Explore the latest developments in maritime law as discuss the current key topics including enforcing in rem claims by the judicial sale of a ship, new cybersecurity laws impacting maritime operations, the Convention on Limitation of Liability for Maritime Claims and collisions at sea. You have a unique opportunity to connect with experts and enhance your understanding of critical legal issues in the maritime sector.

Presenters

Richard Donaldson, General Counsel, Pilbara Ports Authority
Richard Donaldson is an experienced legal professional specialising in information technology, outsourcing, intellectual property, privacy, and corporate law. As General Counsel to the Pilbara Ports Authority, he oversees the legal function and all associated services. Previously, he served as Senior Legal Counsel for Computer Sciences Corporation, supporting various industry sectors in Western Australia. Richard has extensive private practice experience with leading firms like Ashurst and Jones Day, and has also worked for the Australian Government on policy and legislation. He holds law degrees from several institutions, including The University of Melbourne and The University of San Diego, and has completed advanced management programs at Wharton Business School.


Gregory Nell SC, New Chambers
Gregory Nell SC has been a prominent figure at the New South Wales Bar since 1991, specialising in Admiralty and Maritime Law. Recognised as “a giant of the Maritime Bar” and one of the region's leading shipping practitioners, he has appeared in many landmark cases in Australia. Gregory holds degrees in Economics and Law from Sydney University, as well as a Master of Laws, and has extensive experience in insurance law and private international law. He has served as a Senior Fellow at the University of Melbourne and has taught maritime law at various institutions. Currently, he is the president of the Anglo Australasian Lawyers Society and chairs the Australian Maritime and Transportation Arbitration Commission.


Drew James, Lawyer, Aus Ship Lawyers & Consultants
Drew James has more than 25 years of experience as a Shipping Solicitor working in London, Sydney and Singapore. He first qualified as a Solicitor in Australia in 1983 and has degrees in Law and commerce plus a Master’s Degree in Law. He is a Fellow of the Institute of Arbitrators and of the Singapore Institute of Arbitrators. He has been named twice in the “Euromoney Guide to the Best of the Best” as one of the world’s top 25 Shipping Lawyers.


Nic Van Der Reyden, Partner, HWL Ebsworth Lawyers
With over 20 years’ experience, Nic specialises in shipping and commercial litigation and dispute resolution. Nic’s clients include shipowners, charterers, traders, logistics and mining companies and their insurers including P&I and H&M.


Ashwin Nair, Director, Nair Legal
Ashwin practice covers four main areas: marine casualty management, commercial disputes, commercial transactions and regulatory advice, particularly in the maritime and export sectors. His clients include shipowners and operators operating in various sectors, charterers, P&I Clubs and other insurers, port operators, and other marine services providers. He is consistently ranked in the leading legal guides, including most recently by Chambers Asia-Pacific for Shipping in 2025, and among the leading Australian Admiralty and Maritime Lawyers by Doyle’s Guide in 2025.