8:00 AM - 5:00 PM | Registration

9:00 AM - 9:45 AM | Opening Keynote | Maintaining a Strong Focus on Enforcing the Law with ASIC Deputy Chair, Sarah Court

Central to ASIC’s mission to support a fair, strong and efficient financial system for all Australians is enforcement of the law. In 2023, the Australian Securities & Investments Commission (ASIC) made a significant shift in how it approaches this task by signalling to the community and other stakeholders its enforcement priorities for the coming year.  Join ASIC Deputy Chair, Sarah Court for an in-depth conversation about ASIC’s 2023 Enforcement Priorities and what’s already been achieved.

Sarah Court
ASIC Deputy Chair

9:50 AM - 10:20 AM | Partner Keynote | Risk, Responsibility and Reputation – Critical Lessons for GCs from Recent High Profile Proceedings

When it comes to disclosure and oversight, the spotlight on GCs has never been greater. ASIC’s prosecution of directors and officers of The Star Entertainment Group should not be viewed as a one off, and is indicative of their approach towards enforcing breaches of directors’ and officers’ duties, including those of GCs. This session unpacks the critical governance lessons for GCs in the wake of these and other proceedings and the steps that need to be taken to mitigate future risk.

Supported by: Corrs

10:20 AM - 11:05 AM | Outlook Panel | The Path Ahead: Navigating the Evolving Regulatory & Enforcement Landscape

A single change or even rumored upcoming changes in regulation can affect numerous aspects of a business, requiring them to transform their current operations and shift practices in order to comply. In a fast-paced, complex and uncertain world, the Australian legal industry continues to face a number of challenges in managing the impact of recent regulatory changes. Join this session as the esteemed panel explores the trends and priorities of the largest regulatory agencies, and offers insights into how to stay protected and out of the firing line of enforcement activities.

Supported by: Gilbert & Tobin

11:35 AM - 11:50 AM | Securing a Strategic CLM Solution: How to Navigate the Market & Build a Business Case

Today, over 60% of corporate legal departments still use manual processes to manage agreements. Meanwhile, three quarters of today’s global executives acknowledge that a contract lifecycle management (CLM) solution - powered by AI - can be a critical part of any legal team. It’s essential to having immediate and continuous access to contracts and related documents, automated workflows, and advanced analysis.

• How to assess CLM solutions in the market
• How to define your CLM needs
• How to build a business case

Supported by: ContractPodAi

11:50 AM - 12:35 PM | Strategy Panel | The Great Realignment: Structuring Your Legal Department to Thrive in an Uncertain Climate

As primary problem solvers for many corporate issues, legal departments are forced to constantly adapt to changing business priorities and deliver high-quality service more efficiently.  Having the right structure for your team can help you focus on the work of greatest strategic importance, avoid becoming captive to low-value work, enable your team to work at a sustainable pace, and enhance your sense of purpose and culture. Join this session as expert panelists discuss ways to realign your legal team structure to leverage efficiencies and facilitate business growth in the current economic environment.

Supported by: Ethika Group

1:50 PM - 2:35 PM | ESG Panel | Leveling Up: Successfully Integrating ESG into your Risk Framework

ESG is multifaceted and continues to be an important priority for legal departments, so many in-house counsels are trying to find their way to shape the foundation of a successful ESG program. Effectively building ESG considerations into your strategy and risk management framework will help support better financial performance and long-term business success. Attend this session to discover the value of involving ESG into your risk appetite, learn how to influence and hold decision-makers accountable for ESG goals, and ensure your business is prepared for the challenges ahead involving ESG regulations and consumer expectations.

Supported by: McCullough Robertson

2:40 PM - 2:55 PM | Current Trends in Disputes GCs Should Know About

In this session, leading disputes lawyer, Trevor Withane will highlight the key trends in disputes in 2023 and beyond. This session is designed to give GCs and in-house counsel an insight into the key risks which their organisations need to be aware of, with some practical tips to address these risks.

Supported by: Ironbridge Legal

3:00 PM - 3:15 PM | Technology Leading Legal Industry Transformation

Although legal technology is developing rapidly, is there a sufficient focus on outcomes as opposed to process? Why do lawyers so often go into reactive mode rather than proactively respond to their client’s needs?

To respond rather than react would mean asking a client what success looks like for them and what risks they are prepared to consider.  If lawyers always ask these questions, they will enjoy stronger relationships and legal spend confidence because legal costs will be aligned to agreed strategic outcomes. Technology can facilitate this critical mindset and behavioural shift to achieve collaboration on strategy and transparent/accountable legal costs.

This session will explore how technology can facilitate behavioural change that will transform the legal industry.

Supported by: AllyOne

3:30 PM - 4:15 PM | Data Privacy & Security Panel | Don’t Be the Next Headline! Staying Ahead of the Next Data Breach & The New World of Privacy Laws

In light of the significant data breaches seen in Australia recently, it is more important now than ever before that GCs take the right steps to avoid data incidents and extra scrutiny. With breaches becoming more frequent, GCs are expected to lead the way in data governance and retention, as well as safeguarding their organisations from falling into cybersecurity traps. During this session, our expert panelists will share best practices and resources to support in house counsel to drive compliance and prepare for new amendments to privacy laws that are coming into effect.

Supported by: Corrs

4:15 PM - 5:00 PM | Afternoon Keynote - Protecting Your Legal Headspace: Managing Through Blurred Boundaries

In the fast-paced and ever-evolving legal landscape it is common for in-house counsel leaders to wear multiple hats within a company, which creates numerous challenges that can blur the boundaries of their roles and responsibilities. To effectively navigate these complexities, it is crucial to prevent burnout and maintain a balance between all of your competing priorities, whether that be work or life-related. Join us for an insightful session where we explore actionable strategies and best practices that aim to equip legal professionals with the necessary tools to maintain clarity, well-being, and resilience in their roles.

5:00 PM - 6:00 PM | Networking Drinks Reception