Ashurst > Melbourne, Australia > Firm Profile
Ashurst Offices

LEVEL 26
181 WILLIAM STREET
MELBOURNE VIC 3000
Australia
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Ashurst > The Legal 500 Rankings
Australia > Banking and finance Tier 1
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:
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.
Australia > Competition and trade Tier 1
Ashurst has a strong record across merger clearances, ACCC enquiries, cartel defence and energy market issues. The team has multi-jurisdictional expertise and maintains a top-tier client list in a variety of industries, including the financial services, technology, government, and energy sectors. Of particular note is the firm’s work on ACCC’s long-running Big Tech investigations, alongside a number of major competition and market investigations. The team is led by Peter Armitage, an experienced figure who regularly advises on merger clearances and defends clients in high-profile ACCC litigation. Ross Zaurrini specialises in cartel and enforcement proceedings, while Brisbane’s Alyssa Phillips is highly active in merger control proceedings. Melbourne’s Justin Jones has a strong focus on infrastructure access and energy matters, and Melissa Fraser combines merger clearance work with standout work on ACCC investigation and enforcement proceedings across the financial services, infrastructure and consumer goods sectors. Tihana Zuk was promoted to partner in early 2021, and is noted for her work on high-profile digital economy issues.Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Excellent technical knowledge coupled with experience across a range of industries enables the team to deliver accurate and pragmatic counsel.’
‘Justin Jones is accessible and has a great ability to communicate in a way that’s relevant to his clients. A wise counsellor.’
‘Experienced practitioners from quite senior partners to quite young (but really good) ones, experience across contentious and non-contentious matters.’
‘Tihana Zuk is my go to person. She’s responsive, pragmatic, engaging for training with our business people.’
‘A team of great individuals, who work very effectively together, to deliver great insight and strategic direction to matters, as well as market-leading service and attention to the detail.’
‘The Ashurst Competition team is particularly effective because they work so well together as a team.’
‘Peter Armitage is a stand out for clear, practical, considered advice on strategic direction and likely outcomes. His judgment is genuinely exceptional. Ross Zaurrini is a very experienced regulatory litigator and is a cool head in high-stakes investigations and prosecutions.’
‘Alyssa Phillips is exceptional in merger clearance and transactions. Her global experience gives her a terrific perspective and approach.’
Key clients
AGL Energy
AIA International
Air Niugini
Alkaloids of Australia
Arrotex
Aurizon Holdings Limited
Australian Shopping Network Pty Ltd
B.Solar
Baby Bunting
Bank of America
Cardtronics
Cleanaway Waste Management
Commonwealth Bank of Australia
Downer EDI
EnergyAustralia
Fletcher Building
GLNG
Goldman Sachs
Hipages
Imperial Brands
Informed Sources
Kellogg
Lendi
LVMH Moët Hennessy
McLaren Group Limited
Mitsubishi Development
Nick Scali
Nine Entertainment
Nutrien
Prosegur
Rolex
Royal Automobile Club of Western Australia, Inc
Samsung Electronics
True Alliance
Uber
Woodside Energy
Woolworths Group Limited
Work highlights
- Represented Aurizon in proceedings brought by the ACCC in connection with the proposed sale of the Acacia Ridge rail terminal to Pacific National, after final appeals by the ACCC to the Full Federal Court and High Court were dismissed during 2020.
- Advising Alkaloids of Australia Pty Ltd on criminal cartel proceedings commenced by the Commonwealth Director of Public Prosecutions, following a criminal investigation by the ACCC.
- Advising Google on the ACCC’s Digital Platform Services Inquiry, which is currently examining the provision of web browsers and general search services to Australian consumers, and gathering information for the ACCC’s advice to the Government on Google’s rollout of choice options on Android devices in Europe.
Australia > Construction Tier 1
Ashurst provides clients with comprehensive advice during major real estate projects, with a particular focus on energy, infrastructure, natural resources, transport and telecommunications. The firm is also well-equipped to handle construction litigation, relating to infrastructure projects, commercial and residential developments. Melbourne based partner Grant Rowlands stands out for his expertise in major public sector-led projects such as advising the Department of Defence on the construction of a number of facilities across Australia. Sydney partner Georgia Quick specialises in complex construction disputes and arbitration proceedings while Gareth Sage, who is also based in Sydney, is advising Transport for NSW on several major projects, including the Western Harbour Tunnel and Beaches Link programme. Ben Kipic (counsel) is part of the teams handling a number of complex public transport construction projects and Bree Miechel joined from Reed Smith LLP in late 2020.Practice head(s):
Grant Rowlands; Gareth Sage; Georgia Quick
Other key lawyers:
Ben Kipic; David Jardine; Olivia Lau; Krista Payne; Bree Miechel
Testimonials
‘Excellent industry experience and knowledge. Always flexible, motivated and highly responsible. Commercial approach with good understanding of government requirements for infrastructure project delivery.’
‘I have worked with most of the partners and many of the senior team within this firm. I’m always impressed with substantive depth of this team – particularly its partners. Their technical skills and those of the senior lawyers is undoubtedly exceptional. Their advice and communications are commercial and client-orientated – and never esoteric like some of their competitors.
‘Ashurst are budget conscious and regularly send updates as to how the matter is tracking against the budget – there are no nasty surprises on the billings front. The Ashurst team make my job easier. They are a pleasure to work with. I couldn’t rate them highly enough.’
‘Angus Foley is the lead infrastructure partner. He is incredibly knowledgeable about the industry and adept at overlaying this knowledge so that legal advice as imparted is strategic and given in a commercial context. Although he is clearly very busy, he always makes himself available when needed.’
‘Krista Payne imparts a resolute calmness in the midst of high-stakes transactions that means that we, as clients, feel the she is on top of things no matter how complex. Her sharp intellect reassures us that we have one of the best legal minds in our corner. Despite this her unassuming manner means she’s a pleasure to work with.’
‘Bree Miechel is relatively new to the Ashurst partnership, but already she has built a reputation for being smart, hard-working, solution-orientated and focused on meeting deadlines.’
‘Gareth Sage has a strong reputation in the Australian market as an expert in construction. He is technically brilliant, leads a good team and is easy to work with. He knows how to add value. What more could a client ask from from its lawyer.’
Key clients
Sydney Metro
General Electric
Keolis Downer
Transport for NSW
State Solicitor’s Office (WA)
WSA Co Limited
Santos Limited
Department of Defence
University of Melbourne
Transdev Australasia
Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation
Edify Energy
Endeavour Energy
WaterNSW
Parramatta City Council
Work highlights
- Advising GE on Murra Warra 2 and the Bango Wind Farm projects.
- Advising WSA on the procurement of the A$5.3bn Western Sydney International (Nancy Bird Walton) Airport due to be completed by 2026.
- Advising Sydney Metro on an ongoing basis on all aspects of the Sydney Metro City & Southwest project.
Australia > Dispute resolution: arbitration Tier 1
Ashurst is active in both international and domestic arbitration within the energy and resources and construction arenas. The team is co-led by Brisbane-based Jeremy Chenoweth, head of the firm’s Asia Pacific dispute resolution practice, who has particular expertise in project development disputes, and Georgia Quick, who was also appointed president of ACICA in June 2021. Peter Voss is also a notable member of the team, with extensive experience in cross-border disputes, as is Bill Smith. All named lawyers are based in Sydney unless stated otherwise.Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The team are extremely bright, practical and easy to work with.’
‘Bill Smith is outstanding: very clever, extremely knowledgeable and very pragmatic and commercial, as well as being a delight to work with.’
‘Georgia Quick is a star: hardworking, technically brilliant and very responsive. It’s a pleasure to work with her team.’
‘I value Georgia Quick’s responsiveness and availability. She always looks for solutions through the lens of what the client needs. In the past year she has delivered some great outcomes for us.’
Key clients
AGL Energy Limited
Airservices Australia
Alcoa Corporation
Australian Naval Infrastructure Pty Ltd
CBRE Pty Limited
Gold Coast City Council
Hochtief AG
Idemitsu Australia Resources Pty Limited
LafargeHolcim Ltd
Leighton Offshore Pte Limited
MMA Offshore Limited
MMI Indonesia Investments Pty Ltd
Nexus Infrastructure Pty Ltd
Northern Oil & Gas Australia Pty Limited
Northern Star Resources Ltd
NorthWest Healthcare
NSW Government
Orica Limited
Paladin Solutions PNG Ltd
Roads and Maritime Services
Shell International Limited
SRG Global Limited
Sydney Metro
Whitehaven Finance Company Pty Ltd
Wiggins Island Coal Export Terminal Pty Limited
Woodside Energy Ltd.
WorkPac Pty Ltd
WSA Co Limited
Yanzhou Coal Mining Company Limited
Australia > Dispute resolution: class actions Tier 1
Ashurst‘s class action team is strong in a variety of areas, including financial services, employment, automotive and shareholder disputes, acting for corporates, financial services firms and government bodies. Jeremy Chenoweth leads the dispute resolution practice in Brisbane, whilst Ian Bolster and Mark Bradley head up the class action practices in Sydney and Melbourne, respectively. Sydney-based John Pavlakis is recognised for his skills in consumer class actions and third-party funding orders. The team continues to act for Woolworths Group in defending the claim brought against it regarding alleged underpayment of store managers.Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Experienced, thoughtful and well-rounded litigators.’
‘Easy to work with, highly commercial and switched-on disputes team. Good understanding of our values and commercial drivers. Bring thoughtful and clearly explained solutions to the client’s problems.’
‘The team has offered us great strategic insight, blended with very efficient and responsive client service and communication.’
‘Ian Bolster is an energetic, intelligent and perceptive partner. He is particularly sought after in financial services litigation. A very solid analytical lawyer with an unpretentious and genuine manner.’
‘Ian Bolster and his team are an absolute stand out. Easy going, commercial and able to think outside of the box to find solutions to complex problems. Happy to trust them with the most important pieces of litigation we have.’
‘Ian Bolster is exceptional as a litigator – focused, practical and with a clear view of the longer term objectives. ’
Key clients
Australia and New Zealand Banking Group Limited
Commonwealth Government of Australia
BMW Australia
KPMG
Murray Darling Basin Authority
Deloitte
NSW Government
Macquarie Bank
McGrath Nicol
Bank of America Merrill Lynch
Kagara Ltd
Colonial Mutual Life Assurance Society
Woolworths Group
Work highlights
- Acting for BMW Australia Limited in defence of a Supreme Court of NSW class action regarding allegedly defective Takata airbags.
- Acting for Woolworths in the class action brought in respect of its alleged underpayment of store managers.
- Acting for KPMG in the defence of a Supreme Court of Victoria shareholder class action against former Arrium directors and KPMG as the auditor of Arrium.
Australia > Dispute resolution: litigation Tier 1
Ashurst‘s dispute resolution team is highly adept at handling energy and resources, financial services, construction and infrastructure disputes, as well as class actions and domestic and international arbitrations. The practice is heavily involved in contentious litigation, regulatory and corporate investigations, and enforcement. Brisbane-based Jeremy Chenoweth is practice group head, and the team has benefitted from the arrivals of financial services litigator Nicholas Mavrakis from Clayton Utz, and construction and projects disputes specialist Matthew Blycha, who was previously managing partner at HFW and is based in the Perth office. Andrew Carter has specialist expertise in corporate and securities regulation and litigation and Rani John and Wen-Ts’ai Lim have strength in commercial litigation. All named lawyers are based in Sydney unless noted otherwise.Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The team is great in all aspects of its practice and provides excellent analysis and support.’
‘The team has offered us both great strategic insight, blended with very efficient and responsive client service.’
‘Easy to work with, highly commercial and switched on Disputes Team. Good understand of our values and commercial drivers. Bring thoughtful and clearly explained solutions to complex problems.’
‘Experienced, thoughtful and well-rounded litigators.’
Key clients
AGL Energy Limited
Airservices Australia
Alcoa Corporation
Australian Naval Infrastructure Pty Ltd
CBRE Pty Limited
Gold Coast City Council
Hochtief AG
Idemitsu Australia Resources Pty Limited
LafargeHolcim Ltd
Leighton Offshore Pte Limited
MMA Offshore Limited
MMI Indonesia Investments Pty Ltd
Nexus Infrastructure Pty Ltd
Northern Oil & Gas Australia Pty Limited
Northern Star Resources Ltd
NorthWest Healthcare Australian Property Proprietary Limited
NSW Government
Orica Limited
Paladin Solutions PNG Ltd
Roads and Maritime Services
Shell International Limited
SRG Global Limited
Sydney Metro
Whitehaven Finance Company Pty Ltd
Wiggins Island Coal Export Terminal Pty Limited
Woodside Energy Ltd.
WorkPac Pty Ltd
WSA Co Limited
Yanzhou Coal Mining Company Limited
Work highlights
- Representing CPH Crown, James Packer, Guy Jalland and Michael Johnston in the high profile Inquiry initiated by the Independent Liquor and Gaming Authority (the Inquiry) in August 2019.
- Acted for ANZ in defending a civil penalty proceeding brought by ASIC relating to periodical payment non-payment fees.
- Acting for AGL in a multi-billion joint venture dispute between Tri-Star Petroleum and APLNG, concerning the marketing and sale of natural gas and the ownership of project infrastructure.
Australia > Energy (transactions and regulatory) Tier 1
With broad capabilities, Ashurst’s team has a particularly strong reputation in projects relating to renewable energy, new technologies and the move towards becoming net zero. Paul Curnow, who leads the team from Sydney, is highly regarded in the Australian market, given his strong reputation in renewable energy and sustainable finance. His recent work highlights include advising EDF renewables on its first investment in Australia. In Brisbane, Paul Newman is recognised for assisting clients with project development and critical acquisitions underpinning major energy initiatives. Caroline Lindsey in Perth has notable expertise in domestic gas sales, which is supplemented by broader experience in energy and natural resources projects.Practice head(s):
Paul Curnow
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The Ashurst team provides quality advice across the broad spectrum of Energy sector agreements. My experience is in Oil and Gas with Ashurst and I have found their work exceptional from joint venture agreements, marketing agreements – GSAs and LNG SPAs, transport agreements (including LNG Shipping time charters), terminal use agreements to name just a few. I have experience working with other firms and also across the table from other firms and the individuals I have worked with at Ashurst are the best practitioners I have come across.’
‘The individual lawyers responsible for the key disciplines of law we deal with are truly dedicated, highly experienced in their field of expertise and deliver exceptional and sound advice. More importantly they think outside the box and are very driven in delivering the best outcome for us. This is very evident in their collaborative nature and working closely with you to achieve the desired outcome.’
Key clients
AGL
Jemena
BHP
CleanCo
EnergyAustralia
Macquarie
Vena Energy
Shell
Santos
Oil Search
Edify Energy
Work highlights
- Advised Tilt Renewables on the acquisition of its business by a consortium led by Powering Australian Renewables (PowAR – a partnership between AGL, QIC and the Future Fund) and Mercury NZ Limited for A$2.8bn, the largest renewable energy deal in Australia’s history.
- Advised Infrastructure Capital Group on its co-investment in an Australian renewable energy investment platform with a joint venture including Engie and Mitsui to create one of Australia’s largest renewable energy investment platforms.
- Advised Woodside on the negotiation, finalisation and implementation of a gas processing agreement and all associated documents to transform Karratha Gas Plant into a third party tolling facility.
Australia > Environment and planning Tier 1
The powerhouse environment and planning team at Ashurst continues to be a market leader, advising domestic and international corporations and governments on a broad range of environmental and regulatory matters. These include major infrastructure, mining and renewables projects, environmental litigation and climate change issues. Headed in Sydney by environmental law authority Tony Hill, the team’s client portfolio includes EnergyAustralia and Crown Resorts. The full service practice also covers environmental risk management, local government obligations and requirements, investigations and enforcement, and contamination disputes. The group also incliudes resources sector expert Mark Brennan in Sydney, John Briggs and associate Paul Wilson in Brisbane, and senior energy consultant Robert Jamieson and compliance specialist Jane Hall in Melbourne.Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The Ashurst team provides definitive advice. We get a clear, succinct answer to our questions. Where there are options, these are described clearly with the respective advantages and disadvantages. The padding and unnecessary discussion we have seen from other practices is not present.’
‘Mark Brennan is simply excellent. His experience and focus on black letter law is excellent.’
‘Rob Jamieson has extraordinary experience.’
‘Jane Hall is a highly personable and experienced ambassador for the firm.’
Key clients
NSW Government
Victorian Government
Queensland Government
Melbourne City Council
Malabar Coal
NBN Co
Alcoa of Australia
AGL
EnergyAustralia
Crown Resorts Ltd
Work highlights
- Advising Woodside Energy’s newly established carbon business unit on all aspects of the implementation of its carbon market strategy.
- Advising Alcoa on the closure and remediation of two of its sites (Point Henry aluminum smelter and Anglesea coal mine and power station), two of the largest sites currently under active management by Victorian EPA.
- Advised the NSW Government (Roads and Maritime Service – now TfNSW) on the 33km WestConnex project which will bring together a number of road projects which together to form a link in Sydney’s Orbital Network.
Australia > Intellectual property Tier 1
Split between Melbourne and Sydney, Ashurst's dedicated IP team is active in significant litigation and commercial mandates regarding patents, copyright, designs and trade marks for both local Australian and major international clients. Particular sector focuses include food and therapeutic goods regulation, product launches and labelling, lotteries and promotions, and media regulation. The team is also active academically, publishing IP-related articles, podcasts and analysis. Anita Cade is now practice group head after taking over from Hall of Fame lawyer Lisa Ritson, who still plays an active role in the team managing IP portfolios. Kellech Smith, Stuart D’Aloisio and Nina Fitzgerald are also significant team members.Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘They are one of the leading intellectual property practices in Australia capable of handling large scale patent, trade mark and copyright litigation, which they do on a regular basis. They are also part of a major international law firm which brings various advantages. They have very good teams of associates and lawyers working with them. In my experience, collectively they provide great service to their clients both in terms of their legal ability and in their approach to the strategy of litigation. I regularly recommend them to clients seeking representation in the intellectual property space in Australia.’
‘Technically excellent. Very client-focussed and commercial.’
‘Amazing attention to detail and incisive thinking, great project management.’
‘Stuart D’Aloisio (partner, Melbourne) is an excellent litigator, with a particular focus on patent litigation. He regularly acts in major pharmaceutical and life-science patent cases. In my experience he is a shrewd litigator and an outstanding lawyer, with great judgment and appropriate attention to detail in the way that he prepares cases. To my observation he also has good client relationship skills. He has a first rate team of associates and lawyers working with him.’
‘Stuart D’Aloisio is a great all rounder. He is exceptionally knowledgeable and a clear thinker, but also across the details of project management and client management.
‘Nina Fitzgerald is a great client manager and a good team manager.’
‘Nina Fitgerald and Kellech Smith partners. Both outstanding lawyers.
Key clients
Advance Magazine Publishers
AGL Energy
AIA Australia
AliBaba Group
Ant Group
ANZ Bank
Apotex
Arrotex
Australia Post
Baby Bunting
BHP Group
Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health
Bubs Australia
CBRE
Certegy
Challenger
Chicago Mercantile Exchange
Chocoladefabriken Lindt & Sprüngli
City of Melbourne
Clifford Hallam Healthcare
Combe International
CondeNast Publications
Crown Resorts
Diageo
Discovery Communications
EC Design
Endemol Shine Australia
EnergyAustralia
Fila
Henley Arch
IGT Australia
Lego Group
Lifestyles Healthcare
McCain Foods
Merisant
Monster Energy
Mylan
Navitas
Peloton Interactive
PGS Australia
Resolution Life
Samsung Bioepis
Shopify
SPC Foods
SunPharma ANZ
Sydney Opera House Trust
Tat’s Trading
Woolworths Group
WSA
Work highlights
- Acted for energy company AGL in an ex parte interlocutorand injunction application, expediting a Federal Court of Australia hearing against Greenpeaceasserting copyright and trade mark infringement in relation to the use of AGL’s logo in a Greenpeace media campaign.
- Acting for Henley Arch in trade mark infringement and misleading & deceptive conduct proceedings in the Federal Court against Henley Constructions, concerning the latter’s use of the “HENLEY” trade mark (and similar marks) in relation to building services in Sydney.
- Represented Sun Pharma in patent litigation brought by Mylan before Australia’s Federal Court, Full Federal Court and High Court regarding the cholesterol-lowering drug “LIPIDIL”.
Australia > IT and telecoms Tier 1
The Australian digital economy team at Ashurst works closely with the firm’s international team on major projects within the technology, financial services, telecoms, government, energy and resources, and infrastructure sectors. Telecoms strategies, international projects, digital infrastructure and transformations, and advising on digital regulation, are also core focuses of the group, in addition to providing support on technology-focused M&A deals. Brisbane-based Amanda Ludlow is the global co-head of the group and is particularly strong in the legal and regulatory space regarding digital infrastructure, such as subsea and terrestrial fibre networks. Tim Brookes in Sydney advises technology suppliers and customers on technology and outsourcing contracts, whilst Angela Summersby in Canberra is notable for her governmental sector work, including procurement, contracts, software development and licensing, and data protection and privacy. Clare Doneley in Brisbane specialises in procurement and outsourcing transactions across a range of sectors.Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Passion for telecommunications work and great business partners.’
‘The Ashurst team has deep experience of submarine cable construction and related terrestrial network infrastructure build arrangements.’
‘The team is led by a very capable partner with many, many years of experience in this area in the Australian market. Plus the team includes very capable junior lawyers with lots of drive.’
‘Rebecca Cope is very responsive, creative in her problem-solving and brings a commercially pragmatic mindset to her work which is valued. She is trusted not only by the client but puts the counter-party at ease over extended negotiations, and helps smooth the path to contract closure.’
‘Amanda Ludlow is highly experienced in the telecoms infrastructure business. She’s unflappable under pressure and combines her strong technical skills with a firm commitment to getting the deal over the line.’
‘Tim Brookes is an extremely experienced partner who is able to execute very large deals smoothly and with good rapport with all parties involved.’
‘Emma Butler is exceptionally accommodating with billing arrangements and has provided an innovative retainer, delivering enormous value at very substantial discounts. She is very personable and has gone out of her way to look after the wellbeing of her clients.’
‘Geoff McGrath is exceptionally strong in telecommunications regulations and commercial contracts. He is very detailed and thorough in his advice, and does his best to provide a quick turnaround. He mixes legal knowledge with business acumen and a practical approach.’
Key clients
AGL Energy Limited
Australia and New Zealand Banking Group Limited
Commonwealth Bank of Australia
Commonwealth Government
Meta (Facebook)
NBN Co Limited
NSW Government
Rio Tinto Limited
Toll Holdings Limited
Westpac Banking Corporation
Woolworths Group Limited
Work highlights
- Advised Facebook on 2Africa, the largest digital infrastructure subsea cable project in the world, connecting over 23 countries in Africa, the Middle East, India, the UK and Europe.
- Advised AGL Energy on requirements arising from the launch of its telecommunications brand, including mapping of regulations and industry codes.
- Advised the Commonwealth Bank of Australia on its strategic Technology Simplification project that is intended to streamline CBA’s technology landscape with the aim of reducing operational complexity, risk and cost.
Australia > Labour and employment: workplace health and safety (WHS) Tier 1
Ashurst fields a leading workplace health and safety team with a strong client roster consisting of both public and private clients, including state and federal government agencies, major infrastructure companies and energy and resources businesses. The team is highly adept at advising on major safety incidents regarding fatalities and serious incidents, prosecutions and work-related coronial inquests, in addition to advising officers on personal liability work. Compliance and governance mandates are also handled by the team. Lea Constantine heads up the team from Sydney and frequently advises boards and senior officers on compliance issues. Brisbane-based James Hall has particular expertise in the coal arena and is sought after for advise in Queensland, and Trent Sebbens is skilled in industrial relations.Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The team goes above and beyond to meet our needs.’
‘Incredibly responsive, well informed and familiar with this particular industry and its regulators across Australia.’
‘Lea Constantine is always available to give a quick suggestion on how to appropriately respond in investigations and in slower litigation/prosecution alike. Systematic and able to anticipate regulator behaviours in a way that allows me to prepare the board for next steps.’
‘James Hall is incredibly responsive, strategic and commercial.’
‘Ian Humphreys has enormous experience and always looks to provide the personal touch to assist our business.’
Key clients
Qantas Airways
IBM
Alcoa Corporation
Workpac
Lend Lease
Anglo American
Woolworths
University of Sydney
Norske Skog
Commonwealth Government of Australia
McDonalds
Airservices Australia
NSW Government
AGL
Optus
University of Tasmania
Sports Integrity Australia
Puma Energy
Nova Group
Work highlights
- Acting for Anglo American at a Board of Inquiry into 41 methane gas related incidents at Queensland underground coal mines between 1 July 2019 and 6 May 2020, and the serious accident that injured five coal mine workers at Anglo American’s Grosvenor Mine on 6 May 2020.
- Acting for the Victorian Government on the joint Commonwealth-Victorian funded program of rail line and other infrastructure upgrades across Victoria’s regional rail network.
- Advising and assisting a manufacturer, (BOC) Linde, in relation to third party inquiries into a fatality and injury.
Australia > Labour and employment Tier 1
Ashurst has a strong practice that offers advice across the whole spectrum of contentious and non-contentious employment law mandates to national and Asia-pacific-based clients; these matters include workplace relations issues, executive remunerations, industrial relations in the rail, transport, mining and government sectors, discrimination matters and workplace health and safety work. The group has also played an active role in assisting its corporate clients with rectifying past underpayments. Stephen Woodbury is based in Sydney and is the global head of employment with an impressive list of clients, including Woolworths, McDonalds and the University of Sydney; Woodbury is adept at advising on industrial issues as well as employment litigation. Brisbane-based Ian Humphreys has expertise in complex strategic matters, while in Sydney, Jennie Mansfield is adept at acting for major banks and other financial institutions. Julia Sutherland advises private and public sector clients on workplace health and safety compliance.Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The team goes above and beyond to meet our needs.’
‘James Hall is incredibly responsive, strategic and commercial.’
‘Ian Humphreys has enormous experience and always looks to provide the personal touch to assist our business.’
Key clients
Qantas Airways
IBM
Alcoa Corporation
Workpac
Lend Lease
Anglo American
Woolworths
University of Sydney
Norske Skog
Commonwealth Government of Australia
McDonalds
AGL
NSW Government
Commonwealth Government
Airservices Australia
Optus
University of Tasmania
Sports Integrity Australia
Puma Energy
Nova Group
Work highlights
- Advised Qantas Airways Limited in relation to a number of significant matters relating to the stand down of employees across the Qantas Group, including two significant pieces of litigation: 1) the proper interpretation of the legislation introducing the federal JobKeeper Payment scheme and 2) whether employees who are stood down are entitled to access paid personal/carer’s leave, where the High Court refused to grant the unions special leave to appeal the matter.
- Advised the University of Sydney on all aspects of a misconduct process involving an academic and defending claims in the Fair Work Commission and Federal Court.
- Acting on behalf of WorkPac in the High Court of Australia in a matter challenging the Federal Court decision in Rossato which ruled that casual employees employed on a long term and systematic basis are at law, permanent employees and entitled to all benefits of permanent employment including paid annual leave.
Australia > Media and entertainment Tier 1
The media law practice at Ashurst remains a market leader, providing strategic counsel to high-profile clients involved in commercial transactions and media disputes. An experienced team led by Anita Cade advises television broadcasters, print and news media outlets, and global tech conglomerates such as Conde Nast, News Corporation, and Google, on a broad spectrum of matters. These include the liability of search engines for defamatory results, IP portfolio management, and responding to applications for permanent injunctive relief. The team is supported by media reform authority Robert Todd, IP expert Lisa Ritson and Peter Armitage, known for his expertise in competition law. All lawyers mentioned are at the Sydney office.Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Experienced partners, who have worked on a wide range of matters across the media industry.’
‘Anita Cade is the principal partner that we work with, and she is a standout. She understands our business and our needs, she is very responsive and provides practical solution-oriented advice on a wide range of areas from corporate, marketing, product counseling and content licensing and defamation matters.’
‘Anita Cade for general IP is engaging and client focussed. Robert Todd is very experienced in litigation for defamation and related matters – passionate about the industry and protection of journalists.’
‘The Ashurst team lead by Robert Todd is inquisitive, innovative and solutions focused. They are aware that the operation of the law occurs against and within policy and political spheres, and they bring broad experience across these spheres to clients. The team is comfortable with ambiguity and saying so, with planned strategies to deal with all foreseeable eventualities – while producing exceptional work product. They are very comfortable pushing boundaries and innovating to achieve clients’ outcomes.’
Key clients
Nine Entertainment Co. Holdings Limited
News Corporation / Nationwide News
Google LLC
Australian Securities and Investment Commission (ASIC)
Re.Group Pty Ltd and Naveen David Singh
Trusted Media Brands, Inc.
ITV Granada
News Life Media
Discovery Communications
Conde Nast Publications
Work highlights
- Acted for clients Nationwide News, publisher of The Daily Telegraph, and journalist Annette Sharp in defamation proceedings brought against them over print and online articles published by them.
- Acted for News Limited, the Sunday Telegraph, and its political editor Annika Smethurst in a successful High Court challenge to warrants obtained by the Australian Federal Police that sought to authorise a police raid on Smethurst’s property.
- Managing the broad brand portfolio for Discovery Communications in Australia and advising on various copyright, trademark, and intellectual property matters, including a number of contentious matters involving intellectual property infringements.
Australia > Native title Tier 1
Ashurst has a strong proponent-side practice, advising major energy and resources companies, governments and infrastructure providers, working on major native title agreements relating to significant developments, including high-value matters and precedent-setting agreements and litigation. The team also advises traditional owners, and operates on a national basis. The team is led from Brisbane by Tony Denholder, a leading specialist within native title law, who advises major mining companies and Aboriginal corporations on an array of land access, native title and mining law issues. Clare Lawrence in Melbourne is active in legislative change, and has handled innovative governance reforms and sensitive heritage issues. Perth’s Andrew Gay is a strong performer within the Western Australia resources space, securing complex native title agreements and the successful implementation of said agreements. Also in Perth, senior associate Cheyne Jansen combines advice to proponents on native title agreements with representing clients in compensation proceedings. In Brisbane, senior associate Libby McKillop works with a number of major resources clients on land access and cultural heritage matters.Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Ashurst are the leading firm in Western Australia for matters relating to Native Title. Their expertise and long-held reputation sets them apart from similar firms.’
‘Andrew Gay is a stand out amongst the legal advisers we work with across a range of matters. He is personable, knowledgeable, easy to deal with, and consistently delivers above expectations.’
‘The Ashurst team are very highly skilled and experienced, use a range of strategic approaches and can quickly deliver practical advice and results. Their fees are very reasonable, but given the service and expertise they bring, higher fees wouldn’t deter me in the least.’
‘The Ashurst Native Title practice have been a constant source of guidance and support in navigating the complex aspects of this area of law. Most impressive has been their ability to interpret legal aspects of our activities and apply this guidance in the context of our operational goals and plans.’
‘Highly engaging, superbly competent and an ability to recruit specific expertise from across the Ashurst environment to compliment the Native Title advice where required.’
‘Nationwide expertise that supports our operations.’
‘The Ashurst Native Title team holds a sound knowledge of all relevant legislation, legal issues and key industry stakeholders & native title parties, which are maintained through a demonstrated passion for this area of law. All advice is tailored to client needs and delivered in a practical fashion allowing for a quick absorption of key, salient issues.’
‘Clare Lawrence – incredible strategy and knowledge. Absolute trust in her ability to provide timely advice. Nothing is ever too much.’
Key clients
Transport for New South Wales
New Century Resources
Evolution Mining
Regis Resources
nbn
Gold Fields Australia
Glencore
Yancoal
AGL
Urban Utilities
Gundjeihmi Aboriginal Corporation/Northern Land Council
Adani
Urban Utilities
Work highlights
- Advised New Century Resources Limited as the owners of Century Mine on the site’s operations, closure and re-start.
- Advising Evolution on a range of indigenous land law issues in relation to the Cowal Gold mine near West Wyalong in New South Wales.
- Advising Regis Resources on indigenous land law issues for all aspects of the McPhillamy’s Gold Project, a greenfield open cut gold mine and associated water pipeline and powerline development in central west NSW.
Australia > Natural resources (transactions and regulatory) Tier 1
Ashurst’s practice supports clients in the natural resources sector throughout the project value chain, focusing predominantly on the mining industry. Alongside its strong transactional and regulatory work, the firm handles litigation arising in the sector, including various fore majeure and frustration claims brought following disruption caused by COVID-19. Gaelan Cooney leads the practice from Perth, focusing primarily on assisting lenders and borrowers with financing transactions, including project finance, acquisition finance and asset finance. Antonella Pacitti (Perth) has an exceptional transactional practice, having led on several of the largest M&A deals in 2020, including Galaxy Resources $4bn merger with Orocobre Limited. Associate Marina Tinning is also a core member of the group. Lorenzo Pacitti departed to King & Wood Mallesons in October 2021.Practice head(s):
Gaelan Cooney
Other key lawyers:
Key clients
Adani Australia
Anglo American
BHP
Deterra Royalties Limited
Evolution Mining Limited
Galaxy Resources
Glencore
Iluka Resources Limited
Indemitsu
Ioneer Ltd
Marubeni
Minerals Council of Australia
Mineral Resources Limited
Mitsubishi
Mitsui
New Century
Northern Star Resources Limited
Peabody Australia
Regis Resources
Rio Tinto
Roy Hill Holdings Pty Ltd
Sandfire Resources NL
Sheffield Resources
Sojitz
South32
Sumitomo
Vale
Yancoal
Yara International
Work highlights
- Advised Northern Star Resources Ltd on its A$16bn merger with Saracen Mineral Holdings Ltd.
- Advised Deterra Resources Limited in connection with its demerger from Iluka Resources Limited and separate listing on ASX.
- Advised Galaxy Resources Limited on its A$4bn merger with Orocobre Limited by way of a scheme of arrangement.
Australia > Project development Tier 1
Headquartered in Sydney, Ashurst’s nationwide practice is best known for its role in major transport projects and its expertise in emerging sectors, such as renewable energy and Infratech. Of particular note, the firm recently advised on the Honolulu Light Rail Project. Lee McDonald (Sydney) stands out for his role in the aforementioned project, in addition to Sydney Metro City & Southwest project. Angus Foley (Sydney) specialises in advising public and private sector clients in relation to major infrastructure projects and project financing transactions. Brisbane partner Alex Guy is currently advising Transport for New South Wales on the large-scale regional rail DBFM project while Krista Payne is entrusted with major mandates by the likes of Sydney Metro.Practice head(s):
Lee McDonald; Angus Foley
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Ashurst has led project development on many of the major infrastructure projects across Australia in the past decade. The strength of its know-how in this space positions it as the pre-eminent practice in this area. They invest in client relationships such that they work with us in a seamlessly collaborative manner.’
‘Angus Foley and Krista Payne are star performers in this field. They deeply understand the market within which our projects are procured and how risk appetite can shift from mega-project to mega-project. There are layers of excellent SAs and lawyers underneath them that gives depth to this team. The team is responsive and friendly: a pleasure to deal with.’
Key clients
Sydney Metro
General Electric
Keolis Downer
Transport for NSW
State Solicitor’s Office
WSA Co Limited
Santos Limited
Department of Defence
University of Melbourne
Transdev Australasia
Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation
Edify Energy
Work highlights
- Main legal adviser for Sydney Metro advising on all aspects of the SMC&SW project.
- Advising WSA on the procurement of the A$5.3bn Western Sydney International Airport.
- Advising Transport for NSW on the Western Harbour Tunnel and Beaches Link program.
Australia > Project finance Tier 1
The team at Ashurst remains a leader in project finance work, advising major international corporations, financial institutions, public sector entities and developers on every stage of large high-value projects, from M&A to dispute resolution. The group’s client portfolio features Bank of America Merrill Lynch and Transport for NSW, with recent work covering a broad spectrum of sectors including the energy (a 209MW wind farm in Victoria), mining (a $300m gold mine in Papua New Guinea), and infrastructure (the North East Link PPP project, which includes the construction of a Melbourne freeway) industries. The team is led by cross-border financing authority Chris Redden, resource project expert David Mason, and procurement specialist Simon Irvine in Sydney, financial products adviser Gaelan Cooney in Perth, and power development doyen Chris Skordas in Melbourne. The group also fields associate Douglas Fung in Sydney.Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Strong experience and ability to clearly present the issues from a lender’s standpoint, and to best defend the lenders’ interests during negotiations.’
‘Gaelan Cooney provides solid and sound advice on a timely basis when requested.’
‘High knowledgeable partner open to introducing non-market standard concepts and mechanisms into financing agreements.’
‘Chris Redden is highly experienced and provided a strong guiding hand to assist us in our first project financing. It’s reassuring to have that support. Chris is very good at explaining the rationale for commercial positions and is open-minded to introducing new ideas/mechanisms that are non-market standards. Chris is very responsive to client enquiries, provides high-quality deliverables, and has good bench strength/resourcing to turn documents around quickly.’
‘Pragmatic, client focused approach to closing the transaction.’
‘Very knowledgeable and responsive. Focused on commercial intent as opposed to being stuck in the legal drafting.’
Key clients
Macquarie
Santos
Edify
NAIF
Bank of America Merill Lynch
Sheffield Resources
Transport for NSW
Vena Energy
Infrastructure Capital Group
EnergyAustralia
Wiggins Island Coal Export Terminal
Work highlights
- Advised the financiers on the project financing of the 209MW Murra Warra Wind Farm (Stage 2) in Victoria.
- Acting for the ASX listed Geopacific Resources and its PNG subsidiary Woodlark Mining Limited on the project financing of its gold mine and processing facility on Woodlark Island in PNG.
- Advising the financiers supporting the ViaNova Consortium on its bid to develop the North East Link Primary Package PPP.
Australia > Restructuring and insolvency Tier 1
Ashurst is active across the restructuring and insolvency space, handling distressed acquisitions on behalf of buyers and sellers, advising on complex domestic and cross-border restructurings, and playing a key role in insolvencies and corporate collapse matters. James Marshall leads the team, working across the Asia-Pacific on major financial restructurings and distressed acquisitions, advising investors, lenders and company boards; while Ross McClymont in Melbourne is another key figure with a strong record in restructuring and insolvency administrations of significant size. Tony Ryan primarily acts for lending banks, syndicates and debt market participants, while Michael Sloan plays a key role in large-scale business turnarounds, and Camilla Clemente handles receiverships and schemes of arrangement. Perth’s Jason Salman has a strong focus on the energy and resources sector, working with major distressed players in the sector. Melbourne-based Alinta Kemeny has international experience from the firm’s London office and notable capabilities in high-profile, multi-jurisdictional consensual financial restructurings. Lawyers are in Sydney unless otherwise stated.Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Able to tap into a global network. Can scale quickly if required.’
‘Alinta Kemeny is a stand-out – young, connected, significant US and UK experience, always available. Really terrific to deal with.’
‘Top tier team with top tier partners and staff. Usually unconflicted when it comes to global mandates and they have the ability to think out the box to derive creative solutions. Thoughts leaders in the field with great breadth across the country.’
‘James Marshall – Industry leader in the restructuring and insolvency field. Known for the ability to drive an outcome with a creative solution. A great degree of executive presence and is around most of the large mandates. A sought after practitioner in the market especially if getting to an outcome is going to be difficult.’
Key clients
ANZ
CBA
NAB
Westpac
HSBC
Deutsche Bank
BAML
Macquarie
Mizuho
Wells Fargo Bank
KordaMentha
McGrathNicol
Deloitte
PPB Advisory
FTI Consulting
KPMG
Ernst & Young
Grant Thornton
Ferrier Hodgson
PwC
Bain Capital Credit
KKR
Apollo
CPPIB
Oaktree Capital
Värde Partners
King Street Capital
Centerbridge
Davidson Kempner
Anchorage
Amgen Inc
BBY Limited
Boart Longyear Limited
Consolidated Press Holding
Cleanaway Operations
Galaxy Resources
GE Commercial Corporation (Australia)
Norske Skog AS
NorthWest
Wiggins Island Coal Export Terminal Pty Ltd
Work highlights
- Advised the Ovato Group on the restructuring of its retail print business through the implementation of an inter-conditional creditors’ scheme of arrangement, and member’s schemes of arrangement and other related financial restructuring transactions.
- Advised Toll and Japan Post on the sale of Toll’s Global Express business to Australian private equity fund manager Allegro Funds.
- Advised Boart Longyear on its proposed recapitalisation and redomiciliation.
Australia > Tax Tier 1
Ashurst bolstered its tax practice with the addition of indirect tax specialist Costa Koutsis from PwC LLP, diversifying the expertise of a team already recognised for its strength in transactional tax matters and complex restructurings. Clients include a number of listed companies, as well as private equity and other investment funds, including superfunds. Vivian Chang leads the team and advises on corporate and financial services transactions both domestic and international, while Barbara Phair has a strong track record in transactional and project taxation work alongside representing clients before regulators in contentious cases. Sanjay Wavde advises on income tax matters, most notably relating to fund management, transactional and infrastructure mandates. Melbourne’s Geoff Mann specialists in indirect taxes, advising on GST, stamp duty, land and human resources tax. Lawyers are in Sydney unless otherwise mentioned.Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Ashurst’s Tax team covers income tax and GST, as well as state based taxes such as stamp duty and land tax and Ashurst Tax have advised our group in these areas. While the tax team is a small team within a larger legal practice, the team is of good size, which is important to ensure a quality work product, produced in a reasonable time. The Ashurst Tax team works very well with the our disciplines within the larger Ashurst practice and this has been important for us, having engaged Ashurst on numerous “whole of firm” major projects over the past few years.’
‘The main individuals we work with are Vivian Chang, Barbara Phair and Costa Koutsis (all partners) and Steve Whittington (Senior Associate). These individuals are very strong tax technicians and frequently demonstrate a legal knowledge beyond tax. I would use this team if I need heavy duty tax research and analysis of issues as this is their strength. The team have been able to work through and implement, together with their corporate colleagues, a number of restructures and it has been helpful to our business to have one legal firm implementing these major transactions rather than us having to co-ordinate multiple advisers.’
Key clients
Oxford Properties Group
Woolworths Group Limited
NorthWest Healthcare Properties
ANZ Group Limited
Uber
Downer EDI
Macquarie Group
Brookfield Property Group
Mirvac Limited
Toll Group
Energy Australia
Ivanhoe Cambridge
PIMCO Australia Management Limited
University of Melbourne
Intermediate Capital Group
Lendi/Auscred
Fletcher Building Limited
Sydney Metro
GFG
VGW
QUBE
Endeavour Energy
Plenti
Work highlights
- Advised Woolworths Group Limited on the A$12bn proposed separation of its retail drinks and hospitality business to create an independent ASX-listed company, Endeavour Group Limited.
- Advised Toll and Japan Post on the sale of Toll’s Global Express business to Australian private equity fund manager Allegro Funds.
- Advised Magellan Asset Management on the development and launch of Magellan FuturePay.
Australia > Capital markets
The capital markets group at Ashurst remains a key market player, advising major national and multinational banks, non-bank lenders and international corporates on a diverse spectrum of matters in the debt, equity and securitisation areas. Headed up by Bruce Macdonald and supported by Andrew Kim, the equity capital markets team acts for clients on IPOs, block trades, acquisitions and mutual capital instruments. The debt capital markets and securitisation teams, which are overseen by global finance co-head Jamie Ng and field Jennifer Schlosser and Caroline Smart, assist dealers, arrangers and managers with high-value issuances, and advise originators and financiers on new investments. All lawyers mentioned are based in the Sydney office. Sarah Dulhunty departed in December 2021.Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The Ashurst Capital Markets – Debt practice team is highly experienced, professional and efficient. The breadth of knowledge of the team supports coverage across a range of structured credit solutions and innovations.’
‘Our key partner is Jennifer Schlosser who advises on a range of transactions both for issuers and funders as well as providing advice to other parties, including on the buy side. Jennifer is excellent with clients and provides insightful and well-informed views on a range of specific matters and end-to-end transactions whether in drafting or reviewing counsel capacity.’
Key clients
ANZ Securities
Bank Australia
Brighte Capital
Commonwealth Bank of Australia
Deutsche Bank
Energy Resources of Australia
Judo Bank
KKR
Macquarie Capital (Australia)
Morgans Financial
Morgan Stanley Australia Securities
National Australia Bank
Northern Star Resources
NorthWest Healthcare Properties Management
Ord Minnett
Woolworths Group
Work highlights
- Advising Woolworths Group on the proposed A$12bn separation of its retail drinks and hospitality business to create an independent ASX-listed company, Endeavour Group.
- Advised the consortium owners (KKR, Värde, Deutsche Bank) in respect of the IPO of Latitude and their part-exit from the ownership of Latitude.
- Advised Export Finance Australia in relation to the establishment of a $2bn Euro-commercial paper programme.
Australia > Corporate and M&A Tier 2
Ashurst works with an array of household-name corporates on major public M&A, working effectively on cross-border deals in collaboration with its global teams. The team also works with major private equity clients and investment funds on buyouts and investments, and has strong sector focuses including the real estate, financial services and resources industries. The team is led by Melbourne’s John Brewster, who advises on large-scale public and private M&A mandates, active dealmaker Anton Harris and Mark Stanbridge , who leads on the firm’s largest private equity transactions. Phil Breden remains a key player, working with blue-chip clients on major strategic deals, while Perth’s Antonella Pacitti is noted for her combination of transactional and board-level advice. Andrew Kim was promoted to partner in late 2020. Lawyers are in Sydney unless otherwise stated.Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Breadth and depth of their experience and talent. A top flight law firm providing a top flight service.’
‘John Brewster is an excellent M&A lawyer. He is able to get to the core of the issue and provides advice in a calm and measured manner.’
‘We trust Ashurst with our most complicated legal requirements and they always deliver great results.’
‘Phil Breden is a stand out partner who leads a team of dedicated associates.’
‘Ashurst has a strong corporate franchise in Perth. A strong understanding of the resources sector combined with a market leading corporate M&A skill set position Ashurst to participate in many of the major transactions centred in Perth.’
‘Roger Davies has a commanding position in Perth amongst corporate and M&A lawyers, which is thoroughly deserved. With the assistance of his team, he strikes the right balance of conservatism and commerciality, while remaining good natured and friendly even under pressure.’
Key clients
Allegro Funds
ANZ
Auscred (Lendi)
Automotive Holdings Group
Barclays PLC
Blackstone Group
Deterra Royalties
Downer EDI
DW Healthcare Partners V, LP
HOCHTIEF AG
Infrastructure Capital Group
Mortgage Choice Ltd
Macquarie Group
Northern Star Resources
Mortgage Choice Ltd
Tilt Renewables
Woolworths Group Limited
Work highlights
- Advising Woolworths Group Limited on the proposed A$12bn separation of its retail drinks and hospitality business to create an independent ASX-listed company, Endeavour Group Limited.
- Advised Northern Star Resources Ltd on its A$16bn merger with Saracen Mineral Holdings Ltd. The merger was implemented by way of a members’ scheme of arrangement under which Northern Star acquired all of the shares in Saracen.
- Advised Lendi on its merger with CBA’s Aussie Home Loans business to create the Lendi Group.
Australia > Financial services regulatory Tier 2
The financial services regulation group at Ashurst combines the experience of its team with its Ashurst Risk Advisory Consulting service, to advise major domestic and international banks and insurers on executive accountability, risk management, regulatory change programs, and operational risk. The team is known for having a ‘very deep knowledge of the Australian regulatory landscape’, and its ability to give ‘clear advice across a wide range of markets topics‘. The group is headed by regulatory authority Jonathan Gordon at the Sydney office and backed by payment services expert Philip Trinca in Melbourne, dispute resolution specialist Andrew Carter, and investigation and enforcement advisor Corey McHattan in Sydney.
Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Very deep knowledge of the Australian regulatory landscape – able to give clear advice across a wide range of markets topics. They have a commercial approach, but balanced with firm risk culture as well. Ashurst is the go-to firm for financial regulatory work.’
‘Jonny Gordon is an outstanding regulatory partner – he is responsive, intelligent, always pleasant and has his pulse on the regulatory approach.’
‘Jonathan Gordon – an excellent advocate with strong knowledge of regulatory frameworks. Jonny has been a great advocate when dealing not only with breaches, but also on reporting requirements with regulators and strategic thinking and improvements to enhance existing approaches and to reach best practice. We trust Jonny’s advice at every stage of the regulatory reporting journey.’
‘Cory McHattan is also a very good regulatory partner with deep experience and a commercial approach.’
Key clients
Société Générale
AxiCorp Financial Services
Till Payments Solutions Pty Ltd
Worldpay (Worldpay (UK) Limited, Worldpay Limited, Worldpay AP Ltd and Worldpay Pty Ltd)
J.P. Morgan
National Australia Bank
Commonwealth Bank of Australia
Westpac
Credit Agricole Corporate and Investment Bank
UBS
Credit Suisse
Pershing Securities
Goldman Sachs
ANZ
Allianz
Work highlights
- Advised Societe Generale in relation to all aspects of its response to breaches of Australia’s client money rules, which culminated in an investigation and enforcement action against its Australian subsidiary, Societe Generale Securities Australia Pty Ltd (SGSAPL).
- Advising AxiCorp in relation to emerging regulatory issues for providers of contracts for difference and margin foreign exchange contracts.
- Provided the Australian regulatory advice required by JPM for the setup and structuring of its proposed e-wallet products in Australia.
Australia > Real estate Tier 2
With its headquarters in Sydney, Ashurst’s team expanded with the recruitment of Tim Mathers and Arthur Chong from DLA Piper in May 2020 and May 2021, respectively. Its work is extremely varied, encompassing real estate acquisitions and divestments, developments, financing arrangements and investments across various sectors, including healthcare, logistics and education. Pauline Tan , who leads the team from Sydney, stands out for handling a high volume of major real estate transactions in which she advises major property developers and investment funds. Fellow Sydney partner John Stawyskyi is also a core remember of the team, known for his dual experience in major transactions and project development. In Melbourne, Jason Cornwall-Jones is a highly active real estate partner.Practice head(s):
Pauline Tan
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Technically excellent, highly responsive, commercial and very easy to deal with. Ashurst’s property team is a key partner in my organisation’s retail strategy, particularly in relation to commercial leasing. I couldn’t recommend them highly enough.’
‘Vicki Aron – nothing is ever too difficult or too much trouble for Vicki. She always provides sound, sensible and timely advice. I trust her judgment absolutely and couldn’t recommend her highly enough.’
‘Ashurst provides exceptional service. Their Real Estate partner based in Melbourne, Australia, Arthur Chong is an excellent lawyer who takes pain to understand the client and is service-oriented. Arthur provides good value for money, ensures a quick turnaround time and offers pragmatic commercial legal advice and at reasonable rates.’
Key clients
Woolworths
Crown
PGGM
Greaton
Box Hill Institute
Aventus
Destination Brisbane Consortium
NorthWest Healthcare
Queensland Government
Commonwealth Government
Work highlights
- Advising on PGGM’s investment into the EG Australian Core Enhanced Fund (being a real estate fund) to acquire an approximate 41% interest.
- Advising Woolworths on their agreements with Qube for the $1.2bn development of dual distribution centres at Moorebank Logistics Park, Sydney.
- Advising on the sale of a 24.5 hectare greenfield site in Mernda, as well as the development and leaseback of that site.
Australia > White-collar crime Tier 2
The corporate crime practice at Ashurst takes a multidisciplinary approach, working across its dispute resolution, competition, employment and financial regulatory departments to provide solutions for financial institutions, multinationals, government bodies and senior executives involved in high-profile investigations and prosecutions. Led by white-collar crime authority Rani John in Sydney, the team’s client roster includes CPH Crown, Freedom Foods Group and TerraCom Limited and also spans the energy, financial services, mining and construction sectors. The group assists with a wide range of issues, from public inquiries and ASIC matters to cartel claims, commercial disputes and internal assessments. The team also includes enforcement expert Ian Bolster in Sydney and anti-corruption and bribery specialist James Clarke in Melbourne, and was bolstered by the mid-2021 arrival of Nicholas Mavrakis from Clayton Utz.Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The white collar crime team at Ashurst has deep understandings of corporate regulators and how to approach breaches and material reporting matters. We trust the Ashurst team implicitly.’
Key clients
CPH Crown Pty Limited
Freedom Foods Group Limited
Societe Generale Securities Australia Pty Ltd
TerraCom Limited
Alkaloids of Australia Pty Ltd
Work highlights
- Representing CPH Crown in the high-profile Inquiry initiated by the Independent Liquor and Gaming Authority in August 2019.
- Acting for Societe Generale in criminal proceedings commenced by the Commonwealth Department of Prosecutions alleging breaches of the notoriously complex “client money rules” in the Corporations Act.
- Assisting the Board of Freedom Foods Group with an investigation into substantial accounting irregularities connected with the treatment of obsolete inventory, aged debtors and recognition of revenue.
Australia > Insurance Tier 4
The experienced group at Ashurst acts for national and international insurers, brokers, corporate policyholders, and government agencies, advising on a broad spectrum of issues. They include IPOs, portfolio transfers, reinsurance, captive insurance arrangements, D&O claims, and warranty and indemnity policies. Led by Rehana Box in Sydney, the group’s client portfolio ranges from the Commonwealth Department of Defence and Westpac to ANZ Bank and Swiss Re.Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Wen-Ts’ai Lim; Con Tzerefos; Silvana Wood; Hazel Brasington
Testimonials
‘Ashurst’s team has a thorough knowledge of the shipbuilding insurance market.’
‘A very dedicated team that provides the necessary advice on shipbuilding insurance decisions that could help our organization save millions of dollars in the future.’
‘They are technically excellent.’
‘Rehana Box has unique experience acting for Commonwealth Government Agencies.’
Key clients
Swiss Re
Prudential Financial US
Willis Towers Watson
ASIC, APRA
ANZ Bank
Commonwealth Department of Defence
Deutsche Bank
Westpac
Samsung Australia
Western Sydney Airport
Work highlights
- Advised on the completion of the share sale and portfolio transfer under Part 9 of the Life Insurance Act 1995 between AIA and Commonwealth Bank’s life insurance businesses in Australia (CommInsureLife).
- Advised on the completion of its acquisition of AMP Life from AMP Limited for a total consideration of A$3bn (including a A$500m (20%) equity interest retained by AMP Limited).
- Advised Toll on a very complex separation of a portfolio of risks under its self-insurance workers compensation licences following the sale of Toll’s Global Express business to Australian private equity fund manager Allegro Funds.
Australia > Transport: shipping
The Ashurst shipping team in Melbourne advises shipowners and marine insurers on a comprehensive range of disputes and project matters involving commercial and maritime law.
Ashurst > Firm Profile
Ashurst is a leading global law firm advising the world’s largest companies, financial institutions and governments. We operate from 26 offices across 16 countries advising across a broad range of industry sectors, including digital economy, energy and resources, funds and banks, infrastructure, and real estate. With a focus on quality, collaboration and a progressive culture we deliver a distinctive service to our clients that sets us apart from other law firms.
Ashurst is one of the largest firms in Australia and acts on the market’s leading transactions, projects and disputes. The firm combines extensive business experience with deep knowledge of Australia’s major industry sectors, developed over its history of more than 175 years in this market. Clients include major Australian corporations, financial institutions, federal and state governments, and international companies investing and undertaking business in Australia. Ashurst’s representation of nearly two thirds of ASX100 companies and more than 80% of Australian companies in the Forbes Global 2000 demonstrates the trust placed in the firm by today’s most influential organisations.
Main Contacts
Department | Name | Telephone | |
---|---|---|---|
Global Managing Partner | Paul Jenkins | +61 2 9258 6000 | |
Office Managing Partner, Sydney | Anita Cade | +61 2 9258 6000 | |
Office Managing Partner, Brisbane | Gabrielle Forbes | +61 7 3259 7000 | |
Office Managing Partner, Perth | Richard Guit | +61 8 9366 8000 | |
Office Managing Partner, Melbourne | Ross McClymont | +61 3 9679 3000 | |
Office Managing Partner, Canberra | Paul Vane-Tempest | +61 2 6234 4000 |
Staff Figures
Partners : 150 Lawyers : 500Ashurst > Firm Profile
Ashurst is a leading global law firm advising the world’s largest companies, financial institutions and governments. We operate from 26 offices across 16 countries advising across a broad range of industry sectors, including digital economy, energy and resources, funds and banks, infrastructure, and real estate. With a focus on quality, collaboration and a progressive culture we deliver a distinctive service to our clients that sets us apart from other law firms.
Ashurst is one of the largest firms in Australia and acts on the market’s leading transactions, projects and disputes. The firm combines extensive business experience with deep knowledge of Australia’s major industry sectors, developed over its history of more than 175 years in this market. Clients include major Australian corporations, financial institutions, federal and state governments, and international companies investing and undertaking business in Australia. Ashurst’s representation of nearly two thirds of ASX100 companies and more than 80% of Australian companies in the Forbes Global 2000 demonstrates the trust placed in the firm by today’s most influential organisations.
Staff Figures
Partners : 150 Lawyers : 500Ashurst > Firm Profile
Ashurst is a leading global law firm advising the world’s largest companies, financial institutions and governments. We operate from 26 offices across 16 countries advising across a broad range of industry sectors, including digital economy, energy and resources, funds and banks, infrastructure, and real estate. With a focus on quality, collaboration and a progressive culture we deliver a distinctive service to our clients that sets us apart from other law firms.
Ashurst is one of the largest firms in Australia and acts on the market’s leading transactions, projects and disputes. The firm combines extensive business experience with deep knowledge of Australia’s major industry sectors, developed over its history of more than 175 years in this market. Clients include major Australian corporations, financial institutions, federal and state governments, and international companies investing and undertaking business in Australia. Ashurst’s representation of nearly two thirds of ASX100 companies and more than 80% of Australian companies in the Forbes Global 2000 demonstrates the trust placed in the firm by today’s most influential organisations.
Staff Figures
Partners : 150 Lawyers : 500Ashurst > Firm Profile
Ashurst is a leading global law firm advising the world’s largest companies, financial institutions and governments. We operate from 26 offices across 16 countries advising across a broad range of industry sectors, including digital economy, energy and resources, funds and banks, infrastructure, and real estate. With a focus on quality, collaboration and a progressive culture we deliver a distinctive service to our clients that sets us apart from other law firms.
Ashurst is one of the largest firms in Australia and acts on the market’s leading transactions, projects and disputes. The firm combines extensive business experience with deep knowledge of Australia’s major industry sectors, developed over its history of more than 175 years in this market. Clients include major Australian corporations, financial institutions, federal and state governments, and international companies investing and undertaking business in Australia. Ashurst’s representation of nearly two thirds of ASX100 companies and more than 80% of Australian companies in the Forbes Global 2000 demonstrates the trust placed in the firm by today’s most influential organisations.
Staff Figures
Partners : 150 Lawyers : 500Ashurst > Firm Profile
Ashurst is a leading global law firm advising the world’s largest companies, financial institutions and governments. We operate from 26 offices across 16 countries advising across a broad range of industry sectors, including digital economy, energy and resources, funds and banks, infrastructure, and real estate. With a focus on quality, collaboration and a progressive culture we deliver a distinctive service to our clients that sets us apart from other law firms.
Ashurst is one of the largest firms in Australia and acts on the market’s leading transactions, projects and disputes. The firm combines extensive business experience with deep knowledge of Australia’s major industry sectors, developed over its history of more than 175 years in this market. Clients include major Australian corporations, financial institutions, federal and state governments, and international companies investing and undertaking business in Australia. Ashurst’s representation of nearly two thirds of ASX100 companies and more than 80% of Australian companies in the Forbes Global 2000 demonstrates the trust placed in the firm by today’s most influential organisations.
Staff Figures
Partners : 150 Lawyers : 500Ashurst > Firm Profile
Ashurst is a leading global law firm advising local and global corporates, financial institutions and governments on their most complex transactions, disputes and projects. Founded almost 200 years ago, the firm today has more than 3,600 people, including some 450 partners, working across 28 offices in 16 countries, offering the reach and insight of a global network, combined with the knowledge and understanding of local markets. The firm brings together lawyers of the highest calibre with the technical knowledge, industry experience and regional know-how to provide the incisive advice clients need.
Ashurst’s vision is to be the most progressive global law firm, and it is committed to taking a fresh perspective, to deliver practical, commercial solutions to the challenges faced by clients in today’s rapidly changing business landscape.
Main areas of practice
Corporate: With its extensive network of global corporate partners, Ashurst is well-resourced in major commercial centres to advise on public and private M&A, private equity, joint ventures, equity capital markets, reorganisations, governance and regulatory issues.
Finance, funds and restructuring: Ashurst has a premier global finance team, based in all the major financial centres around the world, with deep product expertise and extensive multi-jurisdictional experience. Its global capacity and technical capability covers global loans, global markets, finance regulatory, restructuring & special situations, investment funds and high yield.
Projects and infrastructure: The global team has unmatched depth and operates across the energy, resources, transport and infrastructure sectors, advising the full range of market participants, including lenders, governments and sponsors on innovative and high profile matters.
Strategic advisory: The market leading specialist advisory teams are focused on delivering strategic innovative solutions to its clients’ most complex business critical challenges. They have leading expertise in employment, competition, intellectual property, international arbitration, investigations, tax and disputes.
Ashurst advance: Ashurst delivers client-facing innovation through Ashurst Advance, its “NewLaw” platform comprising cutting edge technology, process experts, and high quality cost effective resources in a single dynamically managed package which is fully integrated with its legal subject matter experts.
Industry focus
Banks and private capital: Ashurst supports the business and transactional activities of its domestic and global bank and private capital clients in an environment of increased regulatory change and commercial pressure.
Digital economy: The firm’s digital economy group adopts a tailored approach to the digitalisation of particular industries, with a key focus on fintech, infratech, proptech and TMT. The team advise on all aspects of work in the industry, including strategic commercial arrangements, M&A, IPOs, financing, joint ventures, outsourcing, disputes, exploitation of IP, tax and other key commercial activities.
Energy and resources: The firm’s specialists provide an end-to-end advisory service covering the full energy and resources value chains, including their various sub sectors, working on high profile projects and transactions globally which will shape the industry for decades to come. This experience spans renewables, energy from waste, oil & gas, mining & metals, decarbonisation technologies (e.g. energy storage, hydrogen, smart meters), conventional power and nuclear.
Infrastructure: Ashurst work as key advisers on iconic infrastructure projects across the transport, social infrastructure, energy and resources and telecommunications sectors for both public and private sector clients. Its in-depth knowledge of the industry and its history of working with governments, sponsors and financiers means it has a comprehensive and balanced view, and understands how projects work from all perspectives.
Real estate: The team advises on all aspects of real estate activity including high-profile acquisitions and divestments, asset management, large-scale development schemes, real estate finance, funds, joint ventures, construction, planning, environment and tax advice. Its one-stop-shop offering allows it to work with its clients on landmark, first of a kind deals across the entire market and the many sectors within it.
Staff Figures
Partners : 169 Lawyers : 645Languages
English- Banking and finance
- Competition and trade
- Construction
- Dispute resolution: arbitration
- Dispute resolution: class actions
- Dispute resolution: litigation
- Energy (transactions and regulatory)
- Environment and planning
- Intellectual property
- IT and telecoms
- Labour and employment: workplace health and safety (WHS)
- Labour and employment
- Media and entertainment
- Native title
- Natural resources (transactions and regulatory)
- Project development
- Project finance
- Restructuring and insolvency
- Tax