Corporate/M&A

Baker McKenzie fields an enviable cross-border capability, frequently attracting blue-chip multinationals in addition to leading Australian public and private sector entities. Proficient at providing strategic advice on both the buy and sell sides of cross-border M&A transactions. Provides an integrated multidisciplinary service with noted proficiency in the energy, technology and healthcare sectors, and regularly praised for its attention to customer service. Regularly acts for state-based pension funds and traditional private equity firms on Asia-wide and US deals as well as on inbound investments. Notable clients include Dai-ichi Life Holdings, PointsBet Holdings and Siemens Mobility.

Headed by Mathieu Hanaut in Sydney, the firm's Pacific Islands desk has core expertise in foreign investments, joint ventures, equity raising and financing, with a particular focus on energy and natural resources transactions. Prominent on matters in French Polynesia, New Caledonia, Samoa and Vanuatu, it advises on tax, tenders and contractual issues and is noted for practitioners who speak fluent French and English.

Benjamin McLaughlin is based in Sydney and advises across a comprehensive range of corporate issues, embracing not only key transactional mandates but also regulatory and corporate governance questions. A client who includes "unparalleled knowledge of the law" and "a wonderful bedside manner" on a list of McLaughlin's enviable qualities, concludes by saying: "We felt so fortunate to have him by our side and he always made us feel like his most important client."

Derek Pocock acts extensively on corporate transactions in the energy and resources and technology spaces. Clients value him as "a very good, practical and commercial lawyer" whose signature strengths are "his accessibility and breadth of knowledge" and a readiness "to pick up the tools personally" to "meet tight deadlines." He is based in Brisbane.

Mathieu Hanaut handles a range of transactions across a variety of Pacific Islands jurisdictions. He is best known for his work advising clients in relation to French Polynesia and New Caledonia-related mandates. He acts for both public and private sector clients, regularly handling matters relating to the energy and resources, infrastructure and real estate sectors.

Richard Lustig heads the Baker McKenzie M&A team from the Melbourne office, taking personal charge of many key mandates and bringing to his work especially noted experience in the handling of cross-border transactions. He is described by one client as "exceptional, incredibly responsive and a great communicator," while another observes: "Richard's extensive experience enables him to offer quality advice in what are often difficult negotiating processes."