Energy & Natural Resources

Herbert Smith Freehills' substantial and impressive team offers specialist expertise in all practice sub-areas and is regularly engaged by blue-chip clients. The practice is further noted for its provision of entire life-cycle support to energy and resources projects and full engagement with transactional, operational and contentious issues, supported, where required, by relevant expertise from the firm's corporate and disputes practices. The group also incorporates a regional renewables team, with increasing experience in innovative clean energy projects. The firm's notable clients include Origin Energy, Santos and WestWind Energy.

"They give clear and practical advice and have always been a trusted adviser for us. They often show determination and tenacity in solving complex issues, driving a positive outcome."

"They are highly responsive and thoughtful."

Herbert Smith Freehills acted for IGO on its AUD1.26 billion acquisition of 100% of the shares in Western Areas via a scheme of arrangement.

Stuart Barrymore is based in Perth and enjoys a strong reputation in the market for his oil and gas-related expertise. He advises across gas sales, transportation, pipeline developments and transactional matters, and is particularly noted for his experience with LNG projects.

David Ryan is based in Sydney and advises across a range of transactional, commercial contracting and regulation mandates, often with regard to large energy infrastructure projects and developments. "David is an excellent lawyer and has experience in the energy industry that is second to none. He is very personable and responsive – great to work with."

Jay Leary handles the full range of mining sector matters, including transactions, operating and development agreements, dividing his time between the firm's Brisbane and Perth offices. "He is personable, calm, thinks very clearly and is very helpful when there are a lot of pressure and stress in running the process."

Robert Merrick is based in Perth and has an impressive track record of advising large oil and gas companies on asset acquisitions, divestments and project development issues. "Robert is the national practice leader in natural resources. He is very good."

Nick Baker is based in Melbourne and is known for his expertise advising on joint ventures and other large transactions in the utilities sector. "I've always enjoyed working with Nick. He's articulate and efficient in his style. He provides very high-quality advice." "Nick is an excellent and trusted adviser. He has a great strategic and commercial understanding of the energy industry and greatly adds value beyond the technical legal advice."