Today's in-house counsel are expected to do far more than provide legal advice. They must navigate evolving regulatory frameworks, manage legal and commercial risk, support strategic decision-making and help their organisations respond to rapid technological and societal change. This practical webinar series has been designed specifically for in-house legal professionals, delivering timely guidance on the issues shaping legal practice and corporate governance. Across eight focused sessions, gain practical insights into employment law developments, privacy reform and AI governance, ESG and climate reporting, financial literacy, regulatory investigations and corporate misconduct, as well as the ethical, commercial and operational challenges facing modern legal teams. Equip yourself with the knowledge, skills and confidence to manage risk, enhance organisational resilience and deliver greater strategic value to your business.
Description
Attend the complete series and earn 10 CPD units including:
5 units in Substantive Law
3 units in Professional Skills
1 unit in Ethics & Professional Responsibility
1 unit in Practice Management and Business Skills
This program is applicable to practitioners from all States & Territories
*The full series is running from Thursday, 17 September 2026 to Thursday, 26 November 2026
If you register for the full series as a live online product after the date of an individual session, you will be sent the recording for the sessions that have passed. Alternatively, you can register for individual sessions by following the links below.
Practical Guidance on Employment Law Updates
Thursday, 17 September 2026
In-house counsel are increasingly being called on to navigate complex employment issues while balancing legal risk, employee wellbeing and organisational objectives. This practical employment law update will equip you with practical strategies to deal with the latest insights on key legal developments, psychosocial safety obligations and emerging workplace risks. Minimise the risks in managing investigations, disciplinary processes and handling employee complaints, and effectively support HR and leadership teams through sensitive workforce matters. Ensure you and your organisation are prepared for the employment challenges ahead.
1.00pm to 2.00pm Practical Guidance on Employment Law Updates
- Recent employment law developments and emerging risks
- Psychosocial hazards and workplace compliance obligations
- Managing investigations, disciplinary issues and employee complaints
- Practical guidance for in-house counsel supporting HR and management teams
Presented by Sarah Ralph, EY Regional Law Leader, Oceania, Ernst & Young
Description
Attend and earn 1 CPD unit in Substantive Law
This program is applicable to practitioners from all States & Territories
Presenters
Sarah Ralph, EY Regional Law Leader, Oceania, Ernest & YoungSarah is a trusted adviser to her clients well known for her pragmatic and strategic advice. She advises in all areas of employment law including public sector employment, investigations, compliance and underpayments, discrimination and sexual harassment, executive employment and termination of employment. Sarah has a significant background in industrial relations including strategic planning, enterprise agreements and industrial disputes. Sarah also has an impressive record in employment litigation, successfully defending claims against employers in discrimination, general protection and unfair dismissal claims. Sarah has a Bachelor of laws and Master of Laws. She has previously worked in the manufacturing and government sectors and she brings her unique experience to the employment law advice she provides clients. Prior to joining EY she worked in a leading global law firm.
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Privacy Reform, AI and Data Governance
Thursday, 24 September 2026
Privacy regulation is evolving rapidly and your organisation is facing increasing pressure to adopt AI responsibly and strengthen your management of data. Navigating the intersection of privacy reform, AI governance and data management is critical to reducing risk, maintaining compliance and supporting innovation. Gain practical guidance on emerging legal obligations, governance frameworks and accountability measures, helping you manage the complex and fast-changing regulatory landscape.
Description
Attend and earn 1 CPD unit in Substantive Law
This program is applicable to practitioners from all States & Territories
Chair:
Bronwyn Furse, Partner, Thomson Geer; Recognised in Doyle's Guide for Privacy and Data Security Law, Intellectual Property Law and Franchise Law, Intellectual Property and in Technology, Media & Telecommunications Law
1.00pm to 2.00pm Privacy Reform, AI and Data Governance
- Key privacy reform developments and evolving compliance obligations
- Managing AI governance, accountability and emerging legal risks
- Building effective data governance frameworks across the organisation
- Practical strategies for in-house counsel overseeing privacy, data and AI compliance
Presented by Olga Ganopolsky, General Counsel – Privacy and Data, Macquarie Group
Presenters
Olga Ganopolsky, General Counsel – Privacy and Data, Macquarie Group
Olga Ganopolsky is Macquarie Group’s General Counsel - Privacy and Data and is versed in the subject of data protection with extensive experience in detailed privacy policy challenges, law reform and ongoing management of legal and strategic issues. Much of Olga’s work involves implementing new technologies and addressing privacy requirements in an increasingly complex co-regulatory and sometimes contentious environment. Most recently this has included work on implementations of GDPR and the reforms to Security of Critical Infrastructure Act and related regimes, artificial intelligence, CPS 234, Covid-19 related matters, the Consumer Data Right and addressing cross border issues considering the Schrems II Decision of the European Court of Justice and the newly updated Standard Contractual Clause as approved by the Commission.
Bronwyn Furse, Partner, Thomson Geer
Bronwyn Furse is a commercial lawyer with specialist expertise in the areas of privacy, data protection and cybersecurity, and intellectual property amongst others. Her practice traverses public and private industry sectors including financial services, government, health, health tech and other technology providers, manufacturing, automotive, higher education, health, manufacturing, energy and resources, from start-ups through to multinational groups. Working with multinational groups means Bronwyn's work involves complex cross border work, and understanding of relationships between various local and offshore privacy regimes. In relation to privacy, data protection and cybersecurity she routinely provides advisory services, manages data breaches, complaints and investigations, assists with contractual negotiations, develops compliance frameworks, undertakes audits, conducts privacy impact assessments, and delivers tailored training. Bronwyn is on the Australia and New Zealand advisory board for the International Association of Privacy Professionals, as well as the Licensing Executives Society. She is routinely recognised by her peers as one of the Best Lawyers in Australia in the areas of Privacy and Data Security Law, Intellectual Property Law and Franchise Law, and in Doyle’s Guide as a recommended lawyer in the areas of Intellectual Property and in Technology, Media & Telecommunications Law.
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Recognising and Dealing with Legal and Commercial Risk
Thursday, 22 October 2026
As an in-house counsel you are expected to advise on risk every day, but the greatest challenge is often balancing legal exposure against commercial objectives. This practical session will help you identify, assess and respond to legal and commercial risks in a way that supports decision-making and business outcomes. Explore risk and reward trade-offs, understand the legal environment in which clients operate, and gain practical tools for managing risk while protecting both the organisation and those responsible for its governance and oversight.
Description
Attend and earn 1 CPD unit in Professional Skills
This program is applicable to practitioners from all States & Territories
Professional Skills
1.00pm to 2.00pm Recognising and Dealing with Legal and Commercial Risk
- Risk: What is it?
- Legal environment of risk for clients
- Risk return trade off
- How to deal with risk
- Possible tools to use in deal with striking the balance of legal and commercial risk and reward
- Personal risks of advisors and officer’s
Presented by Steven Brown, Chairman, Ettienne Lawyers; Steven has lectured at UTS in Corporations and Securities Law and Macquarie University in Banking Law Course; Lecturer, College of Law Masters of Law in commercial drafting and business structuring
Presenters
Steven Brown, Chairman, Etienne LawyersSteven Brown is highly experienced lawyer with an extensive knowledge in all aspects of commercial law, with an intimate knowledge of the Corporations Law and the Australian Securities Exchange business and listing rules, being involved in corporate structuring, compliance, corporate takeovers, company floats, the preparation of prospectuses, employee share schemes and advising on directors' duties, and insolvency and securities law and practice. Steven currently lectures: in the Masters of Banking Law Course conducted by Macquarie University; in the Master of Finance for FINSIA in the areas of securities and insolvency and contract law and law, regulation and ethics; and for the Property Investors Association of Australia in security law and practice. Steven has published a number of articles on commercial subjects. He has lectured for the Australian Institute of Company Directors from 1989-2008, lectured in the Master and Doctorate courses at UTS in corporations, finance and securities law from 1989-1995, and is currently lecturing in the College of Law Masters course in commercial drafting and business structuring.
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Ethics, Professional Skills and Practice Management for In-House Counsel
Thursday, 29 October 2026
In-house counsel must navigate a complex mix of ethical responsibilities, commercial pressures and rapid technological change. Strengthen your ability to identify and manage risk, maintain professional independence and deliver strategic value to your organisation. Explore common ethical dilemmas and professional responsibility issues, develop stronger contract drafting and negotiation skills through a focus on indemnities and risk allocation, and gain insight into how AI and legal function transformation are reshaping the delivery of legal services. Leave with practical tools and strategies to help you address today's challenges and prepare for tomorrow's opportunities.
Ethics & Professional Responsibility
2.00pm to 3.00pm Ethical Dilemmas You May Face as In-House Counsel
- Managing conflicts of interest
- Dealing with difficult, unethical or high-pressure stakeholders while maintaining professional independence
- Understanding when to escalate concerns, seek advice or step back from a matter
- Recognising ethical issues before they become professional conduct problems
Presented by Linden Barnes, Senior Ethics Solicitor, The Law Society of New South Wales
Professional Skills
3.00pm to 4.00pm Practical Contract Drafting: Indemnities and Risk Allocation
- Draft indemnity clauses that appropriately allocate risk and avoid unintended liability exposure
- Assess whether contractual risk allocation aligns with your organisation's insurance arrangements and risk appetite
- Negotiate key indemnity, limitation of liability and risk allocation provisions with greater confidence
- Identify common drafting pitfalls and apply practical strategies to better protect your organisation's interests
Presented by Daniel Gosewisch, Legal Practice Director, NPAA Law & Consultant, Work Pac
Practice Management and Business Skills
4.15pm to 5.15pm Legal Function Transformation and AI for In-House Counsel
Presented by Matthew Morosin, Australia and Asia Pacific Lead, Deloitte
4.00pm to 4.15pm Break
Description
Attend and earn 3 CPD units including:
1 unit in Professional Skills
1 unit in Ethics & Professional Responsibility
1 unit in Practice Management and Business Skills
This program is applicable to practitioners from all States & Territories
Presenters
Matthew Morosin, Australia and Asia Pacific Lead, DeloitteMatt leads Deloitte’s Australian and Asia Pacific Legal Management Consulting and Legal Managed Services practice. Matt is passionate about transforming and optimising the delivery of legal services, including through process improvement, utilising technology, right sourcing and harnessing the power of data to drive strategic decision making. He is also a Teaching Fellow at the College of Law, delivering the Legal Operations unit as part of the Masters of Legal Business.
Daniel Gosewisch, Legal Practice Director, NPAA Law & Consultant, Work Pac
Daniel Gosewisch has spent 20 years in-house working across government, resources, retail, and general corporate sectors. He holds degrees in Law and Environmental Science from Griffith University, a Master of Laws from Queensland University of Technology, and is a Fellow of the Governance Institute. He joined WorkPac as General Counsel in May 2022 and also acts as Company Secretary. Daniel advises on commercial and legal matters across the labour hire, recruitment, training and services businesses operated by WorkPac. He also publishes regularly on associated legal topics (including as editor of lawofcontract.com.au) and undertakes pro bono work privately.
Linden Barnes, Senior Ethics Solicitor, The Law Society of New South Wales
Linden has been at the Law Society of NSW as an ethics solicitor for past sixteen years. Her role includes guidance to solicitors all over the state, presentations, articles, and providing ethics education by order of regulators. She also assists the Law Society’s Ethics and Costs Committees, along with its Professional Conduct Advisory Panel. Previously, Linden worked in-house at financial institutions, and also in insurance litigation.
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ESG: Managing Risk, Compliance and Corporate Governance
Thursday, 5 November 2026
ESG obligations are no longer confined to sustainability teams. In-house counsel are increasingly expected to advise on governance, climate reporting, disclosure obligations and the commercial implications of ESG across the organisation. This practical session will help you navigate the evolving regulatory landscape, manage greenwashing and disclosure risks, and provide effective advice to boards and senior leaders on ESG-related obligations. Explore how ESG considerations are shaping contracts, supply chain management, mergers and acquisitions, and broader business operations, and gain practical insights to help your organisation manage risk while responding to growing stakeholder and regulatory expectations.
Description
Attend and earn 1 CPD unit in Substantive Law
This program is applicable to practitioners from all States & Territories
Chair:
Linda Martin, General Counsel, REMONDIS Australia Pty Ltd
1.00pm to 2.00pm ESG: Managing Risk, Compliance and Corporate Governance
- Exploring current and emerging legislation and regulation
- Governance and director duty obligations, advising boards and managing ESG risks
- Managing ESG risks including greenwashing and disclosure obligations
- ESG from a commercial lens with contracts, supply chain due diligence, mergers and acquisitions and business operations
Presented by Emma Peters, Director, Cowell Clarke; ESG specialist lawyer
Presenters
Linda Martin, General Counsel, REMONDIS Australia Pty Ltd
Linda is the General Counsel of REMONDIS Australia Pty Limited, a leading international and Australian waste, recycling, water and environmental services company. Prior to that, she held senior legal roles in property development, asset management and corporate governance with a top tier law firm and in-house with ASX listed Sydney Airport Corporation Ltd, Optus, Stockland and Colonial First State Global Asset Management. Linda and her legal team specialise in contract delivery and risk management across REMONDIS’ NSW, ACT, VIC, QLD and WA waste and water businesses, and liaise with regulators and local councils in relation to existing operations and new projects. REMONDIS is also is a leading innovator in the circular economy shift from landfills to EfW facilities in Australia and in navigating the regulatory regime to deliver bespoke EfW build and operational contracts.
Emma Peters, Director, Cowell Clarke
Emma Peters stands out as a visionary ESG specialist lawyer, whose expertise and innovative approaches make her an invaluable asset to businesses navigating the evolving landscape of corporate responsibility and compliance. Her blend of practical experience and deep legal acumen positions her as a leader in her field, dedicated to fostering responsible and sustainable business practices across the globe Emma’s speciality relates to compliance and strategy pertaining to environment, social and governance matters with particular expertise regarding modern slavery compliance, bribery and corruption, whistleblowing and sustainability. She dedicates her practice to advising entities on implementing systems and process including policies procedures and conducting investigations. She has also developed an online platform to facilitate entities undertaking supply chain due diligence. Emma also advises on general commercial matters including contractual negotiations and tender reviews With experience as in-house legal counsel, Emma has a real-world understanding of businesses operating on a global scale and the regulatory, compliance and legal framework associated with international operations Emma is regularly sought out to present on the evolving ESG landscape in Australia and Asia Pacific region.
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Managing Regulatory Investigations, Whistleblower Complaints and Corporate Misconduct
Thursday, 12 November 2026
When a regulator comes calling or a whistleblower complaint lands, you need to know what to do immediately, what to protect and when to escalate. Gain the tools to identify misconduct and compliance risks early, respond to ASIC and ACCC interest with confidence, protect privilege and guide directors, executives and internal teams through high-stakes investigations. Leave with a clearer framework for managing regulatory pressure, reducing personal and organisational exposure, and providing calm, strategic advice when the stakes are high.
1.00pm to 2.00pm Managing Regulatory Investigations, Whistleblower Complaints and Corporate Misconduct
- ASIC and ACCC enforcement trends and recent developments
- Common compliance failures and misconduct risks
- Director and executive liability in regulatory investigations
- Responding to investigations and protecting privilege
Presented by Peter Travis, Barrister and Mediator, Gibbs Chambers
Description
Attend and earn 1 CPD unit in Substantive Law
This program is applicable to practitioners from all States & Territories
Presenters
Peter Travis, Barrister and Mediator, Gibbs ChambersPeter Travis is a Queensland barrister, mediator and California attorney who specialises in commercial disputes. He represents clients before all Australian courts and has a national mediation practice specialising in resolving civil disputes across a broad range of practice areas. Before joining the Queensland Bar in 2008, Peter was employed in the media division of a national firm of solicitors, and became a solicitor of the Supreme Court of New South Wales. He later joined the California Bar and practised as a trial attorney in Los Angeles. In Los Angeles, Peter represented media clients in complex First Amendment, intellectual property and commercial litigation.
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Financial Literacy for In-House Counsel: Beyond the Financial Statements
Thursday, 19 November 2026
Strong financial literacy enables in-house counsel to move beyond identifying legal risks and become trusted commercial advisers. Gain practical skills to interpret the financial information that drives executive and board decision-making, recognise early warning signs of financial stress, and assess the commercial implications of contracts, transactions and strategic initiatives. Learn how to critically analyse budgets, forecasts and management reports, ask more informed questions of finance teams, and deliver advice that is commercially focused, strategically aligned and better positioned to support business objectives.
Professional Skills
1.00pm to 2.00pm Financial Literacy for In-House Counsel: Beyond the Financial Statements
Building on the fundamentals, this advanced session explores how in-house lawyers can use financial information to identify risks, support decision-making and provide more commercially focused advice. Moving beyond balance sheets and profit and loss statements, delegates will learn how to interrogate financial information, spot warning signs and better understand the commercial realities driving executive and board decisions.
- Identify financial warning signs and assess indicators of financial distress, solvency concerns and business risk
- Interpret cash flow forecasts, budgets and management reports to better understand commercial decision-making
- Use of cash versus non-cash financial information and key instances where commonly interchanged
- Evaluate the financial implications of contracts, transactions and strategic business initiatives
- Ask the right questions of finance teams, executives and boards to provide more commercially focused legal advice
Presented by Ashley Miller, Partner, Grant Thornton
Description
Attend and earn 1 CPD unit in Professional Skills
This program is applicable to practitioners from all States & Territories
Presenters
Ashley Miller, Partner, Grant ThorntonAshley is a Financial Advisory Partner with over 20 years of experience advising both local and international clients on a wide range of transaction types, spanning the mid-market and top-end sectors. His unique blend of transaction and industry experience, includes five years of recent industry involvement and secondments in Asia, Europe and the US, and is what sets him apart from other advisors. Ashley’s expertise spans across a variety of industries, with a particular focus on agriculture, consumer products, food and beverages, health, industrial products and services, Japanese services, and manufacturing. Part of his experience includes acting as an investigating accountant and supporting companies with several ASX IPOs. Additionally, he is particularly adept at helping clients with sales and purchase agreement services, completion processes, and dispute resolution. He has also worked on a number of M&A-related dispute matters, including one of Australia’s largest corporate settlements.
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Corporate Governance, Directors' Duties and Personal Liability
Thursday, 26 November 2026
Directors are under increasing scrutiny and senior executives and in-house counsel are not far behind. As expectations around governance, oversight and accountability continue to rise, legal teams need to be ready to advise clearly on directors’ duties, personal liability and the practical steps needed to reduce risk. Gain a firm, practical understanding of where exposure can arise, how to guide boards and senior executives with confidence and what you can do to strengthen governance before problems escalate. Gain practical insights to help you protect the organisation, support better decision-making and manage your own risk as a trusted in-house adviser.
Description
Attend and earn 1 CPD unit in Substantive Law
This program is applicable to practitioners from all States & Territories
1.00pm to 2.00pm Corporate Governance, Directors' Duties and Personal Liability
Register for this session only
