Construction - Australia
What the Team is Known For
King & Wood Mallesons' market-leading group is able to support large projects from inception and financing to delivery. The team is particularly notable for its project finance practice serving a client roster of construction consortiums, banks, sponsors and borrowers. It is also instructed on headline transport, energy and sports infrastructure programmes. King & Wood Mallesons demonstrates further capability in advising on construction disputes and complex contractor arbitration.
Strengths
"The KWM team is technically and commercially excellent."
"King & Wood Mallesons has a broad team with large bench of match-fit partners and deep teams of associates and lawyers. It also has strong relationships with lenders and a pragmatic approach."
Work Highlights
KWM advised AirTrunk in obtaining multi-currency, sustainability-linked debt financing of AUD4.6 billions to refinance AirTrunk’s existing debt facilities.
KWM advised WSO Co on delivery of the expansion of the M7 Motorway and the design and construction for the State of Elizabeth Drive and M12 Motorway interchange.
Notable Practitioners
Peter Pether maintains a renowned disputes practice from the firm's Sydney office, handling major construction cases before the Supreme Courts of various states, as well as international arbitration proceedings. "Peter is highly regarded by his peers and very much sought out as the advisor you want on your side."
Chris Mitchell acts extensively on major infrastructure projects in the freight and public transportation sector and is particularly valued for his expertise in front-end construction issues and understanding of government operations. He is based in the firm's Sydney office. "Chris is always available to talk, and it always comes across that he cares about our business. Chris is able to consider complex matters and help provide commercial solutions." "Chris' advice is very often brilliant as it considers possible solutions from all angles. Chris brings fresh perspectives to difficult issues and always has practical and commercial options."
Claire Rogers is based in Sydney and recognised for her project finance practice, which is largely focussed on major projects in the social infrastructure and energy sectors. "Claire has an excellent legal mind and fantastic commercial insight."
Hamish Macpherson is a Sydney-based lawyer who has handled significant contentious issues arising from projects in the transportation, energy and mining sectors. "Hamish is an outstanding disputes lawyer. His recommendations are savvy and take into account the commercial realities and practicalities, and government priorities." "Hamish's appreciation of the broader commercial context meant that he was able to achieve results in extremely difficult circumstances."
Jeff Clark is based in Melbourne and advises widely on financing and refinancing mandates pertaining to PPPs and projects in the industrial and social infrastructure spaces, as well as in the renewable energy sector.
Joanne Crew is based in Melbourne and acts for financiers and investors on projects and PPP bids in a variety of sectors, including those of urban development and energy.
Mark Upfold advises widely on project finance matters and transactions concerning the development and operation of strategic infrastructure. He is based in Sydney. "Mark is very helpful. He is distinctive for his commercial awareness beyond law in his advice."
Scott Budd is highly sought after for his advice, both on the development of large-scale construction projects and on high-stakes disputes arising from such projects. "Scott understands the commercial drivers of a deal and works really hard to help get the deal done whilst helping to mitigate the key legal risks."