Mallesons Podcasts
Welcome to Mallesons' podcast channel. Here you can browse and listen to all our content - the latest cases, legal issues, market trends and insights from our practice groups, conversational deep dives with our people, our clients and our community partners. Enjoy!
Listening to Children, Strengthening Systems
Content warning: This episode contains discussions of child trauma and suicide.
Every year in Australia, hundreds of thousands of concerns are raised about children's safety. In this episode, host Clem Johnson sits down with Dr. Katrina Lines, CEO of Act for Kids, and Emma Costello, Partner at Mallesons, to explore how organisations and law firms can go beyond funding to drive real change for children and families. They discuss trauma-informed care, centring children's voices, early intervention, and what genuine community partnership looks like in practice.
Key drivers of the energy M&A market: Power Perspectives Episode 8
Hosts: Rod Smythe, Jonathan Grant and Lizzie Knight
Summary: In this episode, Mallesons partners Rod, Jonathan and Lizzie discuss the current state of the energy M&A market, including deal trends, activity drivers and the regulatory overlay.
Key topics discussed:
mid-market processes becoming exclusive much earlierthe sophisticated mechanisms being used to allocate risk between buyers and sellershow FIRB strategy is becoming a competitive differentiator in energy transactionswhere regulatory focus is intensifying — and practical approaches participants are taking to manage approval riskResponsible AI in practice with SEEK: AI Now Episode 3
What does it take to implement AI responsibly? In this episode of AI Now, host Bryony Evans is joined by Fernando Mourão, Head of Responsible AI at SEEK, alongside Mallesons partner Michael Swinson. Hear lessons from a leading organisation that has been building since 2019, including how to move beyond compliance-driven approaches and put people first in AI transformation.
Key topics
Moving beyond compliance (6:30)Setting the right pace for AI adoption (11:20)Don’t wait for regulation - focus on your AI systems (15:05)Guidance (including in Singapore and Australia) that can help (17:20)Inside SEE...Inside Australia’s East and West Coast Gas Markets: Power Perspectives Episode 7
In this episode of Power Perspectives, we discuss the evolving dynamics of Australia’s gas market across the east and west coasts. With gas playing a critical role in the energy transition—supporting renewables, ensuring system reliability, and underpinning export revenues—our panel explores key market developments, policy, pricing trends, and investment drivers shaping the sector.
Key topics:
East coast gas market: supply pressures and policy developments West coast gas market: balanced for now, tightening aheadNationally, Australia faces a tightening gas market toward 2030, requiring sustained investmentDomestic gas pricing, investment and project structuring trendsFS Reg Room Episode 7: Unpacking 'Efficiently, Honestly and Fairly’
The obligation to act efficiently, honestly and fairly is increasingly shaping ASIC enforcement strategy. In this episode, host Nathan Hodge is joined by dispute resolution partners Amanda Engels and Damian Lovell to discuss how recent cases are expanding the obligation and what this means for financial institutions.
Key topics discussed
How ASIC is using efficiently, honestly and fairly in enforcementGovernance and systems expectations from recent casesCyber risk and scam prevention obligationsApplication beyond traditional financial services conductThe intersection with other obligations such as trustee duties under the SIS ActPractical implications for financial institutionsManaging risks in the modern workplace (Part 2): AI Now Episode 2
AI Now is back with Part 2 on AI’s impact for the workforce, and this time we hear about the widespread use and risks of AI‑driven performance and monitoring tools, Australia’s first AI-specific workplace safety laws, and why governance - particularly at board level following the Star decision – is a live issue.
Employment law expert Cilla Robinson joins co-hosts Cheng Lim and Bryony Evans to talk about:
When AI performance tools cross the line - including where ‘people are effectively being managed by an algorithm’ - and where they can add genuine valueThe three things boards...Insurance Pocketbook 2026: Trends and market insights in coverage disputes
In this episode, Peter Yeldham and Travis Toemoe examine, at an aggregate level, recent insurance coverage decisions for the Insurance Pocketbook 2026. Their analysis reflects what the data reveals about insurance litigation trends and outcomes.
Key topics discussed:
Where insurance coverage disputes are being litigatedWho is winning those disputesWhich sectors and policies dominate the litigation landscapeManaging risks in the modern workplace (Part 1): AI Now Episode 2
We turn to one of the most live issues for organisations right now: AI and the workforce. Employment law expert Cilla Robinson joins AI Now co-hosts Cheng Lim and Bryony Evans to unpack what clients are dealing with right now.
Key topics discussed in this episode:
Why AI risk is often about work redesign, not mass job lossesHow algorithms are changing performance, monitoring and decision‑makingWhere employers are tripping up on consultation and oversightWhy humans still need to stay firmly in the loop.Offshore Wind in the Inland Sea: Power Perspectives Episode 6
Hosts: Rob Smythe and Vishal Ahuja
Summary: In this episode of Power Perspectives – ‘Offshore Wind in the Inland Sea’ - KWM partners Rod Smythe and Vishal Ahuja examine the proposed mega-scale Inland renewable energy zone in far western New South Wales and its potential role in the energy transition. They also discuss why Australia’s offshore wind ambitions are becoming less likely, facing rising costs and policy uncertainty.
Key Topics Discussed:
The outlook for offshore wind in AustraliaCost pressures affecting renewable projectsThe proposed mega renewable energy zone development in western...Navigating common interest privilege across the UK and Australia
Duration: 7.31
Hosts: Peter Yeldham, King & Wood Mallesons and James Breese, Stewarts Law
In this episode of the KWM Podcast, Disputes Partner Peter Yeldham is joined by James Breese, a Partner at Stewarts, for a comparative discussion on common interest privilege and how it operates across Australia and England.
Key topics discussed:
The difference between common interest privilege and joint privilegeWaiver of legal professional privilege Labelling correspondence “common interest privilege” (and relying on the label)Considering the benefits of disclosure against the possibility of later disputes with third...The rise of JD structures in renewable energy: Power Perspectives Episode 5
Duration: 10:14
Hosts: Josh Thorneycroft and Craig Rogers
Summary: In this episode of Power Perspectives, KWM Energy Partners Craig Rogers and Josh Thorneycroft discuss the drivers behind the shift were seeing in capital deployment in renewables and the increased use of capital partnering.
In this episode they discuss:
How these funding models create value for both sides for investors and developersDifferent joint development structures were seeing in the market and why we’re seeing themAvoiding the ugly path to disputes and deadlocksThe key sign of a successful part...Australia's AI Plan: AI Now Episode 1
AI developments are moving fast. In the first episode of our AI Now series, Cheng Lim and Bryony Evans break down Australia’s National AI Plan - what’s changing, what’s not and what it means for business.
Key topics discussed
The three pillars of the National AI Plan: infrastructure, sharing benefits and safetyNo new standalone AI laws - existing regulation still appliesWorkplace consultation and its impact on AI adoptionData centres, investment hurdles and practical challengesSteps for effective AI governance and privacy complianceWhere ‘sovereign’ AI fits in and what to watch nextPulse Check: Class Actions in Health Sector Alive and Well
King & Wood Mallesons’ annual Class Actions in Australia report tracks the latest data and trends in Australia’s evolving litigation landscape.
In this episode, Partners Suzy Madar and Peta Stevenson dive into a sector that has been a focal point or some of Australia’s most complex and high-profile class actions: health.
In this episode they discuss:
How technical, scientific expert evidence affects claims outcomesUS vs Australia - similar claims, different risks and rewardsMajor cases in 2025: Roundup and Monash IVFWhat’s next for health class actions?Listen now and read the full report The Review...
FS Reg Room Episode 6: Crypto investment offerings
Crypto is moving into a more structured regulatory environment across global markets. In this episode, host Nathan Hodge is joined by Urszula McCormack and Cindy Shek to discuss the fundamentals of digital assets, the rise of spot ETFs and other fund structures, and the maturing regulatory frameworks developing in Hong Kong, the US and Australia.
Key topics discussed
How crypto is defined and usedSpot ETFs, crypto funds and product innovationGlobal regulatory approachesAML reforms and ASIC guidanceConsiderations for managers seeking crypto exposureFS Reg Room Episode 5: Investment platforms
This episode examines the regulatory and governance developments shaping investment platforms, and the Shield and First Guardian failures. Partners Nathan Hodge and Stephen Jaggers discuss the evolution of IDPS and superannuation platforms, key structural differences, and the emerging regulatory expectations influencing how these products are designed, governed and monitored.
Key topics discussed
How platforms developed and why they remain adviser-drivenDifferences between IDPS and superannuation governance obligationsFallout from Shield and First Guardian and the focus on menu oversightDue diligence, conflicts and DDO considerationsGrowth of managed accounts and exposure to alternative assetsNew Exposures: The Evolution of Privacy Class Actions
King & Wood Mallesons’ annual Class Actions in Australia report charts the latest record-breaking trends in Australia’s evolving litigation landscape.
In this episode, Partners Michael Swinson and Peta Stevenson breakdown how privacy class actions are changing in Australia.
In this episode they discuss:
The rise of privacy class actionsHow the Privacy Act reforms are paving the way to new claimsSerious invasions of privacy stealing headlinesThe OAIC’s promised aggressive approachListen now and read the full report The Review: Class Actions in Australia 2024/2025 available here.
Partnering to Address Complex Mental Health
This episode dives into the intersection of business, law, community, and society, focusing on complex mental health in the workplace. Special guest Rachel Green brings her lived experience and leadership perspective as CEO of SANE Australia, one of the nation’s leading mental health advocacy organizations.
Key Topics Discussed:
Brickworks and Soul Patts: Underneath the ‘top-hat’
In this episode of the It’s Public podcast, Daniel Natale sits down with David Friedlander, Jennifer Cheung and Rob Kelly to discuss the landmark $14 billion Brickworks–Soul Patts merger - a deal that ended more than half a century of cross-ownership. The conversation explores how the parties found valuation common ground in a scrip-for-scrip transaction, and how capital markets stepped up to support the deal.
They discuss:
The history of the cross-shareholding and how it endured for more than five decades (despite criticism for limiting transparency and shareholder value)The 2025 merger itself and the innovative ‘top ha...What’s Driving Australian Business in 2025? KWM Directions Survey Results
Duration: 27 minutes
Presenters:
Meredith Paynter (Partner, Mergers and Acquisitions)Rhys Casey (Partner, Mergers and Acquisitions)Lizzie Knight (Partner, Mergers and AcquisitionsJason Watts (Partner, Mergers and Acquisitions)Overview:
The authors of the KWM Directions 2025 Report, Meredith Paynter, Rhys Casey, Lizzie Knight and Jason Watts, delve into the latest findings on what is ‘top of mind’ for Australian businesses. This episode is packed with insights on how Australian directors and senior business leaders are thinking about the adoption of AI, corporate culture and tackling red tape.
To read more...
Indonesia’s maturing public-private partnership framework
Duration: 12.41
Host: Sam Farrands, KWM Head of Projects
Guest: Serafina Muryanti, ABNR, Indonesia
Summary:
Public-private partnerships (PPPs) are fuelling Indonesia’s infrastructure growth across sectors including transport, telecommunications, water, healthcare and more.
KWM’s Head of Projects, Sam Farrands, speaks with Serafina Muryanti, Partner at leading Indonesian law firm ABNR, about the country’s evolving PPP landscape and the opportunities it presents for foreign investors.
Key topics:
The growing role of PPPs in Indon...Class Actions in Australia 2024/2025
King & Wood Mallesons’ annual Class Actions in Australia report has become a defining source of insight into Australia’s evolving litigation landscape.
In this episode, Partners Moira Saville and Peta Stevenson unpack the major findings from the 2024/25 Review, exploring the record numbers, landmark judgments and emerging risks shaping class action activity nationwide.
In this episode they discuss:
The story behind this year’s record filings and settlementsThe High Court’s role in redefining class closure powers and funding modelsThe growing reach of privacy and employment claimsWhat recent judgments mean for governance, disclosure and executive accountabi...Queensland's Energy Roadmap 2025: Power Perspectives Episode 4
Hosts: Tim Sumner, Adam Black
Duration: 18.25
Summary: In this episode of Power Perspectives, KWM Energy partners Tim Sumner and Adam Black delve into the recently released Queensland Energy Roadmap. They explore what this roadmap means for the Queensland energy market and the opportunities it presents for clients and stakeholders.
Key Topics Discussed:
Overview of the Queensland Energy Roadmap: Understanding the Plan's focus on affordability, reliability, and sustainability and the changes the 2025 Roadmap makes from the 2022 Queensland Energy and Jobs PlanEnergy...What do the 2035 climate targets mean for the energy sector: Power Perspectives Episode 3
In this episode of Power Perspectives, KWM’s Energy Partners Rod Smythe, Vishal Ahuja and Shirley Cheng unpack Australia’s newly proposed 2035 climate targets and what they mean for the energy sector.
Drawing on insights from a recent KWM Energy Insight Series event featuring Matt Kean, Chair of the Climate Change Authority, and Nevenka Codevelle, CEO of ASL, the discussion explores the practical challenges of achieving a 62–70% emissions reduction from 2005 levels and the scale of the transition required to meet those goals.
Key Topics Discussed
How Australi...Vietnam’s new personal data protection law
Duration: 22.29
Host: Katherine Ke, KWM Register Foreign Lawyer
Guest: Duong Thi Mai Huong, Frasers Law Company Partner, Vietnam
Summary:
Vietnam is changing how personal data is protected. The new law, effective from January 2026, will affect local and foreign businesses.
In the latest episode of KWM’s View from Asia, Katherine Ke and Duong Thi Mai Huong unpack the new rules and what they mean for anyone doing business in Vietnam. They discuss the scope of the law, what counts as consent, who...
Asia’s evolving investment landscape — and Australia’s place in it
Hosts: Nicola Yeomans (Mallesons Partner & Co-Head of Private Capital) and Will Heath (Mallesons Partner)
Duration: [16:38]
Summary:
Asian capital is increasingly shaping Australia’s biggest deals. In this episode of Mallesons' View from Asia, Nicola Yeomans and Will Heath share insights from the AFR Asia Summit — exploring inbound investment trends, key sectors and the regulatory landscape.
They discuss why Japanese, Singaporean and other Asian investors are active in Australia, the growing role of Singapore as a financial hub, and how intra-Asia investment is expanding. Regulatory developments and sector hots...
What Can Business Learn from Nature?
In this episode of the NEXT KWM Responsible Business Podcast, hosts Clem Johnson and Dan Creasey explore how businesses can lead meaningful, lasting change by learning from nature and embracing adaptive networks. Joined by special guests Sarah Downey (CEO, Shared Value Project Australia and New Zealand) and Leith Sharp (Director, Executive Education in Sustainability Leadership, Harvard University), the conversation delves into the intersection of business, law, community, and society.
Key topics discussed:
The power of adaptive networks and collective intelligence in driving organizational changeHow biomimicry and indigenous knowledge can inspire innovation and resilienceThe importance of authentic...Power Perspectives Episode 2: Dissecting the Nelson Review
Hosts: Rod Smythe, Shirley Cheng, Vishal Ahuja
Duration: 16.35
Summary:
In this episode of Power Perspectives, KWM’s Rod Smythe, Shirley Cheng, and Vishal Ahuja break down the Nelson Review, a major government-backed initiative set to drive investment in firmed renewables and storage on Australia’s East Coast.
The team explores the Review’s headline reforms and what they mean for investors, developers and energy sector stakeholders. They discuss how the proposed changes aim to boost market confidence, improve contract liquidity and facilitate greater participation from both tr...
AI In the workplace: Transforming businesses
Digital Future Summit Series Episode 8: AI in the Workplace
Presenters:
Sarah Clarke, KWMBran Black, Business Council of AustraliaBarbara Hyman, Sapia.aiEdward Santow, Human Technology InstituteLee Hicken, National AI CentreIn the final episode of KWM’s Digital Future Summit Series, legal, business and technology leaders consider the transformative impact of AI in the workplace. They discuss the tension between productivity gains and job security, acknowledging the need for transparency and engagement for successful AI adoption. The conversation also explores workforce transformation, skills demand, and the future of AI governance.
Key Points:
...Navigating the future: Board strategies for cyber security and AI innovation
Digital Future Summit Series Episode 7: Board strategies for cyber security and AI innovation
Presenters:
Cheng Lim, KWMAndy Penn, DirectorRichard Dammery, DirectorCatherine Brenner, DirectorA group of highly experienced business leaders discuss the intersection of cybersecurity and AI governance for Boards. They explore ways to manage risks, stay informed, and leverage AI innovation while ensuring organisational resilience.
Key Points:
Cybersecurity is a critical risk that must be prioritised on every organisation's risk register.Developing an inventory of digital assets is essential to protect against malicious cyber activity.Crisis management...Digital finance forecast: Key trends in crypto, payments and financial innovation
Digital Future Summit Series Episode 6: Trends in crypto, payments and fintech
Presenters:
Urszula McCormack, KWMJohn Ho, Standard Chartered BankShiau Sin Yen, Titan FundYvonne Tsui, Hong Kong Monetary AuthorityIn this episode of the Digital Future Summit Series, we explore the evolving landscape of digital finance in 2025. Our expert panel discusses the rapid advancements in crypto markets, stable coins, tokenisation, and regulatory frameworks across Asia and beyond. Join us for a deep dive into the key trends shaping the future of digital finance.
Key points:
The total crypto market...Regulatory perspectives: Let’s talk privately - inside ASIC’s approach to market regulation
Digital Future Summit Series Episode 5: ASIC Chair Joe Longo
Presenters:
Alex Elser, KWMDavid Friedlander, KWMJoe Longo, ASIC ChairIn this episode of the Digital Future Summit series, ASIC Chair Joe Longo discusses the corporate regulator’s discussion paper into private and public capital markets in Australia, considering the impact of AI, markets’ operation, and the role of superannuation money. Longo shares insights from ASIC's recent paper and outlines the commission's approach to enhancing transparency and data collection in private markets.
Key Points:
ASIC's recent discussion paper aims to resh...Regulatory perspectives: Privacy in flux
Digital Future Summit Series Episode 4: Privacy Commissioner Carly Kind
Presenters:
Michael Swinson, KWMBryony Evans, KWMAustralian Privacy Commissioner Carly KindAustralian Privacy Commissioner Carly Kind discusses developments in privacy law reforms, the implications of AI and emerging technologies on privacy, and the regulatory landscape for data protection in Australia. Commissioner Kind highlights key priorities for the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner, focusing on the importance of balancing privacy protections with the benefits of innovation in the digital economy.
Key points:
Passing of the first tranche of privacy law reforms and new statutory...Australia’s productivity challenge: Tech’s role in our future
Digital Future Summit Series Episode 3: Productivity Commission Chair Danielle Wood
Presenters:
Annabel Griffin, KWMJennifer Barron, KWMDanielle Wood, Productivity Commission ChairIn this episode of the Digital Future Summit Series, Chair of the Productivity Commission Danielle Wood explains her role and the productivity imperative Australia faces. The discussion covers the economic landscape, challenges and opportunities presented by AI and data, and the importance of regulatory reform in fostering a dynamic economy. Danielle details the Productivity Commission's current inquiries and outlines actionable recommendations to enhance competition, efficiency, and sustainable growth as Australia navigates its transition...
Regulatory perspectives: Balancing innovation and competition (ACCC)
Digital Future Summit Series Episode 2: the ACCC on Balancing Innovation and Competition
Presenters:
Caroline Coops, KWMPeta Stevenson, KWMGina Cass-Gottlieb, ACCC ChairIn episode 2 of the Digital Future Summit Series, Caroline Coops and Peta Stevenson are joined by Gina Cass-Gottlieb, the Chair of the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC), to discuss the findings and implications of the ACCC's Digital Platforms Inquiry. The conversation covers the balance between innovation and competition, the challenges of regulating fast-paced digital industries, and the critical role of consumer trust in fostering a thriving digital economy.
Key...
AI and the rise of great powers: A conversation with Jeffrey Ding
Digital Future Summit Series Episode 1: AI & Great Powers – In Conversation with Jeffrey Ding
Presenters:
Cheng Lim, KWMJeffrey Ding, AuthorIn the opening episode of KWM’s Digital Future Summit Series, Cheng Lim speaks with Jeffrey Ding, assistant professor of political science at George Washington University and author of the critically acclaimed book, Technology and the Rise of Great Powers. They explore the concept of General Purpose Technologies (GPTs), the dynamics of technology diffusion, and the implications for global competition, particularly between the US and China. This discussion sheds light on the essential role of A...
Loneliness and Connection in our Workplace and Community
In this episode, we’re joined by two fabulous guests:
Jon Owen, CEO and Pastor of Wayside Chapel, with over 20 years’ experience supporting those facing homelessness, addiction, and mental health challenges.Cilla Robinson, KWM Partner in the Employee Relations and Safety team, recognised as one of Australia’s best lawyers in Labor and Employment Law.Key topics explored in this episode:
The root causes of loneliness and social isolation in our communities and workplaces.The difference between loneliness and social isolation, and why both matter for mental health and productivity.The effects of remote work, digital connectio...FS Reg Room Episode 4 - Navigating the Future of Financial Services with Digital Advice
In Episode 4 of the FS Reg Room podcast, hosts Michelle Chen and Nathan Hodge dive deep into the world of digital advice, exploring its applications in the financial services industry. They discuss the evolving landscape of digital advice tools, the regulatory framework, and the future potential of generative AI in enhancing user experience. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in understanding how technology is reshaping financial advice.
Key Points Discussed:
Definition and practical applications of digital advice, including its differentiation from traditional advice.The role of digital advice in catering to the...It's Public Episode 2 - Merge Ahead: How will new ACCC merger rules and FIRB approvals work together?
In this second episode of the It's Public podcast, Antonella Pacitti, Jennifer Barron and Lizzie Knight discuss Australia's new mandatory merger notification regime, unpacking how the ACCC's major changes to competition approvals will impact dealmaking.
Conversation focuses on:
implications for cross-border deals which also require Foreign Investment Review Board (FIRB) approval. the increased regulatory risk and compliance challenges for deal completion, including how compatible Australia's markets are with "Hell or High Water" clauses requiring bidders to accept any regulatory conditions imposedimpacts for deal valuation in volatile markets the rise in national security-driven regulatory decision-making, especially in cr...What’s NEXT in Business & Human Rights
In episode 4 of KWM’s Responsible Business podcast NEXT, hosts Clem Johnson and Dan Creasey dive deep into the critical intersection of business and human rights, exploring how companies can transform human rights from a compliance checkbox to a strategic advantage.
Key Topics:
The Evolving Landscape of Business and Human RightsCurrent challenges in implementing human rights principlesGlobal trends and international standardsThe role of businesses in protecting human rightsPractical Implementation StrategiesMapping human rights risks across operations and supply chainsDeveloping robust human rights policiesCreating effective grievance mechanismsImportance of workforce educationLegislative and Policy ReformsPotential national Human Rights Act for Au...The Power of Pro Bono
In episode 3 of KWM’s Responsible Business podcast NEXT, hosts Clem Johnson and Dan Creasey dive deep into the world of pro bono legal services with guests Christina Carney from NAB and Elise Perry from KWM. The conversation explores the critical role of pro bono work in helping to bridge access to justice, highlighting how lawyers can create meaningful social impact by providing pro bono to individuals and organisations. Through personal stories and professional insights, the episode reveals the transformative potential of pro bono work, demonstrating how lawyers can be powerful allies in addressing systemic social challenges.
Key...
