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A LAW FIRM LIKE NO OTHER OVER THE PAST YEAR we’ve experienced strong growth. We continue to invest in our people, innovative technology and in our client relationships. Our clients, the work we do, our appetite for change and new ways of working have all cemented our position as one of the leading corporate law firms in Australia. Our success is all thanks to the talented people who step out of the lift every day. I know that choosing the right firm to accelerate your career is an important decision. I also know that what matters most is not just the firm, but also the people. At Gilbert + Tobin you will have terrific opportunities to build your relationships with your colleagues and our clients. As you read through this insight into life at Gilbert + Tobin, you’ll meet some of those people. They include recognised leaders in their fields and supportive mentors, as well as recent graduates across every part of our business. No matter where they work, they have in common a restless ambition and the ability to thrive and adapt. They are intuitive learners and resilient problem solvers. They are interested in the world and its challenges, and they are prepared to roll their sleeves up to find a solution. They are great people who succeed by collaborating with people who share their drive. We thrive on the competitive spirit of legal practice, and we see it as a platform to give back. Our pro bono work, and our commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of others and our communities, mean we are doing our best to make a difference for some of Australia’s most disadvantaged and marginalised people. Today, we are determined to make Gilbert + Tobin the most successful and respected law firm in Australia. Our local leadership team and our growing network of international partner firms provide the opportunity to work on complex and interesting matters across borders and cultures. You will encounter powerful opportunities to challenge your thinking and stretch your abilities.
–– Australian Law Firm of the Year 2016 (100 – 500 lawyers) 2016 Australasian Law Awards –– Innovation in use of technology 2016 Financial Times Innovative Lawyers Awards
If you’re interested in being part of that story, you should take this opportunity and step up to the next challenge in your career.
–– Moya Dodd, Partner — The Australian Financial Review and Westpac 100 Women of Influence Awards 2016
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–– Australian Deal of the Year 2016 Australian Law Awards
Some firms may talk about providing unique opportunities. We deliver on our promise to provide real opportunities to advance your career. We provide the chance to be deeply involved in interesting, challenging work much earlier in your career, accelerating your opportunities and experience.
–– Energy & Resources Deal of the Year 2016 Australian Law Awards –– Insolvency and Restructuring Deal of the Year 2016 Australian Law Awards –– M&A Deal of the Year 2016 Australian Law Awards –– Best gender diversity initiative by national firm 2016 Euromoney Asia Women in Business Law Awards
Danny Gilbert Partner
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WESTPAC HACKATHON SYDNEY 8.45AM Inspired by the tech world’s approach to agile development, this hackathon brings together Gilbert + Tobin's technology experts and lawyers with a team from LegalVision, and Westpac’s own technology and legal team. Different perspectives and skills are combined to co-create and prototype a tangible solution — within a 24-hour deadline.
Caryn Sandler Head of Legal Service Innovation “There is so much enthusiasm internally for innovation and doing things differently — it’s a core part of the firm’s culture, it’s part of our DNA. We see technology as an enabler, and it means the quality of work junior lawyers get involved in is far more interesting. We’ve developed tools internally to improve efficiency, but we’re also leading the way in exciting new areas like artificial intelligence and blockchain. Clients are looking to do more with less, so we need to automate tasks to save time.”
Innovation
INNOVATION IS AT THE HEART OF EVERYTHING WE DO
Hackathon 2.0 In January 2016, G+T ran its first hackathon with Westpac’s in-house legal team to uncover new solutions and develop tangible prototypes in an intensive 24-hour event. Set to become an annual event, the next hackathon will also be open for our clerks to get involved. Several of the ideas that emerged in 2016 are now being implemented — for example, Westpac is now using a platform built by LegalVision to manage its secondment needs. LegalVision G+T made a strategic investment in LegalVision in 2015. LegalVision provides high-quality, cost-effective legal services by clever use of technology and processes, and the two businesses are working closely together today. “We’re collaborating more to provide efficient, cost-effective solutions for our larger commercial clients,” explains Sam. G+T lawyers can spend time working at LegalVision to experience a start-up environment on secondment, and identify new opportunities to learn from a market disruptor.
In a highly competitive legal sector that faces increasing technological disruption, Gilbert + Tobin builds solutions for faster turnaround and a better client experience.
AT GILBERT + TOBIN, innovation means doing things in a novel way to improve legal productivity, improve the client experience and outcome, and create new product or service lines. g+t<i> g+t<i> is our internal innovation lab, and it’s delivering technology tools that provide ‘little bits of efficiency’. “We’ve saved 2,500 lawyer hours through simple ideas that make life easier for our legal teams, and give them more time for value-adding tasks,” says G+T's Chief Operating Officer, Sam Nickless. The team of software developers, process engineers, knowledge management and legal technology experts works collaboratively across all areas of the business to bring crowdsourced ideas to life. “We encourage our lawyers to always challenge how things are done and tell us what we can automate. We have the people and the skills to build these solutions and rapidly test them in the field,” says Sam.
Smart Counsel G+T’s Smart Counsel is a complimentary app that provides expert tips, example clauses and usage guides for in-house counsel. It was launched in late 2016 to provide access to helpful legal resources for our clients. “We’ve already had over 1,000 app downloads so far, and amazing feedback from clients,” says Caryn.
dd<i> Almost all Merger and Acquisition (M&A) transactions require due diligence — a legal review to identify any material issues for the business’s buyer. And as a leading M&A law firm, G+T conducts a significant amount of due diligence. To carry out this critical risk management task more cost-effectively, we developed dd<i> in partnership with a US-based lawtech startup. As lawyers perform a due diligence review, dd<i> guides them and collects their findings electronically. It’s just one example of how automating the administrative aspects of legal work provides more time for higher-value legal analysis. Verification tool Developed in-house to respond to an idea from our legal team, the verification tool is one G+T uses to streamline document verification. It’s ideal for the complex and labour-intensive task of preparing a prospectus for an IPO. Lawyers can quickly allocate statements for verification, track what has been verified and provide better information for the client. “There’s the potential to save at least 80 hours on the average IPO,” comments Caryn Sandler, Head of Legal Service Innovation.
She expects to see far more automation of manual legal processes over the next few years. “Our graduates and junior lawyers play a fundamental role in this, because they already look at things differently. They see things through the lens of technology and bring a fresh perspective to traditional legal process.”
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As a firm, we’re known for embracing legal technology. Our lawyers are expected to think differently in the way they approach a legal transaction. And they also are behind some of our best ideas for change — because they’ve noticed we could do things more effectively or efficiently. Sam Nickless Chief Operating Officer
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MOLY-COP ACQUISITION SYDNEY 12.45PM The acquisition of Moly-Cop by American Industrial Partners was a highly complex cross-border transaction. It was the largest sale out of administration since the collapse of Ansett, and over 100 G+T lawyers were involved in a true team effort across M&A, debt financing, insolvency and other practice areas.
Deals
A RIGOROUS APPROACH We work on many of Australia’s most complex, high-stakes business deals. It’s a collaborative effort that involves the skills and expertise of many practice areas as well as our strong commercial acumen.
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To create the competitive tension needed to maximise sale value, we ran a simultaneous IPO and trade sale process. We whittled down a list of 40 to two final bidders who were competing against an IPO. Pens were poised to either sign the sale agreement or launch an IPO, resulting in an outstanding outcome for the client. Hiroshi Narushima Partner
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Deals
Our banking team negotiated eight hedging documents in one week to mitigate our client’s interest rate exposure. The market-leading transaction resulted in a listed REIT with a market capitalisation of approximately $1.5 billion when it debuted on the ASX in August. It is Australia’s only listed REIT that solely owns service stations.
Moly-Cop When Arrium (formerly OneSteel) was placed into voluntary administration in April, its mining consumables division Moly-Cop was still profitable — manufacturing and supplying steel grinding balls and rods to mining operations around the world. Australia’s leading restructuring team at G+T managed lawyers from eight overseas jurisdictions to ensure this dual track deal was successful, resulting in a sale to American Industrial Partners for US$1.23 billion. Qube One of Australia’s largest M&A deals for 2016 was the landmark A$9.05 billion acquisition of Asciano. G+T acted as the lead adviser to the acquisition consortium for ACCC competition clearance, as well as advising on corporate aspects of the transaction and capital raising. The complex deal involved selling Asciano’s Patrick Terminals business to a joint venture between Qube and a consortium including Canada’s Brookfield Infrastructure, while its Bulk and Automotive Port Services business was acquired separately by the Brookfield consortium. This deal resulted in one of the largest integrated logistics businesses in Australia, and required both our technical skills and commercial understanding.
AB InBev In the world’s largest M&A deal for 2016, G+T advised AB InBev on its acquisition of multinational brewing and beverage company SABMiller. This US$107 billion transaction raised many competition and regulatory issues. We managed the Australian elements, including obtaining ACCC and Foreign Investment Review Board (FIRB) approval while ensuring AB InBev achieved its commercial goals. FIRB approval was provided within days of Australia’s government dissolution before the federal election. Had it been delayed due to the caretaker government, it would have affected the broader transaction. Fitness First We advised Oaktree on the sale of its Fitness First portfolio of gyms to Quadrant Private Equity’s Fitness and Lifestyle Group, creating Australia’s largest gym group with 650,000 members. We had previously advised on the sale of Ardent Leisure’s health club business to Quadrant for $260 million.
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Our clients know we provide leadership in these transactions, and that they get an exceptional result. We find ways to make a strategic contribution, be it through a structural, process or analytic alternative, to remove roadblocks and deliver commercial outcomes for all parties. Andrew Bullock Partner
SAI Global This was the biggest private equity publicto-private transaction since 2011, and it was conducted in a very rapid time frame. We advised SAI Global Limited, a leading global risk management service provider, on its acquisition by Barings Asia, one of Asia’s top private equity funds. It was a milestone transaction for SAI and its shareholders, resulting in an implied market capitalisation for SAI of A$1.079 billion.
Viva Energy Having previously helped Vitol acquire Shell’s downstream business in Australia, in 2016 we advised holding company Viva Energy on the securitisation of its service station network through a Real Estate Investment Trust (REIT) listing. This involved a careful structuring of the real estate arrangements in advance of the IPO, and complex negotiations with the anchor tenant.
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Practice Area
CORPORATE ADVISORY
GILBERT + TOBIN’S Corporate Advisory group is recognised as one of the best in their field, combining corporate law expertise with commercial acumen and perseverance. What you’ll experience You’ll be exposed to a large and diverse client base that includes listed companies, private equity firms, investment banks, institutional investors, government agencies and large privately owned companies. You will be part of transaction teams that include specialists from areas such as Competition and Regulation, Banking and Infrastructure and Real Estate and Projects — giving you valuable insights into other parts of the firm. According to Partner Andrew Bullock, Corporate Advisory is a great place to broaden your legal skills. “The work is very interesting because it’s transaction based,” he explains. “And because no two transactions are the same, it is rarely predictable. This is part of the attraction of being in the group.”
Funds Management G+T’s funds management team provides advice to private equity, venture capital, real estate and infrastructure funds managers, as well as large corporations, banks, underwriters and institutional investors. As a market leader in funds establishment in the mid-cap private equity and venture capital space, we’ve acted on almost all of these types of funds in recent years — as well as the majority of regulated M&A transactions for large listed funds. Tax Working collaboratively with lawyers across all practice groups, our tax specialists provide advice on all types of commercial transactions and develop tax-effective structures to minimise the risk of later disputes.
Private Equity As Australia’s leading private equity practice, the team is known for its ability to effectively manage and close large complex deals and help clients get the best outcome in competitive sales processes. We also help them by constantly keeping an eye out for good investment opportunities. Equity Capital Markets A number of our partners are recognised as market leaders for their ability to combine technical skills with commercial insight, often advising on complex financial products and new structures. The team regularly acts for listed companies and global investment banks on equity capital markets transactions.
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What is one thing that surprised you about working with G+T? The camaraderie within our team, we do such interesting work with really great people. Tell us about a deal you worked on recently. I advised Telstra on its acquisition of an Asian telecommunications company. A highlight was acquiring complex negotiation skills from working alongside one of the firm’s most senior and experienced partners. As a bonus, I was offered a secondment at Telstra following that deal.
Cross-border networks Because G+T is an independent firm, we attract referrals from major firms all over the world. Our international network includes top US law firms, UK Magic Circle firms and many other leading firms in key jurisdictions. Mergers and Acquisitions Our M&A partners and lawyers have a reputation for closing difficult and highly strategic transactions. They navigate regulatory and competition law, and financing and commercial restrictions to find a way for clients to achieve their objectives.
Shelley Burger Lawyer
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Mergers and acquisitions is a big part of what we do, alongside private equity and capital markets work. It’s an exciting area and the atmosphere is busy, but very enthusiastic and friendly. John Williamson-Noble Partner
Tell us about a typical day… I get in around 8am, and first I check my inbox to work out my run sheet for the day. I’ll attend two or three meetings — I manage teams of lawyers and report in to partners, so there is always someone to instruct or keep informed. Twice a week I pick my son up from daycare so head home early, but I need to be ready to log back on later in the evening if necessary. What are five things you can't work without? A good team supporting me, an internet connection, access to our e-filing system, my laptop and coffee.
Practice Area
BANKING + INFRASTRUCTURE
OUR BANKING AND INFRASTRUCTURE group advises many large Australian and international financial institutions, investment banks, project funders and sponsors, government entities, corporations, institutional and private equity funds and hedge funds. With a reputation for best-in-class advice, we work collaboratively across the whole firm to provide innovative and creative legal solutions to financing issues. We work especially closely with Corporate Advisory as a seamless team to help them close major M&A deals. What you’ll experience You’ll be encouraged to play an active role from day one — ensuring you progress quickly. Working on a wide range of transactions to broaden your experience, you can be involved in matters across corporate and leveraged finance, project finance, public-private partnerships (PPPs), structured finance, real estate finance, debt capital markets, and insolvency and restructuring. Corporate and Leveraged Finance We advise major listed companies on corporate debt arrangements, as well as private equity firms and corporate and institutional clients on large and complex leveraged M&A transactions. We also advise Australia’s Big Four banks, and the major local and foreign investment banks as lenders for these transactions. Project and Infrastructure Finance Working with our specialists in debt and equity financing arrangements, you’ll be involved in project formation, structuring and implementation of PPPs, and other projects. Our clients include leading Australian and foreign project finance firms and sovereign wealth funds investing in major infrastructure, property development, transport, power and energy, renewables, mining and resources, and oil and gas.
Restructuring and Insolvency Our front-end restructuring and insolvency team works for banks, borrowers, special situation funds and other investors, directors and leading insolvency practitioners in relation to a full range of issues associated with corporate insolvency. In this team, you’ll act on awardwinning restructures and workouts, standstill arrangements, distressed debt investing, security enforcement, intercreditor issues, large administrations and receiverships and provide advice to directors of publicly listed companies on their directors’ duties, including their duty to avoid trading whilst insolvent. In this area, you will work on Australia’s highest profile insolvency situations. Structured Finance and Debt Capital Markets Our debt capital market specialists advise on securitisations, establishing note programs, credit-wrapped notes, US and domestic private placements, and Islamic bonds.
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We work with our clients on some of the largest cutting-edge transactions taking place in the Australian market — from financing highprofile corporate M&A transactions, to financing large-scale infrastructure projects and complex debt restructuring.
Spiro Papadolias Lawyer Why G+T? I love being able to take ownership of the whole deal from beginning to end. The team has grown exponentially since I joined in 2007, and that’s a real buzz for me. It’s also been good for my personal development — as a lawyer at G+T, you get an opportunity to be involved in a wide range of financing transactions and work alongside market-leading lawyers and colleagues. What type of things could a clerk expect to do here? There are so many opportunities to get involved, you just need to put your hand up. It’s often a mad rush as we get close to settlement of a transaction, and our clerks will find themselves assisting with important documents and processes required for financial close. More importantly, a clerk at G+T should expect an environment where they can ask questions and have a direct say in their learning and development. What is one thing that surprised you about working with G+T? The variety of personalities and skillsets our group has — I’m constantly discovering new and interesting things about the people in our team.
John Schembri Partner
What are five things you can't work without? A laptop with a two screen setup, a good coffee, clear instructions, an afternoon run and a team of really talented people (we’re always bouncing ideas off each other).
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Practice Area
TECHNOLOGY, MEDIA + TELECOMMUNICATIONS
AUSTRALIA’S LEADERS in technology, media and telecommunications, Gilbert + Tobin’s TMT team works closely with its clients as they pursue the digital transformation of their businesses. What you’ll experience Assisting on both local and international matters involving cloud technology, big data, online payment structures, regulatory compliance, procurement and data privacy, you’ll have the opportunity to quickly develop your skills and knowledge of many exciting industries and technologies. Transformation We are a passionate team of TMT specialists with a reputation across multiple industries for our ability to support transformation through innovation, excellence, agility and deep industry knowledge. For more than a decade we have ranked in the top tier of The Legal 500 Asia Pacific and Chambers Asia Pacific for TMT. Client collaboration We don’t just deliver on the status quo — we work closely with our clients to identify how things need to work differently. Technology trends lead to the development of new strategies and commercial models, and see us working with clients to create new and innovative frameworks to accommodate a rapidly changing world.
Commercial execution Our focus is always on the big picture — not just the legal issues, but also the strategic and commercial considerations, business requirements and how to execute in a fast and agile manner. We have deep expertise in regulatory and compliance — including privacy and security requirements and industry-specific regulations — and this knowledge is critical to our ability to develop solutions that address these challenges in new digital and cloudbased environments.
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Our clients are increasingly turning to cloud, mobility, the Internet of Things, robotic process automation and data analytics to stay competitive in today’s environment. It’s important for young lawyers to understand the implications of these technologies on our clients’ businesses. Sheila McGregor Partner
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Outstanding practitioners with a wealth of transactional and regulatory experience on market-leading deals for key industry clients. Chambers Asia Pacific 2016
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Melissa Fai Lawyer Why G+T? Originally, because it was a young firm with a focus on TMT. I returned after eight years with a large London firm because it still has such an outstanding reputation. What do you enjoy most about working in TMT today? The variety. I see a cross-section of industries — from banking to telcos, transport and even not-for-profits. Often we’ll advise on the TMT aspects of corporate deals. What is one thing that surprised you about working here? Coming back, I expected the firm to have changed as it had grown. But it still feels like the small firm I started with — in a good way! Everyone still knows each other. Tell us about a deal you’ve worked on this year. Leading and seeing a deal for Adobe through to the end was very rewarding. It was a combined business purchase and software licensing. Tell us about a typical day… Generally I am a late starter (depending on my schedule) — I like to spend some time in the morning with my son. I’ll usually sort out some emails on the train — we often get overnight emails from the US and UK — and work out priorities for the day and week. Then I focus on the big urgent deliverables first. I try to leave between 7.30 and 8.00pm.
Practice Area
COMPETITION + REGULATION
WITH NINE PARTNERS, one special counsel and more than 25 lawyers, Gilbert + Tobin’s competition practice is one of the largest in Australia. Our focus on achieving results in high-stakes transactions and litigation for our clients means we consistently win complex, pioneering projects that demand specialist expertise and leadership. What you’ll experience With an established reputation as a ‘game changer’, we have the ability to turn around potentially adverse decisions to achieve positive results for our clients — often where others have not. This impressive track record makes G+T the go-to firm for foreign law firms seeking local counsel to manage the Australian and Asia Pacific end of global mergers and cartel investigations. Our multidisciplinary approach integrates economic skills, legal analysis and specialist industry knowledge to deliver commercially focused and innovative legal solutions. “You can expect to be meaningfully involved in matters, and access lawyers at the top of their game. You have the flexibility to make what you want of the experience,” says lawyer Andrew Low. Industry specialists We uniquely combine general competition law and industry-specific regulation — including telco, gas, electricity, ports, rail and water — in one practice. This gives you the opportunity to work on some of the most important infrastructure issues in our national economy, including the National Broadband Network, our national energy policy and Australia’s transport infrastructure.
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The best competition/ antitrust firm in Australia, with daylight second… They understand their clients’ drivers and needs and the team offers a consistent approach in delivering high-quality support.
Scope for growth Within our open and collaborative culture, you will work across the group and be encouraged to work on a mix of competition and regulatory matters to help define your interests and focus over time. Our partners and lawyers are passionate mentors with an open door policy. They value the opportunity to shape the future talent of our firm, and to foster a nurturing and supportive environment, particularly for junior lawyers. Your contributions will be encouraged and valued, with many of our junior lawyers and graduates playing a pivotal role in matters. We also value your ideas for improving work practices and utilising technology to change how we work as lawyers, with the practice and business of the law undergoing fundamental transformation and disruption.
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We provide clients with critical transactional and regulatory advice that has shaped a broad range of industries. You can expect to assist on matters across sectors such as broadcasting and media, energy and utilities, financial services, retail, resources, telecommunications and transport.
Andrew Low Lawyer Why G+T? As a law student deciding on a summer clerkship, I found it hard to differentiate the top tier firms. So the decision was really an emotional one — I picked G+T because the firm gave me a genuine and positive sense that I was important to them and I also found the firm to be very progressive. What do you enjoy most about working here today? The three Ps: the People — who are inspiring, motivating, hilarious, compassionate and diligent. The Practice — which is broad, complex and engaging… and my Personality — which prefers a good mix of subject matter and a high-performing environment. Tell us about a typical day… I’m not an early morning person, so the smell of fresh coffee gets me started at 9.30am and I warm up with billing. There’s no real ‘typical’ day, things can and do get interesting quickly. I head home when I become unproductive: a full day would be 9pm. A more productive day might be 5pm or even earlier.
Luke Woodward Partner
What are five things you can't work without? Great working relationships with my clients and the support of my mentors. Beyond that… coffee, music to keep me focused, and it helps to remember my security pass.
Chambers Asia Pacific 2017
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Practice Area
INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY
AS ONE OF Australia’s leading intellectual property practices, Gilbert + Tobin has IP lawyers working on some of Australia’s most exciting and challenging copyright, trade mark and patent matters. We also have a leading team working on IP transactions for major corporates and startups. Our IP litigation includes substantial appellate work in the Full Federal Court and the High Court. This is where IP law gets made. What you’ll experience Many of our cases are taught in university courses, so you’ll have the chance to work closely with partners and lawyers who are recognised thought leaders and active agents in the development of IP law in Australia. Our diverse range of work and clients spans all major industry sectors, leading us to work with multinationals, brand leaders, creators and innovators across media and entertainment, FMCG, healthcare services, mining and technology. “The work we do is always interesting and challenging. We are looking for highly motivated people with a creative mind and an ambition to be part of a team striving to achieve outstanding outcomes for our clients,” says Partner and Practice Group Leader Michael Williams. Advertising Working on a steady stream of major advertising challenges under Australian Consumer Law, the IP group works with categories and brands from beverages to razors, batteries and electronics. We also provide pre-publication advice and assistance to advertisers and their agencies in Australia and in New Zealand. Brand Protection and Trade Marks You’ll work alongside lawyers who manage significant brand portfolios and provide advice on all aspects of brand protection, enforcement and recovery. Our clients include some of the best-known companies in media, technology, retail, financial markets and consumer products — in Australia and overseas.
Commercial IP A substantial part of our work supports the significant commercial transactions managed by G+T’s corporate group. These transactions frequently depend on assuring the ownership and validity of IP assets for valuations. Our lawyers have an eye for detail and the ability to spot any commercially relevant issues. Copyright No other practice can match our knowledge of copyright, experience in copyright litigation, and capacity to provide strategic advice on copyright works. Our matters define the cutting edge of copyright law, policy and practice. Patents Patent advice, enforcement and litigation form the basis of our patent practice. We work on Federal Court patent matters involving a wide range of industries including consumer electronics, biotech, gaming, telecommunications, online services and mining. From the technologies used in online retailing to drilling or computer systems, the value of these cases is often substantial — whether we are acting to recover or defend multi-milliondollar damages claims.
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Our lawyers are frequently dealing with issues that are first in market or where we are testing the boundaries of IP law in this country. Michael Williams Partner
Michael Tong Lawyer Why G+T? I wanted to be part of a young, growing firm that was driven to do the best legal work, and also valued diversity and difference. What do you enjoy most about working in Intellectual Property today? Without a doubt, it's the people — there's never a dull moment. Also the diversity of subject matter and clients in IP litigation. In a short span of time I've learnt (a lot) about coffee distribution, mining processes and Facebook applications. What is one thing that surprised you about working with G+T? How focused G+T is on shaping and defining the changing legal market through innovation and technology. Tell us about one deal you’ve worked on — what did you learn? My first patent litigation case involved software applications (a subject I knew absolutely nothing about). I learnt how to prepare evidence and worked with industry experts from Australia, Argentina and the UK. A bonus was seeing the case settle on favourable terms for our client. What’s a typical day like? I typically start with emails and a quick flick through the news, then spend the day drafting affidavits in preparation for trial, or conducting IP due diligence as part of a large corporate deal. I usually head home by 7.30pm — or later when there are pressing deadlines. What are five things you can't work without? A good night's sleep, natural light, coffee, sour candy and the amazing support team.
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Practice Area
ENERGY + RESOURCES
OUR ENERGY and Resources team is recognised for its contribution in shaping the market across Australia, and works across legal borders to support projects in emerging economies and other major resource, oil and gas producers.
Port and Rail Our Energy and Resources group includes leaders in commercial and regulatory design, financing and access arrangements across regulated and unregulated port and rail infrastructure.
What you’ll experience A combination of corporate, regulatory and project experience will give you insight into the entire life cycle of a project — including exploration, finance, acquisitions and disposals, development, construction, regulation and operations. Some of Gilbert + Tobin’s partners have been non-executive directors of listed and unlisted exploration, mining and gas companies, making this the ideal environment to advance your career in Energy and Resources.
Native Title and Land Access This is an opportunity to work alongside lawyers who advise energy and resources companies, government and Indigenous groups. We assist our energy and resources clients with Native Title processes for tenure grants, and the construction of mines and associated infrastructure.
Mining and Resources We regularly advise publicly listed and private Australian and international companies involved in resource exploration, development and operation. We also advise government, regulators and other stakeholders on mining legislation and regulation, and draft agreements, and our lawyers have expertise in hard-rock mining, oil and gas, and resources projects in emerging economies — primarily in Africa.
We also help those clients with indigenous cultural heritage protocols and ensure they develop a strong working relationship with traditional owners. We also act for significant Indigenous organisations in relation to internal governance, commercial arrangements and maintenance of community integrity. Our Land Access practice includes access arrangements with private landowners and leaseholders for exploration and mining, as well as access and land tenure arrangements under State Agreements.
Emma McLeod Lawyer What do you enjoy most about working in Energy and Resources today? It is challenging — nothing we do is ever the same, but it is such a pleasure to help clients get a project off the ground. It’s also such a key part of Perth’s economy. What is one thing that surprised you about working with G+T? How lovely and supportive my team is. What do you wish you’d known before you started working here? Treat every task as a learning experience — it is surprising how many times you will actually use that knowledge down the track.
Oil and Gas Advising private and government clients across Australia and internationally on all aspects of oil and gas exploration and development, our lawyers are involved in mergers and acquisitions, developing and structuring joint ventures, implementing financing arrangements and providing operational and strategic legal advice. They also provide advice on international law — including international sanctions, trade restrictions, energy security, issues of sovereignty and cross-border or joint development of petroleum resources.
What does a typical day look like? I aim to be in the office by 7.30am at the latest. The first thing I do each day is check the AFR, followed by my calendar and to-do list. I usually have one to two meetings or conference calls a day and head home around 6.30pm. What are five things you can't work without? Water, my Outlook calendar and OneNote to-do list, Workshare Compare… and a chocolate biscuit at 3pm.
Energy, Utilities and Renewable Energy Our clients include energy retailers, electricity and gas transmission businesses, generation businesses, regulators, market managers and investment banks. We have also advised on many of Australia’s most important renewable energy projects, including hydropower, wind power, solar power and geothermal.
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Practice Area
REAL ESTATE + PROJECTS
OUR REAL ESTATE and Projects group guides clients through the property, planning, environmental and construction aspects of many significant and complex corporate infrastructure projects, as well as a wide range of real estate transactions. We also advise on the property aspects of complex cross-practice matters. What you’ll experience As the work we do is largely transaction-based, you’ll follow transactions from inception through to completion, gaining valuable hands-on experience in the life cycle of complex transactions. Our client base is diverse and includes major investors, owners of key infrastructure, developers, construction companies, financiers, fund managers, renewable energy providers, communications and media operators, and government agencies. Our planning lawyers also conduct environment and planning litigation. We collaborate closely with other practice groups across the firm — including corporate, finance, energy and resources, litigation and tax — to ensure property transactions run smoothly. Property We advise clients on transactions across a broad range of developments, including mixed-use greenfields projects and redevelopments, and commercial, industrial and retail purchases, sales and leasing. We also work on infrastructure projects (including complex port and rail projects), renewable energy and resource projects, and telecommunications projects. And our property advice also encompasses data centres, Native Title issues, water rights and foreign investment advice.
Construction G+T’s construction lawyers provide specialist legal advice on all aspects of construction law from the inception of a project through to completion. They advise clients on financing, constructing, connecting and operating biomass plants, wind farms and solar energy fields (thermal and photovoltaic), and on NABERS and Green Star ratings. Planning and Environment Our lawyers advise on planning, contamination, climate change, water and renewable energy issues in areas such as coal mine and farm acquisitions, remediation of contaminated land, and renewable energy projects. Our specialist lawyers assist clients with development approvals and provide strategic advice on environmental assessments.
Tanja Mikulic Lawyer Why G+T? I was looking for a mix of advisory and transactional work in environment and planning law, and a firm that valued curiosity, lateral thinking, open communication and a positive attitude. The more I learned about G+T, the more it seemed like the right fit for me. What do you enjoy most about working in this area? The work is so varied and interesting — every day is different and I am always learning. It also challenges my limits. We are expected to understand the law in different jurisdictions and find a solution, whether in NSW, South Australia or Queensland. What is one thing that surprised you about working here? Lack of hierarchy and red tape — things seem to get done quicker as a result! Tell us about a recent matter you worked on. We helped our client remediate, rezone and redevelop a significant historical industrial site into a new suburb with a commercial hub, a residential community and new social amenities, including land set aside for environmental conservation. Over the past year, it’s been an inspiring challenge. What are five things you can't work without? Open communication, support and encouragement from my colleagues, my to-do list, the great vibe around the office, and coming home to a warm meal after a busy day.
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Practice Area
LITIGATION
WE ADVISE ON some of Australia’s most complex and ground breaking commercial litigation matters, and our award-winning litigation group is independently recognised as the best dispute resolution team in Australia. What you’ll experience Working at the coalface of some of the biggest litigation matters in Australia, you can expect to be involved in complex issues quickly, and to assist on sensitive and critical matters. This includes high-stakes litigation, matters involving competition and regulation issues, and investigations by industry watchdogs such as ASIC, the ACCC and the ACMA. You’ll be involved in court appearances and conferences with leading Australian counsel. It’s an environment that encourages entrepreneurialism and rewards passion and commitment. We will work with you to ensure you thrive, mentored by the best to become a litigation specialist. Class actions Class actions are an increasing source of litigation. Defending clients in large-scale and complex class actions, we work closely with clients and regulators to proactively mitigate the risk of them arising or proceeding beyond a preliminary stage. Corporate and Regulatory investigations Investigations and enforcement action can have enormous impact on a business — on its reputation, commercial relationships and (if listed) share price — not to mention the toll on management and the time spent dealing with those actions. We draw on the skills and expertise of our team to address key areas of concern. This can include working on our client’s response to the regulator and/or government entity, conducting internal investigations to support defences and mitigation opportunities, and helping clients improve their systems, processes, training and monitoring for the future.
Employment Our Employment team advises on all aspects of the employment relationship, from commencement to termination, including executive contracts, workplace health and safety, workplace investigations, employee performance and employment litigation. New team members may be asked to assist in the preparation of litigation, attend a Fair Work Commission hearing or work on a significant matter, typically driven by an M&A transaction. Our approach We are renowned for our ability to stay nimble and think creatively, employing a strategic approach to fulfilling our clients’ needs. As a team that takes pride in offering creative and tailored solutions, we focus on providing the best outcomes in dispute resolution — from pre-litigation advice to using or responding to litigation. It’s an exciting space to work in and one that demands that we never stand still. Our willingness to embrace change, adapt as necessary and adopt innovation has earned us a reputation as the top-tier firm to watch.
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Specialising in this field requires strategic thinking. It’s not only about winning legal points, but also getting a result for your client that fits their commercial goals.
Matt Mackenzie Lawyer Why G+T? I felt that G+T did cutting-edge, premium quality work, and that with its relatively informal structure and proudly meritocratic culture I would get greater access to that work earlier in my career. What do you enjoy most about your work today? The intellectual stimulation. Litigation requires precise, strategic thinking to develop arguments and solutions that will withstand the scrutiny of the other side and ultimately satisfy the Court. What could a clerk or graduate expect to do in litigation? Typically, a lot of the investigative and forensic work. Clerks, graduates and junior lawyers are often involved in the research, investigation and analysis that underpin our legal and commercial strategy. It’s a bit like being an investigative journalist piecing together a story. What does a typical day look like? There really is no such thing as a typical day. Some are filled with meetings and calls, others drafting one complex document. The variety and the way the day can change in an instant are two of the things I enjoy most about my work.
Kate Harrison Partner
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Practice Area
PRO BONO
WE BELIEVE lawyers have a responsibility to ensure that the law and the legal system are fair, equitable and accessible to all. In 1996, Gilbert + Tobin was the first law firm in Australia to appoint a full-time in-house pro bono lawyer. We now have five full-time lawyers working in the pro bono group including two partners as well as lawyers undertaking pro bono matters across the firm. We are proud advocates of social justice and focus on providing advice and support to marginalised and disadvantaged people and the organisations that work with them. Our pro bono practice covers many diverse areas of law including discrimination, corporate law, property law, administrative law, defamation and public international law — with a particular focus on issues affecting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, refugees, people with disabilities and the protection of human rights. What you’ll experience We encourage all our clerks, graduates and lawyers to actively participate in pro bono work. Graduate lawyers and clerks in our Sydney office can apply for a rotation position with the pro bono group.
Estate planning Our lawyers regularly travel to regional and remote areas of NSW and Victoria to draft Wills, Powers of Attorney and Appointments of Enduring Guardian for parents and carers of people with cognitive disability, and Indigenous clients. This could take you from Bourke to Brewarrina, Kempsey to Mildura — as well as metropolitan locations such as La Perouse and Redfern. Homeless Persons' Legal Service The Homeless Persons' Legal Service provides free legal assistance to people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness. Our lawyers attend the advice clinic at Matthew Talbot Hostel in Woolloomooloo weekly to provide one-off advice and ongoing assistance. Asylum Seekers Centre We work with clients at the Asylum Seekers Centre and Refugee Advice and Casework Service on their applications for asylum in Australia.
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Sometimes just assisting on a very small matter can make a huge difference to someone’s life. Tamara Sims Pro Bono Lawyer
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What attracted you to work with the Pro Bono team? It’s what I always wanted to do as a lawyer — I want to use the skills I have to do something that contributes to those who need help in the community. It’s my chance to make a real contribution to social justice across different areas of law. How can junior lawyers get involved with pro bono cases? We encourage all new starters to join a roster, or let us know what types of matters they’d like to be involved in. In some cases, the commercial law skills already developed will be valuable — and we’ll help our people develop specialist skills such as wills and estate planning, tenancy actions, or asylum seeker law.
Junior lawyers can be involved in a range of matters as diverse as Native Title disputes in the High Court, researching constitutional law, or working with not-for-profit organisations to improve corporate governance. Judicial review Sometimes clients are adversely affected by unlawful government decisions. For example, in 2015 we assisted the Machado Joseph Disease Foundation to recover $10 million in funding, which had been granted by one government minister and then purportedly revoked by another.
Michelle Hannon Partner
In FY16 the firm completed more than 19,454 hours of pro bono work – an average of 65+ hours per lawyer – conservatively valued at over $8.75 million.
Where have you made a meaningful difference this year? If we’re able to achieve refugee status for someone, it’s impossible to imagine how we could make a bigger difference to an individual’s life. But we’re also working on systemic political change. For example, our work with the Wik and Wik Way people on Cape York has resulted in legislative change.
Digital
AT THE FOREFRONT OF DIGITAL CHANGE
Simon Burns Partner
As trusted advisers to our clients, we are expected to understand the implications of what is happening in the marketplace, as almost every industry experiences some form of disruption. Our digital team supports Gilbert + Tobin’s practice areas advising clients on how they can best harness the potential of technology in their organisations to launch new products and business models. “THIS WORKS IN two ways,” explains Simon Burns, Partner with the TMT group. “We provide training and awareness sessions for clients so they have access to the latest trends and thinking. We also provide legal advice on contract structures and the risks and opportunities associated with new technology.” For example, in 2016 G+T brought in one of the co-founders of Ethereum, a global blockchainbased platform for smart contracts. We ran in-housing coding sessions for their lawyers, as well as a series of private client sessions and a public seminar. “Over the course of a year, we’ll ask many international experts to come in and talk with us, so we can build our domain expertise,” says Simon. “Our lawyers attend technology conferences and are encouraged to go to blockchain meetups. Some may even spend days working from start-up co-working spaces, picking up new ways of using technology or doing business, almost through osmosis.” By building our understanding of both the commercial context and legal implications of all the building blocks of the new economy, we can help our clients navigate the complexities of change and capitalise on emerging opportunities — from data analytics and blockchain to artificial intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things. This may include advising on data protection and data access regimes, regulatory advice regarding new business models, or supporting
Why G+T? I was attracted to G+T's reputation in the technology space. I also like the entrepreneurial spirit of G+T, it gives us more freedom in the way we operate and results in a more exciting and open-minded work environment.
the litigation team with prosecuting cyber security breaches. It also affects M&A activity — for example, by ensuring that data and technology assets that underpin the business are properly managed and addressed throughout the transaction and any transitional arrangements. “We also provide advice on the organisational controls a client needs when implementing artificial intelligence,” says Simon. He finds the combination of all these areas of technology incredibly exciting. “It’s not just one thing: it’s the Internet of Things sending data to a distributed ledger platform with AI running over the top of it all collecting data. In my mind, that’s where the magic happens.”
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How does the TMT group support G+T’s digital focus? We operate as part of a ‘virtual team’ that the rest of the firm can tap into when they need specific digital expertise. The key TMT aspect to that is that we understand the technology that underpins all these new digital business models that are popping up, and so can advise on the associated risks and the opportunities. Tell us about a typical day… I’m a morning person, so if I’m busy I may start as early as 6am but try to leave at a reasonable hour. The day can be a mix of client meetings, preparing for presentations, reading up on industry news so I understand what technology is emerging. Outside of that, I'm usually in a room negotiating deals on behalf of our clients. What four things can't you work without? My phone and headphones, multiple coffees to get my day started — and a doughnut from down the road.
We are harnessing the laws of change as the go-to advisers on digital transformation, helping our clients respond to the opportunities and threats of this techdriven revolution in their industries. Simon Burns Partner
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A VICTORY FOR THE MARNINWARNTIKURA COMMUNITY FITZROY CROSSING 2.05PM G+T lawyers are working with Marninwarntikura Women’s Resource Centre to keep alcohol restrictions in place in Fitzroy Crossing. After spending a week taking statements on the ground in this Western Australian town, it was clear the transformational effect the restrictions have already had — including significant reductions in domestic violence and suicides, and improved school outcomes. We also supported the community pre-school with a $20,000 grant in 2017.
Corporate Social Responsibility
MAKING A POSITIVE DIFFERENCE When you work with Gilbert + Tobin you’re part of a team that is committed to being a responsible corporate citizen, making a positive impact in our community.
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I really enjoy working with our Indigenous cadets… I was one myself at university, so I know the challenges. It’s wonderful to be involved in their development and see how they grow through our program. Eloise Schnierer Head of Corporate Social Responsibility
THERE ARE MANY WAYS to get involved with our reconciliation, community and environmental programs, and your time and energy can make many of these initiatives a success.
their studies while working with us part-time. We also run a mentoring program for first-year Indigenous students, and in 2017 we will launch a new full-time traineeship for an operational team member studying business administration.
Through your involvement, you’ll not only be playing your part in supporting or inspiring others, you’ll develop valuable leadership and communication skills, and build a lifelong network of future colleagues.
Indigenous procurement As a member of Supply Nation, we are committed to diversifying our supply chain by proactively procuring from Indigenous businesses. We also support Indigenous start-up businesses with advice through our pro bono practice.
RECONCILIATION Since the firm was established in 1988, we’ve been committed to promoting and supporting reconciliation with Indigenous Australians. As well as providing professional skills to this endeavour through our pro bono practice, we provide professional development programs, support Indigenous economic development and create cultural and engagement opportunities. Indigenous employment We currently employ 17 Indigenous staff, including three Aboriginal lawyers, but we know we can do more to give Indigenous Australians the same opportunities offered to non-Indigenous Australians. Our highly successful Indigenous legal cadetship program enables Indigenous law students to complete
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Cultural awareness training To empower all our people to take steps towards reconciliation, we are working to help them better understand Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people’s aspirations, culture and history. As well as a formal cultural awareness training program, each year several lawyers who complete more than 50 hours of pro bono work participate in cultural immersion in Arnhem Land through Lirriwi Yolngu Tourism. Throughout our offices you’ll find an inspiring collection of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art.
Corporate Social Responsibility
COMMUNITY
ENVIRONMENT
From financial and in-kind support to volunteering our time, we support the communities we work with in many ways.
As a reporting member of the Australian Legal Sector Alliance (AusLSA), we take a systematic approach to identifying and managing our most significant environmental impacts and we launched our first certified Environmental Management System (EMS) in 2015.
School mentoring partnerships Through the Australian Business and Community Network (ABCN), our staff volunteer in programs for children in disadvantaged public schools in Sydney, Melbourne and Perth. This includes Monterey Secondary College, 40km outside Melbourne, where we provide a mentoring program to help the school tackle high levels of absenteeism, and a school in Mount Annan in Western Sydney. One of our most popular mentoring programs is Focus, a three- to six-week program that connects young female leaders with senior women at G+T. Football United This special community organisation provides social and sporting networks for young refugees who have settled in Australia. We’ve provided financial support and pro bono services since its inception, and regularly host events — including one for its 10-year anniversary in 2016.
Our current environmental priorities focus on energy and paper use, and IT equipment disposal. Over the past year we have reduced our energy consumption per employee, and significantly decreased our paper usage by upgrading laptops and printers. We aim to only travel when necessary, further reducing our travel-related carbon emissions — and our new video conferencing technology makes it much easier for people to do business remotely. Now that our Sydney office is located in a highly efficient, 6-star Green Star rated building at Barangaroo, we are committed to maintaining a 5-star Green Star rated tenancy through these initiatives.
Gilbert + Tobin Centre for Public Law (UNSW) The Centre plays a prominent, independent role in public debate on issues vital to Australia’s future including Charters of Rights, federal reform, reconciliation and Native Title, refugee and migration law and the challenges of responding to terrorism.
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Andrew Hii Lawyer “G+T gives me the freedom to mentor in the way that I think will work best. It doesn’t impose any formal or strict rules that force a particular kind of relationship — and I think that allows positive working relationships to develop quite naturally. I also get a lot from the relationship — including ideas for improving the way we do things at G+T. Mentoring gives me a different perspective on my own skills and leadership.”
Mentoring
WE’RE WITH YOU ALL THE WAY Mentoring is an important aspect of professional development and personal growth at Gilbert + Tobin, and your relationship with your mentor will evolve in a way that works best for both you and your mentor.
AS A GRADUATE, you’ll be paired with a more experienced lawyer who will mentor and guide you through your rotations and your transition into a practice area. You can look to your mentor to assist you in establishing relationships across the firm and for ongoing support as needed. It’s less about developing your technical legal skills, and more about helping you forge your own career path. You may also develop a more flexible or informal mentor relationship through the work you do with experienced lawyers and partners. We find the best mentoring relationships tend to evolve quite naturally. Andrew Hii, a lawyer with the TMT practice group, says he typically mentors younger lawyers after working with them on a matter. “I love working with lawyers who show ambition and promise, and always have time to mentor someone who would benefit from any career guidance I can offer — as opposed to specific help with their legal work.” He’ll meet them as often as they like, usually catching up over lunch or a drink once a month or so.
“ Mentors can provide a useful sounding board for handling difficult work situations, or they may act as an advocate for their mentees — helping them set goals as they advance their career. “I might provide feedback on their performance review, so they can present themselves in the best possible light and help them identify goals for what they hope to achieve in the future. Or, they might not be sure who to approach about an issue or how to handle it and I can help them proactively turn any concerns into goals and actions.”
We also often chat informally from time to time — there’s no need to wait for a scheduled catch-up to discuss any concerns or matters where my advice may be of help. Andrew Hii Lawyer
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Learning + Development
ACHIEVING YOUR POTENTIAL Our programs equip our people for practice through a blend of mentoring, on-the-job, classroom and online learning. We’re redefining what learning and development means as we create the standout corporate law firm of the future — at Gilbert + Tobin, that means pathways as individual as you are, designed to spark your interest and develop your unique capabilities.
IF YOU’RE A GRADUATE or junior lawyer you will often work directly with a partner. This gives you the opportunity to develop your technical skills (such as drafting or researching) every day, as well as broader skills such as client communication and managing your personal brand.
All graduates undertake a set training program that covers all the essentials: College of Law sessions, your admission and practising certificate, and of course technical skills and business knowledge. But at G+T we believe in also offering you more opportunities to challenge your thinking or broaden your horizons.
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Agile program pathways We encourage graduates and clerks to attend our regular practical workshops, which could cover specialist practice area insights or creative thinking. Our workshop programs are designed to respond to market changes, so we can help you develop the skills our clients demand.
Technology is moving so quickly, and I want to continue diversifying my legal skills to stay relevant. One of the best workshops I attended last year was on coding — I’d learned about blockchain and smart contracts in previous programs, so understanding how code could be used to make those things happen was enlightening. It was also really practical and fast-paced. Sophie Chesterton Lawyer 26 Gilbert + Tobin
We also support our lawyers if they want to attend external training or conferences in relevant areas of interest. For example, last year a junior IP lawyer observed a High Court appeal in the Myriad Genetics DNA patents case in Canberra, while another attended an innovation conference. Clerk induction program During your first week as a clerk you’ll attend some sessions on personal brand and communication. Your clerkship may be your first opportunity to network and develop your professional skills, so we want to help you make the most of that. You’ll also attend presentation skills training as part of your clerkship project, and have the opportunity to attend practice group training.
PROFESSIONAL GROWTH Legal essentials –– College of Law training sessions and accreditation programs run in-house –– G+T pays your admission and annual practising certificate fees –– Legal, technical and business skills training — from mastering contracts and research skills to business development 101
Continual learning and professional development –– Industry Insight series –– Client management and business development skills –– Project and matter management –– Leadership development and resilience training –– Continuing Professional Development — meet your CPD requirements with internal events
Accelerate your career –– Annual graduate internship at Anderson Mōri & Tomotsune in Tokyo, Japan –– Mentor programs –– Women@G+T –– Internal and external network events and round tables –– Postgraduate study financial assistance and study leave –– Scholarships for overseas study –– Local and global secondments with clients and market-leading firms
Althea Carbon Lawyer “G+T is the place where you can make opportunities happen for yourself — informal training and forging your own path are both encouraged. The learning and development programs help you think outside the box — from sessions on mindfulness and creativity to coding workshops.”
SHARING NEW IDEAS 4.30PM Working collaboratively comes naturally within G+Tâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s open environment â&#x20AC;&#x201D; at every level and across all practice areas. When a client needs specialist expertise or a new perspective, you can count on another team member to help you get things done. Everyone works together, because we know our collective contribution can make all the difference.
Harsimran Kaur Lawyer “I think G+T really exemplifies a great workplace culture. You can take as much responsibility as you like, it’s up to you and the career path you want to take. I’ve realised that I’ll learn the most when I’m given something really challenging — it’s exponential learning, and it gives me skills I can apply anywhere, to any industry. My mentor gives me a great perspective on the type and variety of work I want to do. He has also broadened my skillset because he is so organised and tech-savvy — I’ve learned from him how to use apps like OneNote to manage different matters, and I’ve brought that into my team.”
People + Culture
BRINGING OUT THE BEST IN PEOPLE
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Our people tell us that the reason they come to work at Gilbert + Tobin every day is the quality of the people and the work — including our clients and relationships.
WHAT IS IT really like to work at G+T? “Our culture is unique, and at its heart it’s a paradox,” says Adam Laura, Partner — Corporate Advisory. “It’s energetic and proactive, incredibly driven and ambitious — but also understated, funny and generous. We describe it as being ‘smart with heart’.” This is what underlies the positive, productive and personal relationships we build with each other, and with our clients. Interactions that embrace what it means to be an individual. Constantly looking for ways to challenge the status quo, and to bring out the best in ourselves as well as others. Our clerks and graduates are often attracted to the firm by the egalitarian, open structure. “Our people have the opportunity to go as far as they want, and we recognise and reward that,” explains Adam. “The pace is fast and can be constant, but you’ll get to work on things that interest and stimulate you early in your career. G+T challenges people irrespective of their role — and that pushes you to do and be better.” One thing you’ll also notice across all our teams and offices is we know how to have fun — and not take ourselves too seriously. Our desire to win and excel is just as important as our commitment to acting with integrity as an outstanding corporate citizen. Our people If our culture as a law firm is a little different, then so are our people. They may be talented and ambitious, but they’re also down to earth and inclusive.
Our opportunities We invest in our people in many different ways. You’ll be encouraged to take up secondments in different locations and practice groups, as well as with clients. You may be offered funding for work-related conferences or research projects, and we provide financial support for further education. Diversity and inclusion At G+T, we want to tap into the firm’s diverse population, understand the difference in perspectives and ensure everyone feels they can achieve their potential. We actively embrace difference, whether it’s gender, ethnicity or how someone identifies. As an active LGBTI community, the firm is a supportive and inclusive place. It’s also a meritocracy — your contribution will be rewarded regardless of your work arrangements or who you are, and we have some great role models within our partnership and senior leadership team. We’ve been recognised as an outstanding Employer of Choice for Women for four years from 2010, and more recently with three years of Employer of Choice citations from the Workplace Gender Equality Agency. We have a high proportion of female partners and managers and analyse gender pay equity annually. We also undertake a biannual diversity audit and conduct unique programs to educate and build awareness on important issues such as diversity, inclusion and unconscious bias.
Moving our Sydney office to Barangaroo has re-energised our culture even further. It’s a vibrant precinct that’s buzzing day and night, surrounded by beautiful natural spaces. Inside, it’s filled with light and generous open areas with inspiring outlooks. And we’ve found people are connecting and collaborating more with each other through the design and open plan layout, which is beautiful and quite different from what people perceive. Adam Laura Partner — Corporate Advisory
G+T have been recognised as an excellent employer for women for many years, most recently at the 2016 Euromoney Asia Women in Business Law Awards: –– Best gender diversity initiative by national firm –– Best national firm mentoring program
Their intelligence, empathy and resilience would make them valuable members of many different organisations — but at G+T, they thrive. If you are self-motivated and confident, determined to constantly deliver quality work and love to connect with others, then G+T will give you the space and opportunity to achieve your best.
–– Best national firm for women in business law –– Best international firm for women in business law
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THE WORKING DAY IS JUST THE START Being part of G+T isn’t all about the work. You’ll also have many opportunities to join in a range of social, sporting and community activities, to celebrate wins and build lifelong friendships. At the inter-clerk harbour cruise in Sydney, it's time for some 'Greased Lightning'.
In June, we raced through Barangaroo in the City Mile Dash, raising funds for the Cancer Council.
Team G+T took on Melbourne’s Royal Botanic Garden in the 2016 LIV Legal Fun Run & Walk.
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G+Tâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most competitive and determined cyclists endure the 200km Race for Change, in support of The Benevolent Society.
From Friday night bowling to the theatre, we love to mix it up socially with our teams.
Embracing diversity, we all wear purple with pride on Wear it Purple day in August. #PrideInDiversity
The annual kidsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Christmas Party is full of festive cheer and magic in our Sydney office.
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Clerkships
START TODAY. SHAPE TOMORROW. We understand that your clerkship is often your first opportunity to experience what it’s really like to practise in a corporate law environment — and that it’s a pivotal step in your career.
WHO ARE WE LOOKING FOR? If you are in your penultimate year of university study, you are eligible to apply for a clerkship in our Melbourne, Perth or Sydney offices. But while strong university results and academic achievements count, we’re also looking for people who align with our firm’s culture and values.
What will you experience? A G+T clerkship is both positive and challenging. You’ll work directly with partners and lawyers who will assist with your professional development and challenge you intellectually. While your main focus will be corporate work, everyone at G+T has the opportunity to assist on pro bono matters and participate in firm-wide activities.
Graduate intake Many of our clerks are welcomed into G+T as graduates upon completing their studies. Our graduates in Melbourne and Sydney complete a formal 18-month graduate program. In Perth, it is a 12-month program. During this time you will work directly with partners and lawyers and will be actively involved in matters relating to your practice area, and you’ll have the opportunity to work across at least two practice areas.
We’re not a prescriptive firm when it comes to our people; we invite individuality and diversity. We also hold ambition, creativity and entrepreneurial spirit in high regard. Our people are collaborative, passionate and dedicated — but most of all they enjoy what they do and never forget to have fun. We seek clerks and graduates who will complement our practice groups and don’t feel the need to take themselves too seriously.
As you progress through your rotations you will develop invaluable skills and knowledge and gain first-hand experience of our various practice groups. Understanding the mechanics of legal practice through research, drafting memos, attending court and meeting clients builds confidence in our clerks. You’ll have the chance to jump right in and immerse yourself in a leading corporate law practice. And we’ll encourage you to contribute ideas and your own fresh perspective. How will you learn? During the clerkship you’ll take part in our customised in-house training. The course covers topics such as research, analysis, drafting, developing technical skills, interpersonal effectiveness, teamwork, business development and client orientation. And of course, you’ll also gain invaluable learning on the job, on every matter you work on and from the talented people all around you.
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Native Title secondment The Aurora Project gives two Sydney-based clerks the opportunity to gain unique experience in working with a Native Title representative body during their winter semester break. This amazing initiative is fully funded by G+T and provides invaluable personal and professional skills for the future.
Your experience will be complemented by a comprehensive development program, including core legal skills, business development, knowledge management and pro bono work.
JAMES CAMPISI JOINED GILBERT + TOBIN AS A SUMMER CLERK IN 2014-15 AND WAS PART OF THE GRADUATE INTAKE OF 2016. HE SHARES HIS TIPS FOR ASPIRING LAWYERS.
“ What do you like most about working here (so far)? As a junior lawyer, you get to work on really interesting high-profile matters — I thrive on the responsibility I’m given. I also find the people I work with make coming to work really enjoyable, even when we’re all under pressure. Has anything surprised you about working here? G+T’s approach to change and innovation. They really see it as an exciting opportunity — it’s not just rhetoric. From investing in LegalVision to blockchain, we’re really embracing it. I also never would have expected to go to a coding workshop, but everything we do has this language behind it and understanding how it works is so valuable. What other opportunities are you taking advantage of? I’m hoping to undertake postgraduate study this year, and G+T is really supportive of that. I’ve also
been able to go to a few conferences within the Competition and Regulation group. Keeping up with industry changes is very important. What’s your top tip for clerks or graduates? Invest some time in researching the firms before submitting your application. Go to all the events and talk to as many people as possible so you can focus your efforts. You need to tailor your application to the firm you really want, and that takes time.
At G+T you are much closer to the action… I work very closely with the partner on matters and have direct contact with clients. That kind of experience is not typical, from what I hear, at other firms. James Campisi Lawyer
What do you wish you’d known before you applied? One thing I would do differently is network more and sooner, at university events. Meeting the firm’s partners and graduates can pave the way — I’m already working alongside lawyers from other firms that I first met during the clerkship process.
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YOUR FUTURE STARTS NOW WE HOPE YOU are now inspired to consider launching your career with Gilbert + Tobin — because your interest in us suggests you have the ambition, determination and entrepreneurial spirit it takes to succeed here and to meet the challenges of the future of law. With that in mind, there’s no ‘typical’ G+T clerk or graduate. We actively seek people from all types of backgrounds, and with very individual personalities. What we do have in common is what we hope you already possess. Intelligence — and a creative, confident (without arrogance) and thoughtful approach to solving complex problems. The ability to build positive working relationships within and between different teams. And above all, a sense of humour.
If you’re up for the stimulating challenge of the most interesting work assisting significant clients, then G+T is the place for you.
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Sydney clerkships At G+T’s new Barangaroo office, you’ll complete a ten-week placement, made up of two five-week rotations across the firm’s practice areas. You’ll also have the opportunity to contribute to the Pro Bono practice. During the placement, you’ll be given a project that requires research and collaboration with lawyers across the firm on a live issue — and you’ll present this to partners at the conclusion of your clerkship.
Melbourne and Perth clerkships If you’re in Melbourne or Perth, you will complete a seasonal clerkship over a number of weeks in either winter or summer as a taste of what’s to come in your legal career. During this time you can expect to work closely with lawyers and partners in one of our practice areas across a broad range of matters.
The G+T people featured in Be More 2017: Alex Kauye Alex Ryan Althea Carbon Amelia Noble Andrea Bennett Andrew Low Andrew Hii Angus McWhirter Angus Wood Arabella Tole Bella Buttons Ben Dennell Bridget Sutton Caitlin O'Neil Caryn Sandler Cassandra Bell Cheryl Tan Chris Dews Costas Condoleon Daniel Yim Danny Gilbert David Konstantopoulos Emily Carter Emily Almond Emma McLeod Erica Chan Finn Douglas Fiona Burke Frederik Brodie Hannah Opperman-Williams Harsimran Kaur Hiroshi Narushima Jackson Martin James Campisi James Anthony Jessica Hansford
Johnathon Geagea June Oscar Katarina Fong Kylie Raper Loren Leung Louisa Mulquiney Marion Russell Mark Gerus Matt Mackenzie Matthew Coe Melissa Fai Melissa Tan Michael Tong Michelle Ong Michelle Hannon Natalie Dalpadado Neeharika Maddula Olivia Nunn Peter Dombkins Rebecca Ching Rob Sinni Robert O'Grady Rohan Barmanray Sally Kirk Sarah Bradbury Sean Macdonald Shelley Burger Simon Burns Spiro Papadolias Subeta Vimalarajah Susan Young Tanja Mikulic Valerie Lim
SYDNEY Level 35, Tower Two International Towers Sydney 200 Barangaroo Avenue Barangaroo NSW 2000 +61 2 9263 4000 info@gtlaw.com.au MELBOURNE Level 22, 101 Collins Street Melbourne VIC 3000 +61 3 8656 3300 info@gtlaw.com.au PERTH Level 16, Brookfield Place Tower 2 123 St Georges Terrace Perth WA 6000 +61 8 9413 8400 info@gtlaw.com.au Connect with G+T Careers facebook.com/GTCareers
Gilbert + Tobin
@gtcareers @gt_careers gtlaw.com.au
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