very approachable and knowledgable.’
Key clients
Washington H. Soul Pattinson and Company Limited
Hotel Property Investments
McDermott Australia Pty Ltd
HSBC Bank
Westpac Banking Corporation
Australia and New Zealand Banking Corporation (ANZ)
Keolis Downer Pty Ltd
Salt Lake Potash Limited
Sprott LLP
Suncorp Group Limited
Graphic Packaging International Inc.
PricewaterhouseCoopers Advisory Australia Pty Limited
Webjet Limited
Naturalena Brands Holdings Pty Ltd
McGrath Nicol Limited
BNP Pariba
Work highlights
- Advised Washington H. Soul Pattinson and Company Limited (WHSP) on its A$225m convertible notes offering.
- Advised Webjet in relation to the amendment and extension of existing club facilities with HSBC/NAB/ANZ of A$135m in total.
- Assisted Broadspectrum on financing arrangements for its sale by Ferrovial.
Gadens Lawyers
Noted by for its 'fantastic client service', the banking and finance group at Gadens Lawyers advises national and international banks, funds, non-bank funds, superannuation funds, offshore lenders, and multinational corporations involved in high-value cross-border transactions. The team assists clients with acquisition financing arrangements, property finance, secured loan facilities, restructuring, due diligence and social impact bonds. Under the leadership of corporate finance and debt capital markets expert Doug Scobie, the group’s client portfolio covers the construction, pharmaceuticals, retail, automotive, leisure and tech sectors. Elliot Raleigh is a veteran of many construction and property investment financing matters, operating from Melbourne alongside Scobie. Over in Sydney, Renae Suttor is relied upon for her debt finance knowhow, both secured and unsecured.
Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Very strong banking and finance team with fantastic client service.’
‘Technical ability, excellent drafting and strategic advice.’
‘Renae Suttor- excellent and solid drafting and commercial negotiation skills. Easy to work with and pleasant manner.’
Key clients
Australia and New Zealand Banking Group Ltd
Goodyear Australia
Kathmandu Holdings Ltd
Judo Bank
Commonwealth Bank of Australia (incl. Bankwest and
Colonial)
Computershare
Citadel Group
National Bank Australia
Westpac Banking Corporation (incl. St George and
Bank of Melbourne) No
Cbus Property
Work highlights
- Advised PDG Corporation on the A$170m construction financing with National Australia Bank Ltd for the QVM Munro site in the Queen Victoria Market Precinct, including negotiating complex tripartite arrangements with Mirvac, Hamilton Marino, City of Melbourne and Veriu.
- Advised Vitex Pharmaceuticals, a leading pharmaceutical manufacturer based in Western Sydney, in relation to a senior secured loan facility for it and its related companies for the purposes of refinancing the group’s existing indebtedness, funding capital expenditure requirements of the business and for working capital purposes.
- Advised DCF Asset Management Pty Ltd on the acquisition and debt funding of distressed assets from Rapid Securities Ltd.
Hogan Lovells
‘Technically strong and a very safe pair of hands’, Hogan Lovells leverages the strength of its globe-spanning network to advise domestic and international banks and financial institutions on a broad spectrum of matters, both domestic and cross-border. These include acquisition and leveraged finance, asset finance, fund finance and restructuring and insolvency. Bryan Paisley, often instructed on loan portfolio management transactions, co-heads the group jointly with Scott Harris, a lawyer vastly experienced on the restructuring front; the pair operate from Sydney alongside senior associate Lisa Mazor whose expertise encompasses syndicated and bilateral corporate finance transactions, among other matters.
Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Proactive, people-driven team who don’t struggle with deal fatigue. The team takes a pragmatic approach to transactions and can deliver on short deadlines in a professional manner without dropping the ball. Essentially the next best thing to having an in-house legal team.’
‘Bryan Paisley is a standout partner. He is technically strong, diligent and responsive but also commercial, pragmatic, always across the detail while never losing sight of the bigger picture.’
Key clients
Emeco Holdings Limited
Home Consortium Limited
HomeCo Daily Needs REIT
Revolution Asset Management Limited
HSBC Bank plc
Efficient Frontier Investing
Work highlights
- Acted as advisers to HDN in relation to the A$400m syndicated financing provided to support the establishment and listing of the real estate investment trust which was on the ASX by capital raised (A$301m) in 2020.
- Advised Revolution Asset Management (Revolution) on the establishment of a A$40m subscription finance facility for Revolution Private Debt Fund II with National Australia Bank.
- Advised Aware Super on its consortium bid in conjunction with Macquarie Infrastructure and Real Assets for ASX listed Vocus Group Limited.
McCullough Robertson
Coordinating with offices in Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne, Newcastle and Canberra, the finance team at McCullough Robertson crafts custom solutions to counsel major Australian banks, non-bank lenders and government lending bodies. The group assists with a broad range of services, ranging from debt restructurings, leveraged and acquisition financings through to real estate and development financings and syndicated and bilateral finance transactions. Led by lender side banking specialist Wei Lim in Brisbane and property finance expert David Gilham in Sydney, the group's work spans the mining and resources, real estate, transport, agribusiness, retail and construction sectors.
Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Wei Lim. Deep understanding of how banks think. Personable, commercial, efficient & intelligent.’
‘Market leading knowledge of complex property development financing. We go to them for the more complicated matters, which they deal with well. Emile McPhee is a stand-out. The team is large enough to be able to deal with any matter and to deliver if people are away.’
‘A strong practice that clients can always rely on to deliver. Good bench strength and coverage across multiple areas. We primarily use them for banking and finance and construction law.’
‘David Gilham goes above and beyond. Has a great understanding of commercial and legal balance and works well across varied lenders and complex finance arrangements.’
Key clients
Australia and New Zealand Banking Group Limited
Northern Australia Infrastructure Facility
Queensland Rural and Industry Development Authority
Macquarie Bank Limited
Global Student Accommodation
National Australia Bank
Bank of Queensland
Westpac / St George
The JAGA Group
Toplace
Work highlights
- Advised Northern Australia Infrastructure Facility on funding provided to Central Queensland University for its capital expenditure programs including campus upgrades and refurbishments.
- Assisted Macquarie Bank in relation to loan facilities provided to the Canberra Airport Group in respect of its landmark office and retail development at Constitution Place, Canberra.
- Acting for ANZ, NAB and Westpac on institutional property lending transactions including residential tower construction, land subdivision projects and industrial land development.
Pinsent Masons LLP
Pinsent Masons LLP, a global firm with 26 offices on four continents, advises major national and international banks, non-bank lenders and multinational corporations on a wide span of matters across the practice area. Expertise encompasses leveraged and acquisition finance, asset finance, corporate finance, structured finance and project finance in addition to restructuring and workouts. Practice head Jeremy King, a member of the Melbourne office, holds distinguished expertise in a number of industries, namely social infrastructure, energy, aviation, shipping, mining, water and sanitation.
Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The team led by Jeremy King is very responsive and commercial and not afraid to ask hard questions.’
‘Jeremy King has an excellent knowledge of the space, is commercial and very responsive.’
Key clients
Tesla
Australia and New Zealand Banking Group (ANZ)
Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group (MUFG)
ING Bank
Australian Gas Infrastructure Group (AGIG)
Australian Gas Networks
GFG Alliance
Lloyds Bank
HSBC
Barclays Bank
The Tokyo Star Bank, Limited
SIMEC Energy Limited
Abacus Property Group
Turner & Townsend
Asian Development Bank
Barwon Healthcare Property Fund
Work highlights
- Advising Australian Gas Infrastructure Group on a A$4bn secured debt program which has been rated A3 by Moody’s and BBB+ by S&P.
- Advising GFG Alliance on securing up to A$450m in new working capital to replace the working capital facilities provided to GFG by the recently insolvent Greensill.
- Advising the senior bank syndicate on the A$240m refinancing of the 106.6MW Bald Hills Wind Farm located in Tarwin Lower, Gippsland, Victoria.
Thomson Geer
Thomson Geer is a domestic firm with offices in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth and Adelaide; it acts for major banks, financial institutions, lenders and retail and wholesale fund managers on a broad spectrum of issues. The Melbourne office is home to debt funding expert Andrea Wookey while over in Sydney, David Murray-Nobbs is proficient in commercial lending and development and equipment finance. The team is also noted for its capabilities in acquisition, asset, structured, project and property finance in addition to loans and credit facilities, funds management, restructuring and insolvency mandates.
Other key lawyers:
Andrea Wookey; David Murray-Nobbs; Armando Scenna ; Jeff Baker
Work highlights
- Advised Sunbot Technologies and Foresight Group in relation to a two year technology finance and prototype development project with the Stanhope Solar Farm, developed, owned and managed by Providence.
Colin Biggers & Paisley
Colin Biggers & Paisley demonstrates a tenacity for acquisition, corporate and syndicated, property finance and construction finance in addition finance-related disputes and restructuring and insolvency. Sydney-based practice head Kate Craig is principally active in the debt finance field, placing a high degree of emphasis on the hotel, residential and commercial property sectors. The wider team is also adept in the financial services, food manufacturing, health and life sciences sectors, acting for a client base which spans major national and multinational banks, non-bank financial institutions and international corporates.
Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Key clients
Hindmarsh Constructions Pty Limited
Oversea-Chinese Banking Corporation Ltd & United Overseas Bank
Avari Capital Limited
Jana Pty Limited as part of the Trinity Constructions Group
825 Stanley Pty Ltd as part of the Sarazin Group
Chobani Pty Limited
DBS Bank
Stamford Capital
Work highlights
- Advising OCBC Bank on its syndicated credit facility for Mulpha Australia.
- Advising on the negotiation of its refinancing of existing ANZ indebtedness and liaising and managing interests of Australia and the US divisions of Chobani.
- Acting for Sarazin Group in the negotiation of a construction and development facility for the Group in relating to a large development in Brisbane.
Hall & Wilcox
Hall & Wilcox leverages the strength of a network of over 800 lawyers and 7 offices across Australia. It fields a banking and finance practice which is particularly accomplished within the corporate and property finance fields though also demonstrates proficiency in structured finance and leasing, finance-related disputes, construction finance and acquisition finance. In Melbourne, Mark Inston brings over 25 years’ worth of experience to the table, representing borrowers and banks alike. The client base spans the manufacturing, transport, real estate, and energy and renewables sectors and includes key market players Credit Suisse and Westpac.
Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Hall & Wilcox are a boutique Melbourne-based firm who have excellent specialist knowledge in the financial service space. Partners & staff are friendly and approachable. Billing is clear and reasonable and they use technology as expected for a firm of their size.’
Key clients
Westpac
Bendigo and Adelaide Bank
Credit Suisse
Westport Capital
Dahua Group Melbourne Investment Pty Ltd
China Everbright Bank Co., Ltd
Newmark Capital Limited
Bluescope Steel
LeasePlan Australia
Work highlights
- Reappointed as advisors for NewCold (a leading global cold chain logistics service provider) to advise on the cross border refinancing of its flagship automated cold storage facilities in Melbourne and Sydney, Australia.
- Advising Dahua Group (headquartered in Shanghai, China) on multiple residential projects across Sydney and Melbourne including the A$1.5 billion master plan project in Menangle Park, Sydney and ‘Hawthorn Park’ a 345-unit residential development in Hawthorn East and legal advisor for banking facilities relating to Melbourne based projects.
- Advising Newmark Capital (with almost $1bn in funds under management) in relation to a syndicated facility with CBA to refinance multiple shopping centres in Victoria, New South Vales, Queensland and Tasmania.
Maddocks
Established in 1885, Maddocks offers a full line of bespoke banking and finance solutions for domestic and international banks, non-bank financial institutions and corporate borrowers. The group centres its practice around corporate, property and structured asset finance and is jointly helmed by Sydney-based Arlene Colquhoun and property financing expert Ilan Kraus in Melbourne. The group acts for clients in the property, manufacturing, and renewable energy sectors and represents major market players such as Macquarie Bank and Commonwealth Bank of Australia.
Practice head(s):
Testimonials
‘Excellent knowledge and service. Very experienced proactive team.’
‘Extremely good knowledge of the real estate structured finance industry.’
Key clients
Macquarie Bank
Commonwealth Bank of Australia (CBA)
JDH Capital
Madigan Capital Pty Ltd
Greenland Group
Jingle Property
Kings Transport & Logistics
Juris Partnerships
ID_Land Group of Companies
Lechte Corporation
Occasio Projects Pty Ltd
MA Asset Management Australia (Moelis)
Newground Capital Partners
Monark Property Partners
Centuria Bass Capital
CVC Ltd / Eildon Funds Management Ltd
Qualitas
Work highlights
- Acting for Commonwealth Bank of Australia and drafting and negotiating a facility agreement and related securities in connection with the acquisition by a newly formed entity of a 45% ownership interest in several companies owning approximately 10 hotels located in and around the Greater Sydney area.
- Negotiating all facility documentation associated with providing funding for the acquisition of the iconic Sirius Building located on Sydney harbour.
- Advising Newground on a multi-tranche structured debt facility secured against the Coburg Quarter project (old Pentridge prison) in Coburg, Victoria.
Mills Oakley
With offices in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Canberra and Perth, Mills Oakley Lawyers is geared to support on project, corporate and acquisition finance in addition to syndicated lending and workout and restructuring mandates. In Sydney, real estate finance expert Graeme Gurney helms the practice meanwhile Tim Macmillan is the key contact for project finance. Clients include domestic and multinational banks, non-bank financial institutions and major corporate borrowers from sectors such as hospitality, financial services and construction.
Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Expertise, timeliness, responsiveness to attend to matters in addition to a fee structure that is not cost-prohibitive.’
‘Always comes back in a timely manner. Can run high-level matters past them without worrying about getting charged. Isabella Barnes is a star.’
Key clients
AEP Developments
Ark Asset Management
Austar Group
Australian Mortgage Marketplace Limited
Bank of Communications
Bank of Queensland Limited / BOQ Equipment Finance Limited
China Everbright Bank Co. Ltd
CIP Pte Ltd
Crown Resorts Limited
CUA
DNB Bank
First Commercial Bank (Taiwan)
JY Mulpha BB Level 2 Pty Ltd being a consortium of Australian and foreign entities.
Macquarie Bank
QLD Capital Pty Ltd
RSL Lifecare
Scottish Pacific Business Finance
UIL Commodities DMCC/ UD Holdings
Work highlights
- Advised Crown Resorts on an $450m development financing to support the continuation of construction of the Crown Sydney hotel resort.
- Advised Qualitas as co-purchaser under a joint venture arrangement with Pelligra for the acquisition and staged development of the Ford Assembly Plant at Broadmeadows in Melbourne.
- Advised Macquarie on the $A170m residual stock financing of Greenland’s Macquarie Park mixed development.