Next Generation Partners

Leading Associates

Firms To Watch: White-collar crime

Hamilton Locke's white-collar crime offering sits within the litigation practice and is jointly led by Tim Grave and Brit Ibanez, acting as a key port of call for individuals facing complex criminal and regulatory matters.

White-collar crime in Australia

Allens

Allens’s white-collar crime team is a market leader, advising on high-stakes investigations, regulatory enforcement, and corporate compliance risk. Chris Kerrigan leads internal investigations and voluntary regulator disclosures, while James Campbell guides clients through complex enforcement actions, and Jaime McKenzie in Melbourne is renowned for his regulatory expertise. Rachel Nicolson focuses on bribery and corruption compliance and litigation, with Alexandra Mason handling large-scale financial services disputes. Another key name to note, Peter Haig is recognised for his expertise in anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing.

Praxisleiter:

Chris Kerrigan; James Campbell; Jaime McKenzie


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Rachel Nicolson; Alexandra Mason; Andrew Wilcock; Peter Haig


Referenzen

‚This team seamlessly combines sophisticated legal expertise with commercial acumen, offering advice that considers both legal risks and business realities.‘

‚They are responsive, pragmatic, and collaborative, consistently tailoring their approach to client objectives.‘

‚The Allens team is approachable, great communicators, and build trusted relationships, ensuring advice is practical and aligned with business goals.‘

Kernmandanten

Macquarie Bank Ltd


Snow Mountain Engineering Company


Star Entertainment Group Ltd and its subsidiaries


PricewaterhouseCoopers


AustralianSuper


Entain Group Pty Ltd


bet365 Australia


Super Retail Group


ResMed


Australia and New Zealand Banking Group Limited


Westpac


Active Super


Macquarie Group Limited


Macquarie Investment Management Limited


Coles


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  • Advising Star Sydney and Star Queensland and its subsidiaries on civil penalty proceedings commenced by AUSTRAC in the Federal Court.
  • Advising Coles in a Federal Court proceedings on its ‚Down Down‘ programme.
  • Advising ANZ on ASIC’s ongoing investigation into the reporting of secondary market bond turnover data to the Australian Office of Financial Management.

Ashurst

Ashurst’s white-collar crime team boasts expertise in advising on regulatory and enforcement matters for multinational companies, financial institutions, executives, and government bodies across sectors such as energy, resources, mining, construction, financial services, pharmaceuticals, and telecoms. The practice is jointly led by Rani John, co-head of firm’s global corporate crime practice with extensive experience in bribery, ASIC investigations, insider trading, and directors’ duties breaches; Ian Bolster, an expert in corporate crime and civil fraud; and Stephen Woodbury, who oversees employment-related white-collar matters. Nicholas Mavrakis is also recommended for class actions, cartel disputes, and securities work.

Praxisleiter:

Rani John; Ian Bolster; Stephen Woodbury


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Nicholas Mavrakis


Referenzen

‘Ashurst’s white collar crime practice, as exemplified by Rani John, reflects a strong commitment to understanding and anticipating regulatory interest in a range of sectors and institutions. This makes Ashurst very adept and efficient in assisting clients – when institutions or individuals facing investigation or criminal charges.’

‘Ashurst partner Rani John provides excellent and strategic advice to entities and individuals confronted with regulatory investigation, including with a threat of criminal proceedings. She has decades of experience in the area and an understanding of a range of regulators, their investigative techniques and priorities from time to time. ’

‚Rani John is highly intelligent and engaged, across all aspects of a matter but still able to see the big picture.

Kernmandanten

Noumi Limited


Societe Generale Securities Australia Pty Ltd


HSBC Bank Australia


Alkaloids of Australia Pty Ltd


Rio Tinto Limited


PricewaterhouseCoopers


Westpac Banking Corporation


White Oak


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Corrs Chambers Westgarth

Praised for it’s ‘top-tier technical capability’, the offering at Corrs Chambers Westgarth is recognised for handling complex regulatory and enforcement matters, including fraud, anti-bribery and corruption, ASIC investigations, and public inquiries. Abigail Gill spearheads the practice, advising on corporate governance, financial and economic crime, ESG, and competition matters. Craig Phillips is highly regarded for defending clients in regulatory investigations, while Anna Ross brings specialist expertise in public law and high-profile inquiry work.

Praxisleiter:

Abigail Gill


 


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Craig Phillips; Anna Ross; Simon Johson


Referenzen

‚Corrs has a strong Investigation and White-Collar Crime practice.‘

‚Anna Ross combines deep technical expertise with a calm, thoughtful presence, bringing clarity and confidence in complex, high-pressure situations. She anticipates challenges and guides decision-making with precision and care.‘

‚What makes this practice unique is its ability to combine technical excellence in corporate investigations with a deep understanding of organisational dynamics and stakeholder sensitivities. The team navigates high-stakes, reputationally sensitive matters with rigour, discretion, and a genuinely strategic approach.‘

Kernmandanten

NSW Police


Victoria Racing Club


Beam Mobility


Gold Corporation


ME Bank


National Bank Australia


Iberdrola


Victorian Government


Coles


Highlight-Mandate


  • Representing Beam Mobility Holdings Pte Ltd in relation to investigations arising from media reporting that Beam had breached agreements to supply e-scooters and e-bikes to local government clients in Australia and New Zealand.
  • Advised Gold Corporation, trading as The Perth Mint, in relation to the Select Committee on The Perth Mint and Commonwealth regulatory compliance.
  • Acted for the NSWPF in its response to the Special|Commission of Inquiry into LGBTIQ hate crimes.

Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer LLP

Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer LLP delivers comprehensive white-collar and corporate crime advice, spanning fraud, cyber, cartel matters, and modern slavery. The practice is jointly led by Leon Chung, a seasoned commercial litigator, and Jacqueline Wootton, a specialist in breaches of the Corporations Act. The team also includes Andrew Eastwood, who handles anti-bribery and regulatory proceedings; Elizabeth Macknay, who is skilled in advising mining and resources clients on complex disputes; and Christine Wong, an expert in internal and regulatory investigations and whistleblower law. The group is widely recognised for its expertise in navigating high-stakes, complex matters across a variety of industries.

Praxisleiter:

Leon Chung; Jacqueline Wootton


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Andrew Eastwood; Elizabeth Macknay; Christine Wong


Kernmandanten

AWP Australia Pty Ltd


 


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Clayton Utz

Clayton Utz’s white-collar crime team handles the full spectrum of corporate investigations, from fraud and bribery to corruption and cross-border anti-bribery matters. Tobin Meagher co-leads the practice, frequently managing complex regulatory probes into secret commissions, conspiracy, and money laundering. David Benson, who leads from Perth and Darwin, is a key port of call to assist international clients with navigating Australian and global compliance challenges and conducting internal corporate investigations. Ananya Roy is also recommended.

Praxisleiter:

Tobin Meagher; David Benson


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Ananya Roy


Referenzen

‚Tobin Meagher is first-rate. He is technically excellent, commercially astute, and a smart tactician.‘

‚Ananya Roy and Tobin Meagher are excellent lawyers, able to process large amounts of material quickly, identify risks, and present clear options to clients.‘

‚Tobin Meagher and Ananya Roy are a pleasure to engage with. They are responsive, collaborative, and receptive to client concerns, balancing practical challenges with strategic insight.‘

Kernmandanten

Sheahan Lock Partners


Creative Promotions Pty Ltd


Westpac Banking Corporation


Goodman Fielder Group


ProX Pty Limited


 


Highlight-Mandate


  • Advised Sheahan Lock Partners on Federal Court proceedings to recover losses from ‘back-to-back’ loan schemes by the Binetter family, part of the ATO’s Project Wickenby offshore tax evasion investigation.
  • Represented Creative Promotions in Federal Court proceedings against former employee Di Wu and his wife, Hong Shao, alleging a $3.4m fraud over ten years; matters included freezing orders and proprietary relief to maximise asset recovery, highlighting the risks of remote-work-related scams for small businesses.
  • Represented Westpac in civil penalty proceedings initiated by ASIC over alleged failures to respond timely to online financial hardship requests.

Norton Rose Fulbright

Norton Rose Fulbright’s white-collar crime team operates within the firm's business ethics and anti-corruption group, advising domestic and international clients on financial crime, anti-bribery and corruption, and regulatory investigations. The practice is led by Melbourne-based Abigail McGregor, who is noted for her work on corruption inquiries and risk management, and Sydney’s Scott Atkins, who regularly handles anti-money laundering and internal investigations. Lucinda McCann adds further depth from her experience at APRA, while the arrival of Lici Inge from the Bank of England in 2024 has strengthened the team’s bench.

Praxisleiter:

Abigail McGregor; Scott Atkins


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Lucinda McCann; Lici Inge; Hoory Yeldizian; Jeremy Moller


Referenzen

‘Norton Rose Fulbright is a leader in the white-collar crime and financial crime space. Their representatives are always on top of the latest developments and very engaged with the industry. They are willing to share their expertise and are a force for change in the sector.’

‘The NRF team’s strengths lie in their strategic approach to the multi-faceted aspects of official investigations, including discovery of documents, early briefing of counsel, use of Freedom of Information applications, preparation for VCAT challenges, managing interactions with indemnity insurers, and addressing events impacting client health.’

‘Exceptional client focus is demonstrated by both partners and senior associates, ensuring that the client’s views are fully considered in strategy formulation and that they are thoroughly prepared for formal interviews and written submissions.’

Kernmandanten

Australian Securities and Investment Commission


 


Highlight-Mandate


  • Acting for ASIC in its proceeding against 11 former directors and officers of The Star Entertainment Group Limited for breaches of their duties under s180 of the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth).
  • Acting for ASIC and a number of its personnel in proceedings issued against them by Clive Palmer relating to allegations of misfeasance in public office by ASIC personnel, breaches of Mr Palmer’s human rights, and attempts to have ASIC investigation transcripts declared inadmissible.
  • Acting for ASIC in its proceeding against 11 former directors and officers of The Star Entertainment Group Limited for breaches of their duties under s180 of the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth).

Arnold Bloch Leibler

Arnold Bloch Leibler’s white-collar crime team advises on the full range of corporate regulatory matters, including investigations and enforcement actions relating to corruption, foreign bribery, insider trading, and cartel conduct. The team represents senior executives, directors, politicians, and diplomats, and assists clients with navigating inquiries from ASIC, ACCC, ATO, AFP, and Royal Commissions. At the helm of the group, Leon Zwier leads a practice supporting administrators, secured lenders, and distressed corporate groups, combining regulatory acumen with strategic guidance in high-stakes situations.

Praxisleiter:

Leon Zwier


Kernmandanten

Former non-executive directors of The Star Entertainment Group Limited


Keystone Asset Management


David Savage, Former Chief Executive Officer of Leighton Holdings


Phoslock Environmental Technologies Ltd


St Basil’s Home for the Aged


Heritage Care Pty Ltd


Kirant Regional Media Investments


Emmanual Roussakis & Aussie Skips


Peter Dykes, former director of Capital Mining Ltd


TerraCom Limited


Highlight-Mandate


  • Acting for six former non-executive directors of The Star Entertainment Group Limited in civil penalty proceedings commenced by ASIC.
  • Acted for investment firm Keystone Asset Management in a significant regulatory action brought by ASIC in the Federal Court.
  • Acting for the former COO of Leighton Holdings in defending criminal charges relating to his alleged role in the international Unaoil scandal, which the Australian Federal Police allege involved bribery of senior officials in oil-producing nations to secure lucrative contracts.

Baker McKenzie

Baker McKenzie’s white-collar crime team handles corporate investigations, bribery, compliance, data privacy, AML, and ESG matters. Georgie Farrant heads up the practice, offering strategic counsel on litigation and compliance across Australia and the UK. Alex Wolff is noted for his expertise in corporate investigations, white-collar crime, and competition and consumer law disputes, while Helen Joyce focuses on regulatory enforcement and complex white-collar crime litigation, supporting clients through high-stakes matters.

Praxisleiter:

Georgie Farrant


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Alex Wolff; Helen Joyce


Referenzen

‚In addition to their considerable experience in white-collar crime matters, the B&M team has particular strength in assembling excellent teams, strategic thinking, an excellent work ethic, and a client-focused approach.‘

‚The firm has successfully represented a number of high-wealth clients, demonstrating a strong understanding of the unique requirements and challenges in this area of practice, which involves an intersection of commercial and regulatory or criminal law.‘

‚They are highly effective at pulling together a well-resourced and informed team to deliver results.‘

Kernmandanten

Vaughan Bowen


ALS limited


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Dentons

Dentons combines regulatory and compliance expertise with transactional know-how, advising clients across both the public and private sectors. The team is led by Ben Allen in Sydney, a specialist in anti-bribery and corruption matters. Harriet McCormick contributes significant expertise through her work with both government and private sector clients on complex commercial, regulatory, and dispute resolution matters. Yechiel Belfer, who joined the firm in 2024, further broadens the practice with his focus on licensing, anti-money laundering, payment systems, and privacy compliance.

Praxisleiter:

Ben Allen


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Yechiel Belfer; Harriet McCormick


Referenzen

‘A great team to work with. Responsive and very professional.‘

Kernmandanten

Avis Budget Group


Watches of Switzerland


Rapid Response Revival


Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce


State Bank of India


Gate.io


Bridgit


World Mobile Token (BVI) Ltd


Fifth Third Bank


Bank of Hope


Wisr


Releaseit


Highlight-Mandate


  • Advising Avis Budget Group on their global privacy and related cyber-security matters, which included advising on data breach response plans, regulatory responses and policies, and digital identity verifications and cybersecurity implications.
  • Advised Watches of Switzerland on anti-money laundering laws and implications for privacy/cyber security arising from customer relationship management and database management strategies.
  • Advised Mortgage House regarding a show cause notice from AUSTRAC in relation to concerns AUSTRAC had about Mortgage House’s AML/CTF Programme.

DLA Piper

DLA Piper’s white-collar crime team advises clients on compliance and risk management at every stage of the business cycle. The practice is led from Brisbane by Natalie Caton, who focuses on corporate reputation and cross-border risk, particularly in emerging markets. John Fogarty adds extensive litigation experience, regularly acting in high-value commercial disputes.

Praxisleiter:

Natalie Caton


Weitere Kernanwälte:

John Fogarty


Referenzen

‘The team is incredibly responsive and provides timely and practical advice.’

‘The team we deal with are highly knowledgeable individuals. They provide straightforward, practical advice, often within very tight timeframes.‘

Kernmandanten

Australian Securities & Investments Commission


Independent Broad-based Anti-Corruption Commission


Queensland University of Technology


Highlight-Mandate


  • Acted for Australian Securities & Investments Commission in successful civil penalty proceedings against ‚payday lenders‘ BSF Solutions, Cigno Australia and their respective directors, successfully alleging that the businesses entered into credit contracts, and that the directors were involved in those contraventions.
  • Advised on the Formal Review into Victorian Government Bodies’ Engagement with Construction Companies and Construction Unions, which identified significant issues and made recommendations, which were all accepted, to address how the powers of Victorian Government bodies can be strengthened to better respond to allegations of criminal and other unlawful conduct.
  • Acted for the Independent Broad-based Anti-corruption Commission in proceedings and provided ongoing advice on the Public Interest Disclosures Act 2012 (Vic) and issues surrounding disclosure.

Gilbert + Tobin

Gilbert + Tobin is active across all aspects of white-collar crime and corporate investigations, representing clients in matters involving ASIC, AUSTRAC, ACCC, OAIC, and the ATO. The group advises on allegations of fraud, insider trading, money laundering, market manipulation, and breaches of directors’ duties. Richard Harris steers the practice with expertise in complex disputes and contentious regulatory issues, while Peter Munro brings extensive experience in court proceedings, enforcement actions, and Royal Commissions. The team was further bolstered by the promotion of Alexandra Whitby to partner.

Praxisleiter:

Richard Harris


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Peter Munro; Alexandra Whitby


Kernmandanten

Mineral Resources


Nuix


Westpac Banking Corporation


PwC Australia


Credit Suisse


Goldman Sachs


Macquarie Bank


Downer EDI


Deloitte


SkyCity Adelaide


Asahi


Insignia Financial


Commonwealth Bank of Australia


Virgin Australia


Orica


ESSSuper


Rio Tinto


Highlight-Mandate


  • Acting for Former directors of Star Entertainment in a landmark directors’ duties case commenced by ASIC in the Federal Court.
  • Acting for SkyCity Adelaide in relation to major AUSTRAC enforcement proceedings alleging breaches of the anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing laws relating to the provision of designated services by SkyCity Adelaide to its customers.
  • Acting for Nuix in relation to a significant 8-week Federal Court trial against ASIC in relation toalleged market disclosure contraventions and concerning the company’s revenue forecast.

Johnson Winter Slattery

Johnson Winter Slattery’s white-collar crime team is highly regarded for its defence expertise, conducting internal investigations and managing both domestic and cross-border regulatory inquiries and prosecutions. The group is co-led by Robert Johnston, recognised for his wide-ranging regulatory practice and prominence in class actions and insurance, and Robert Wyld, who specialises in anti-bribery, anti-corruption, and complex commercial and criminal disputes.

Praxisleiter:

Robert Johnston; Robert Wyld


Referenzen

‘An outstanding firm with leading practitioners and household names. Both Robert Wyld and Robert Johnston are truly exceptional and a great pleasure to know and work with.’

‚The JWS are extremely efficient and knowledgeable, and utilise the best technology and people to ensure excellent outcomes across the field.‘

‚Robert Wyld has exceptional legal skills and interpersonal client management skills.‘

Kernmandanten

International Bar Association


Obela Fresh Dips and Spreads Pty Ltd


Gladys Berejiklian


Australian Securities & Investments Commission


Anthony Dunlop, former director of Capital Mining Ltd


Ocean Jet Enterprises Limited


FMR Investments Pty Ltd


Highlight-Mandate


  • Advising the National Anti-Corruption Agency on public and private sector procedures surrounding IBA efforts to support Ukraine’s anti-corruption reform.
  • Acted for Obela in complex asset recovery following misappropriation of funds by Obela’s former CFO, including tracing real estate and other assets in Spain and South Africa, engaging local counsel for enforcement of Australian judgments, cross-border service, and personal bankruptcy proceedings, and preparing a prosecution brief for NSW Police.
  • Acted for the former NSW Premier and Treasurer Ms Berejiklian in judicial review proceedings before the NSW Court of Appeal, challenging ICAC’s June 2023 findings of serious corrupt conduct arising from Operation Keppel.

King & Wood Mallesons

King & Wood Mallesons offers comprehensive expertise across white-collar crime, advising on financial crime, compliance, internal and external investigations, and enforcement proceedings. The practice is led by Jasmine Forde, who is recognised for her focus on modern slavery, anti-bribery, and corruption compliance. Another noted practitioner is Moira Saville, a seasoned litigator with strong experience in regulatory inquiries.

Praxisleiter:

Jasmine Forde


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Moira Saville; Annamarie Rooding


Referenzen

‘Annamarie Rooding and her team are experts in the field. The delivery of advice, and the way forward, stands out against the rest. Being able to circulate the pathway forward to the appropriate audience is key, and we rarely need to adapt KWM advice. The team is very highly skilled.’

‘Annamarie Rooding is a high quality partner and a pleasure to deal with. She is available, accessible and delivery is excellent. I value her because of the excellent service but also pragmatic and practical approach. Great experience across a breadth of areas, I highly recommend her.’

Kernmandanten

Commonwealth Government


Highlight-Mandate


  • Acted for the Commonwealth Government as solicitors assisting in the 3-year Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide.
  • Advised international and domestic clients across diverse industries on the implications of modern slavery legislation in Australia and other key jurisdictions.

Quinn Emanuel Urquhart & Sullivan, LLP

Quinn Emanuel Urquhart & Sullivan, LLP is recognised for its strength in white-collar crime litigation, with managing partner Michelle Fox at the helm of the practice. Jason Gray stands out for his work defending clients before regulators, handling internal investigations, and shaping compliance frameworks. Beau Deleuil advises on significant domestic investigations, Andrew Corkhill focuses on ASIC-related matters, and Elan Sasson is noted for cases involving confidentiality and copyright breaches.

Praxisleiter:

Jason Gray; Michelle Fox; Beau Deleuil; Andrew Corkhill; Elan Sasson


Referenzen

‚Jason Gray provides us with advice with deep understanding of relevant laws and our business.‘

Kernmandanten

Paul Brett Wilson


McKinsey & Company, Inc.


David Foster


BrightAU


CHC Helicopter and Offshore Services Australasia


Paul McNabb


 


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