MinterEllison’s media and entertainment practice is a market leader, advising on defamation, content disputes, copyright, and licensing matters. Melbourne-based Peter Bartlett heads the team, focusing on publication risks and defending media clients in both domestic and international claims. Patrick Considine is a key media litigation and dispute resolution specialist. David Poulton retired in 2024.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Highly experienced and intelligent partners.’
‘Peter Bartlett is the elder statesman of this area, supported by great younger partners and lawyers. They inspire confidence when facing difficult times.’
‘Peter Bartlett - elder statesman who takes his role very seriously; Dean Levitan - new partner who is smart, diligent and client focussed; inspires confidence among our internal team.’
- 'This firm has a long history working in the media area with my firm, and therefore a deep background in the issues we face. It has litigated a number of large and complex cases successfully and has a thorough grounding in the law and precedent.'
- 'Dean Levitan is acute, provides clear, concise analysis and is available. Tess McGuire is brilliant in briefing and preparing witnesses. The team makes you feel like you are in safe hands.'
Key clients
- Nine Entertainment Co. (The Age, Sydney Morning Herald, Australian Financial Review)
- Australia and New Zealand Banking Group Limited
- Piece of Work Productions LLC
- Copyright Agency
- The New York Times Company
- Foxtel
- Crikey
- Al Jazeera
- John Pesutto
- Australian Broadcasting Company (ABC)
- Australian Securities and Investment Commission (ASIC)
- The International Bar Association Human Rights Institute
Work highlights
Acting for Nine Entertainment Co in defamation proceedings brought by Ben Roberts-Smith, one of Australia's most decorated war veterans, in relation to three articles published by Fairfax Media mastheads in 2018 that implicate him in serious misconduct amounting to murder, war crimes and domestic violence.
Representing John Pesutto, who is the Victorian Opposition Leader, in a defamation matter commenced by a fellow member of Parliament, Moira Deeming.
Representing Australia and New Zealand Banking Group Limited (ANZ) and its employees in Federal Court defamation proceeding initiated by Josiyas Mbuzi.
Lawyers
Hall of Fame
The lawyers at the very top of the profession, widely known and respected by peers and clients for their longstanding involvement in market-leading work.
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Patrick Considine
Practice head
Peter Bartlett
Other key lawyers
Patrick Considine; Dean Levitan; Tess McGuire