Public Law – Issue 26

It is my pleasure, as guest editor, to welcome you to the final edition of Public Law for 2025. It's a year that has seen  remarkable transformation, challenge, and innovation across the public sector. 

As 2025 draws to a close, I’ve been reflecting on my first year as Chief Executive Partner of Hall & Wilcox and the many changes I have guided the firm through in this short time. Our people and our clients are at the centre of every decision we make about the firm, be it recruitment, investing in technology and process improvement, making time to connect with each other and importantly, how we can provide the best value and service to continue delivering work that people at all levels of the organisation can be proud of. 

One example that comes to mind from earlier in the year occurred at our annual Partners’ conference. There was a clear message from clients that our BD people should be involved in the interface with clients in order to listen to them and help us to cultivate and strengthen our relationships. Having taken that advice by enhancing the ways our people contribute, I was delighted to share in the achievement of Natalie Demir’s industry award last month where she received Marketing & Communications Professional of the Year. 

The sense of pride and achievement is a common thread throughout this edition. We begin with an uplifting conversation with Teresa Tjia, CEO of VTAC, whose leadership is grounded in access, fairness and lifelong learning. Teresa shares how modern systems, strong equity initiatives and partnerships can open doors for learners of all ages.

During my many office visits across the country, we also celebrated the tenth anniversary of our Emerging Artists Program in Brisbane. This event showcases the creativity and resilience of local artists, and reinforces the importance of supporting communities beyond the legal sphere.

Because traditions and time-out matter, we round out this edition with holiday recommendations, book reviews, and a classic family recipe that I look forward to trying over the break. 

Thank you to our authors and contributors who brought this edition to life. As you head into the holidays, I hope you find moments of quiet peace and that you return refreshed for the year ahead.

By Graydon Dowd, Chief Executive Partner

Holiday packing list: Beach towel, sun hat, G+T ingredients and a lot of books!

My beach bag is always heavy with paperbacks. I love reading a physical book, watching the pages diminish, frantically flipping through the last nail-biting scenes of a thriller, or savouring the happily ever after of a romance.

Page-turning crime novels and thrillers are high on my holiday reading list and this year there's a bumper crop of titles to choose from. Three of my favourite authors have new releases that are going straight to the top of my pile - Legacy by Chris Hammer, Last One Out by Jane Harper and Mischance Creek by Garry Disher.

For thrillers, I'm choosing Unfinished Business by Shankari Chandran

and The Peak by Sam Guthrie, both globe-trotting page-turners that deal with diplomatic intrigue, espionage and raise questions about power and politics. I read Louise Penny's The Grey Wolf last summer, and I'm eagerly looking forward to continuing the story in The Black Wolf.

For Australian fiction, some intriguing titles that have caught my eye include Seed by Bri Lee (I enjoyed her previous novel, The Work), The Worst Thing I've Ever Done by Clare Stephens, The Transformations by Andrew Pippos and A Great Act of Love by Heather Rose.

This summer, I'm keeping my reading mostly light, so the only non-fiction on my list is Plain Life: on thinking, feeling and deciding by Antonia Pont - which feels very apt for these exhausting, troubled times. For further lightness, I'm packing some romance and romantasy novels too: An Academic Affair by Jodi McAlister, Brimstone by Callie Hart (read book 1 Quicksilver first) and Arcana Academy by Elise Kova.

Two brilliant books I've already read, and I highly recommend adding to your list: the literary thriller Wild Dark Shore by Charlotte McConaghy and crime novel Dust by Michael Brissenden.

1. Legacy
2. Seed
3. Wild Dark Shore
4. Unfinished Business
5. Brimstone

Melinda Woledge
Senior Marketing & Communications Manager

Education opens doors, and for Teresa Tjia, CEO of the Victorian Tertiary Admissions Centre (VTAC), it's about making sure those doors are open to everyone. Since taking the helm as VTAC's first CEO, Teresa has guided the organisation through transformative change: modernising systems, strengthening equity initiatives, and forging partnerships that extend far beyond traditional boundaries.

Teresa's leadership reflects a deep commitment to access, fairness, and lifelong learning. In this conversation, she shares her thoughts on what's next for VTAC, why collaboration matters, and how lifelong learning is shaping the future of education.

As VTAC's inaugural CEO, you've led VTAC through a period of significant change. What guiding principles shape your leadership approach in a public-facing service?

Education has been at the heart of my career. For me, education is about self-discovery, growth, and creating socio-economic opportunities. It's about opening doors and empowering people, whether they're students or colleagues, to make choices about how they want to contribute.

My leadership style reflects that: I focus on empowerment and creating opportunities for growth. I want people to feel confident in making decisions that shape their careers.

One of my core values is choice, having the information and confidence to make decisions, and the opportunity to bring your authentic self to the organisation. In public-facing, not-for-profit work, what you do impacts lives, so you need to bring your whole self to the role.

VTAC supports learners of all ages and backgrounds. How do you balance operational efficiency with equity and access in your strategic planning?

It's always a balancing act: compliance, customer service, efficiency, and effectiveness. Our customers are diverse, so we focus on delivering personalised, targeted services while creating value for stakeholders. We prioritise what's most impactful and leverage technology to make services more efficient, without losing the human touch. Technology should smooth processes, but fairness and equity must remain central. Algorithms can support us, but they can never replace human connection.

Equity schemes and scholarships such as the SEAS play a critical role in compensating for educational disadvantage. How has VTAC evolved its approach in recent years?

SEAS isn't just about educational access; it considers all aspects that affect a student's life. We look at the last two to three years of schooling.

COVID was a turning point. We had to identify additional impacts and ensure fairness across different groups. Despite extensive promotion, through seminars and school outreach, the students who need SEAS most often don't realise it applies to them. We continue to focus on targeted support, helping students articulate how disadvantage has affected their education.

We also consider mental health, neurodiversity, domestic violence and socio-economic factors. It's about making sure these students feel confident to complete Year 12 and pursue their next steps.

VTAC has made strides in digital transformation. What technologies or platforms have been most impactful?

It's not about the technology itself, it's about how we use it. The user must be at the centre of digital transformation. Technology should enable and support, not dictate.

We focus on configuring systems to deliver the service transformation we need. That includes responsible, ethical use of AI, always human-centred, and agility in implementation.

VTAC partners with institutions across Australia. How do these collaborations influence your organisation?

Partnerships are essential. VTAC is part of a national admissions ecosystem; students from any state can apply to institutions across Australia and New Zealand. We work with institutions, tertiary admission centres, curriculum authorities, and research organisations to improve pathways.

We are part of the ARC Linkage grant looking at whole-student admissions initiatives and also collaborate with groups like Orygen to support young people facing mental health challenges, helping them access education and employment opportunities.

Partnerships aren't just traditional; they include innovative organisations that share our vision for lifelong learning. VTAC is the gateway between schools, tertiary education, government, and the community. We advise students, respond to workforce needs, and help people upskill. Collaboration is at the heart of everything we do.

What are you most excited about for the coming year?

We're launching our strategic plan, 'VTAC - Toward 2030'. It builds on organisational, governance and service transformations, including digital innovation. Our vision is to enable and support all learners to find their own path with confidence.

Favourite place to take visitors in Melbourne?

Art galleries and food! If you have time, take a day trip: Bendigo for the Great Stupa and art gallery, or Ballarat for gardens, galleries, second-hand shops, and local gin.

Do you collect anything?

Art pieces, small works like pottery. I'm inspired by artists and love collecting two or three pieces from each artist.

Recently our Melbourne office proudly hosted the Equitable Briefing Networking Event reaffirming our commitment to the Law Council of Australia’s National Equitable Briefing Policy – an initiative driving cultural change in the legal profession and addressing the pay gap and underrepresentation of women barristers. 

The evening was a resounding success, with attendees from across the Victorian Bar and industry creating a vibrant atmosphere of connection. A special highlight was Art Curator at St Vincent’s Hospital Monique Silk's engaging presentation on the pivotal impacts of art in hospitals (on patient, visitor and staff wellbeing and recovery), which sparked thoughtful conversations, and inspiring yet humbling perspectives.

Our Melbourne Emerging Artist Exhibition provided a fitting backdrop for the event.

It was a pleasure to connect in person at our recent luncheon seminar for Victorian Government decision-makers. Opportunities like this are rare, and our team left energised by the thoughtful discussion and the valuable insights shared.

While we touched on some of the key challenges surrounding AI integration, it’s clear there is much still to explore. AI remains one of the most compelling topics shaping public law and governance today, and we are keen to continue this conversation.

We look forward to building on these discussions and working together to navigate the opportunities and complexities that AI presents.

AI is full of promise but how it’s introduced matters just as much as what it delivers.

Alison Baker reminded us that successful integration starts with people, to implement AI safely and thoughtfully. John Gray took us behind the scenes of procurement, explaining why traditional tech contracts often fall short for AI. From performance guarantees to IP and liability risks, it’s clear that negotiating with a fresh mindset is essential.

And when it comes to privacy? Zeng He shared that it’s not just about compliance, it’s about collaboration. He unpacked why secrecy provisions and privacy laws aren’t interchangeable, why data quality matters, and why legal, tech, and assurance teams need to work together from day one.

AI is reshaping government, and we’re excited to keep exploring these challenges and opportunities with you.

Art connects communities and for 10 years, our Brisbane office has proudly championed that connection through the Art Exhibition and Acquisition Program. A national Hall & Wilcox initiative, the program supports emerging Australian artists by showcasing their work in 

our offices across the country. This platform enables local artists to receive the recognition and profile their work deserves. 

Since 2014, we have helped early-career artists share their work, connect with new audiences, and grow their business. 

The partnerships reflect our belief that creativity inspires connection and the importance of supporting local communities by nurturing the next generation of artists.

This year’s exhibition features a diverse collection from some of Queensland’s most promising new artists. Each piece offers unique perspectives, materials, and stories that enrich the local cultural landscape. With all artworks available for purchase, 100 per cent of proceeds go directly to the artists, helping them continue to create and thrive.

Meet our Brisbane artists

Megan Campbell – award-winning ceramicist inspired by outback Queensland’s vast landscapes. Using Australian clays and natural stains, she creates hand-built forms that celebrate imperfection, tonal variation and resilient character of the land.

Caitlin Kearney – portrait artist who explores themes of youth, connection and melancholy. Her vivid, contrasting colours transform everyday scenes into moments of heightened emotion and intensity. 

Tracy Lockley – works in graphite on paper to capture the human landscape of Caboolture. Her art responds to gentrification and seeks to preserve the stories of residents disappearing under rising rents and rapid development.

Magdalena Marciniak – glass artist whose work examines the interplay of light, glass, and nature. Her painterly pieces invite quiet contemplation of transparency and reflection.

David V Staines – his practice blends charcoal sketches with acrylic paint, allowing the creative process to remain visible. His work reflects the emotional and visual impact of places and people.

Bec Talbot – abstract artist whose practice emerged from a personal health journey. Bec’s textured works, created with acrylics, impasto, sand, and oil sticks, feature calming neutral tones with subtle contrasts. Her pieces are known for their textured surfaces and neutral, calming colour schemes with subtle contrasts.

This is just a glimpse of the incredible talent featured in our offices nationwide. Discover the full collection and support emerging artists.

Drew Castley
Partner

The team at Hall & Wilcox have summed up the year in review, reflecting on challenges and key moments. 

AI and legal operations: Lisa Ziegert

Generative AI (GenAI) moved from pilot projects to mainstream adoption in 2025. Key advances include AI agents managing complex workflows and domain-specific fine-tuning for legal, financial and healthcare sectors. Organisations are investing in security and governance frameworks to address ethical, privacy and regulatory risks. Responsible adoption has accelerated with legal teams using GenAI tools as a productivity enabler for drafting, summarising, and research.

Debt recovery: David Dickens

Debt recovery actions by statutory bodies surged in 2025, leading to financial pressure across many industries. Lower interest rates offered some relief, but we saw significant uncertainty with global trade conditions earlier in the year. Large developments delayed by COVID-19 are now coming to an end, crystallising disputes and shortfalls to creditors and investors. 

Employment and WHS: Clare Kerley 

Laws continue to evolve, demanding renewed focus on processes and compliance. With new bullying and sexual harassment jurisdictions in NSW for public servants and local government, coupled with increased funding for most safety regulators, getting it right has never been more critical.

Finance: Mark Inston

Private credit markets have increased significantly since the GFC and 2025 has continued that growth. ASIC’s September 2025 report estimates private credit takes up to 40 per cent of the commercial lending market, up to 30 per cent of the asset backed securitised lending market and up to 60 per cent of real estate lending. Consequently, real estate transactions increasingly rely on private credit rather than bank debt. 

Regulatory investigations: Julian Hammond

Integrity issues in procurement and performance remain prevalent, most often from third parties contracted to provide government services. These matters are complex and time-consuming but are a high priority for government executives given public expenditure accountability. They typically involve navigating the dispute elements of ongoing contracts, exercise of audit rights, forensic investigations and mandatory notifications to integrity bodies. It’s important to seek advice as soon as a potential issue arises. 

Employment and privacy: Alison Baker 

AI adoption and implementation is accelerating in the workplace. While AI can offer improved productivity and efficiencies, it also brings employment and privacy legal risks. Organisations need to proactively manage these risks through rigorous governance, WHS and privacy compliance, staff consultation and communication, policies and training. 

Information law: Zeng He

Data, once likened to asbestos, is now integral to harnessing the efficiencies of AI. Integrating AI governance with existing compliance frameworks will be crucial in managing the inevitable risks associated with the use of AI and maintaining data protection.

Insolvency: David Markham

Corporate insolvencies remain elevated in 2025, and cash is tight. This has led to competition between creditors, including government and statutory creditors, in seeking to gain the benefits of being paid first. This trend is expected to continue into 2026 and beyond. 

AI and governance: Suzie Leask

The rapid evolution and adoption of AI places an increased focus on AI governance and technology procurement. Government agencies are navigating AI policies, balancing risk management with opportunities for efficiency and innovation. Probity and good governance remain a priority to maintain public trust and accountability. The National AI Plan sets a clear roadmap for scaling AI adoption nationally, emphasising inclusion and mitigating potential harms without introducing additional AI-specific regulation at this stage.

Corporate and commercial: James Bull

Australia’s new mandatory merger control regime, commencing 1 January 2026, is the most significant development in corporate law this year and is already reshaping deal strategy. The regime will impact a wide range of transactions, from mergers and acquisitions to investments, real property deals, intellectual property transfers, and even certain lease arrangements. While uncertainty remains around how complex notification thresholds and exemptions will apply, one thing is clear: transactions that previously proceeded without regulatory scrutiny may now require mandatory notification and ACCC review.

Insights from the 'You Can't Ask That - Reimagined' series

Navigating the modern leadership landscape

Leadership, compliance, and mental health are ongoing challenges in local government. The 'You Can't Ask That - Reimagined' series we hosted with Norwest Recruitment provided a valuable platform for open discussion and shared insights. Keynote speaker Fay Calderone, a partner in our Employment & Workplace Relations team, joined a remarkable panel featuring Melissa Attia PSM (Cumberland City Council), Sarah Taylor (R U OK? Ambassador, Penrith City Council), and Ben King (City of Canterbury Bankstown). Led by Nicole Sisinni, the series explored the growing complexity of compliance, psychosocial hazards, and the vital role of compassionate leadership.

Key takeaways: leadership beyond the legal minimum

• Distinguishing political and organisational leadership: understanding the difference is crucial for effective governance.
• Transparent communication: consistent and open communication builds trust and clarity within teams and across the organisation.
• Mental health matters: rising psychosocial risks demand proactive assessment and support.

With new legislation and hybrid work arrangements reshaping the workplace, leaders are encouraged to prioritise vulnerability, connection, and authenticity to foster cultures of trust and safety.

Empathy and authenticity: the heart of effective leadership

As the boundaries between HR and WHS blur and mental health claims increase, the panel emphasised that legal compliance is just the beginning. True leadership calls for empathy, proactive risk management, and genuine care for employee wellbeing. 'Walking the talk, showing vulnerability, and encouraging leaders to be human is incredibly important. R U OK? at its core is about being a good human,' Sarah Taylor said.

Melissa Attia agreed, stating, 'Your leadership has to be behaving and walking the talk in a way that reflects the values of the organisation and the workforce you want to have, and looks after the best interests of the staff that work there. It should be an "impenetrable layer".'

Fay Calderone echoed this, warning that, 'if the leadership is toxic, dysfunctional or not listening, it's highly problematic.'

Building trust: safeguarding confidentiality in wellbeing conversations

Confidentiality and trust are central to effective leadership. Fay Calderone highlighted, 'If you don't set clear confidentiality parameters, people won't speak up, and you'll miss psychosocial risks before they escalate.'

Reflecting on your leadership practice

As workplaces evolve, now is the time for leaders to ask:

• Are we fostering trust, safety, and inclusion?
• Are we embracing vulnerability and authentic connection?
• Are we proactively supporting mental health?

Moving beyond compliance to create environments where people and organisations thrive is the hallmark of modern leadership.

Find out more:

• Broken to Safe: Tackling Toxic Workplace Cultures and Burnout available here: faycalderone.com
• Norwest: Nicole Sisinni nicoles@southwestrecruitment.com.au
• Hall & Wilcox: Beyond Compliance for Boards and Executives 

'Your leadership has to be behaving and walking the talk in a way that reflects the values of the organisation and the workforce you want to have...'

When Lauri Reid drives past a newly completed social-housing project, she sees more than just bricks and mortar. ‘That’s a contract we closed,’ she reflects, knowing the real-world impact of her work. As Company Secretary and Board Consultant at Next Steps Australia, a volunteer-run charity supporting women and children escaping domestic violence, in this candid conversation with Carla Thomas, Lauri shares what drew her to law and why giving back matters. 

Your journey into law wasn’t exactly traditional. Tell us about it?

Not at all! I never planned to be a lawyer. At 20, after escaping a violent relationship with my young daughter, I realised legal literacy was no longer optional. To navigate the situation, I needed knowledge to protect myself and my child. The next decade was a mix of meeting university entry requirements, working full-time, parenting full-time, and studying remotely, often during late-night lectures. I persevered and started university around 2007.   

How did you get involved with Next Steps Australia?

In 2020, I searched ‘domestic violence charity near me’ and found Next Steps Australia. They raise funds to supply new manchester packs: doonas, sheets and mattress protectors to women and children arriving at refuges with little more than the clothes they’re wearing. I emailed founder Bernadette Blair and was immediately recruited to volunteer as board consultant. Soon after I was appointed Company Secretary.

What impact have you seen from your work with Next Steps?

The growth has been incredible. Last year, we shipped around 4000 manchester boxes nationally. We launched the Future Steps program, delivering age-specific activity boxes designed by paediatric specialists to rebuild parent-child bonds, and installed Readings Libraries in rural Victorian refuges, with plans to expand interstate. We’re attracting amazing volunteers with diverse professional skills they want to put to good use.

What do you wish more people understood about domestic and family violence?

It can happen to anyone and is often hidden from friends, family and colleagues. Victim-survivors are often hesitant to seek assistance and may not receive support from family, friends or emergency services. This was certainly my experience. Practical support, not judgement, is vital. Offering a safe room, listening without blame, helping plan an exit, those acts save lives. 

How do you balance your legal practice with your board and advisory roles?

It’s challenging to juggle family, work, and voluntary commitments, but seeing results, like a grant coming through or a new initiative launching, keeps me inspired.

Who inspires you?

Bernadette Blair, who built Next Steps Australia from scratch after a long career as a teacher and school principal. Nine years on and she hasn’t stopped. Whenever I feel exhausted, I remember Bernie’s still tirelessly fundraising to get boxes to as many women as possible. She’s a force.

What do you do to unwind?

I’m hunting for a new hobby. If someone ran embroidery classes outside work hours, I’d be there! Otherwise, I love walking my dogs along the beach and listening to audiobooks. I just finished How Women Rise by Sally Helgesen and Marshall Goldsmith, a great read on overcoming habits that hold women back in corporate careers.

Is there a guiding principle you live by?

‘Kindness costs nothing, but it can change someone’s life.’

Carla Thomas 
Senior Knowledge Lawyer 

After completing her first Rottnest Channel Swim, Kendall Messer, Senior Associate in Hall & Wilcox’s General Insurance team, sat down with Partner Rosemary Roach to explore the equally impressive journey behind her legal career. Kendall is a compelling example of how curiosity and courage can shape a career. In this conversation, she shares insights into her path and the mindset that fuels her professional and personal pursuits.

Tell us about your journey to becoming a Senior Associate in the General Insurance department, and what inspired you to specialise in maritime and insurance law?

I initially didn’t even know insurance law existed. I discovered maritime law through an elective in my fifth year. Later, during my Master’s and work at a boutique maritime firm, I realised how critical insurance is to shipping. Shipping and insurance work hand in hand, you can’t be an effective maritime lawyer without understanding insurance. After all, insurance was born out of shipping.

What cases stand out in your career?

Two recent cases come to mind, not for their monetary value, but their broader impact. In both, we advised insurers whose clients represented entire local industries: kiwi-fruit farmers in New Zealand and blueberry farmers in South Africa. These matters touched agricultural communities, storage and packing operations, shipping companies, the entire supply chain. They reminded me that law isn’t just transactional; legal outcomes ripple through real lives and livelihoods.

How did your Master’s in Maritime Law at the University of Oslo shape your career?

When I discovered maritime law, I realised roles were scarce and competitive. I needed an edge, and that’s what led me to pursue a Master’s in Maritime Law at the University of Oslo. Norway, with its deep-rooted maritime culture and history, is at the forefront of shipping and technological innovation. That degree gave me credibility and knowledge to step almost directly into a role as a maritime lawyer. It did exactly what I hoped it would: it opened the door to the industry and allowed me to apply that specialised knowledge immediately.

You’re now studying Oceanography. How does that passion fit with your work?

It’s hard to explain, I just love the ocean. Being near it, in it, learning about it. My Master’s in Oceanography is purely a passion project. I’m fortunate Hall & Wilcox supports me; I work part-time to make space for study. That flexibility is rare in law firms and something Hall & Wilcox does really well.

What advice would you give young lawyers?

I’d encourage any young lawyer to reflect on what they want to achieve in their career. Not just titles or promotions, but the kind of work they want to do and the impact they want to have. Ask yourself, ‘What legal questions excite me? What work brings satisfaction?’. Then shape a career around that. Once you know, tell people! You’ll be surprised how people will want to support you and create opportunities for you too. 

You recently completed the Rottnest Channel Swim. How do you balance work and  personal goals?

Having the flexibility and support from the firm has made all the difference. Swimming recharges me, and that energy flows back into my work. Doing something I love outside work makes me more focused and efficient.

What inspired you to take on this challenge?

I wanted to do something I wasn’t sure I could achieve. Even with preparation, there was a real chance I wouldn’t make it. That uncertainty was part of the appeal, facing the possibility of failure head-on.

What was your approach to training?

Consistency. I trained for a year, starting with short sessions, 30 minutes, three times a week, then gradually increasing intensity and duration. Weekend swims stretched to four hours. I trained alone for flexibility, but toward the end, I sought out a physiotherapist for strength guidance. Motivation wasn’t an issue; I loved the process.

Rosemary Roach 
Partner 

AI is now in an integration phase and is transforming the way we work, with promises of enhanced productivity and efficiency.

Evidence shows that Australian employees are increasingly using AI daily, viewing it as an innovative tool with immeasurable potential.

Key benefits include:

• automating routine or repetitive tasks, freeing up time for meaningful work.
• detecting burnout risks.
• acting as a time management assistant.
• providing access to wellness tools such as counselling chatbots, and mindfulness and stress management apps.

Despite obvious benefits, there are privacy and safety risks employers should be aware of when deploying AI-driven systems.

Potential negative effects of AI on employee morale and wellbeing include:

• Privacy and surveillance risks: AI may collect, use and analyse personal information, including health information, of employees. The use of AI may lead to increased monitoring of employee activities and productivity, without employee knowledge. This can erode trust and confidence in the employer and increase employee stress and anxiety.
• Job insecurity: many employees worry that AI implementation could lead to job displacement, especially when it can perform their core responsibilities. This fear often results in increased stress, anxiety, and uncertainty across the workforce, potentially impacting overall mental health and wellbeing.
• Performance pressure: employees may feel compelled to prove their value compared to AI systems, which can lead to self-imposed workloads and heightened stress.
• Job displacement: employees struggling to adapt to the use of AI technologies may be disadvantaged compared to other employees. This may lead to reduced career progression opportunities and a broadening divide in skills and competencies across the workforce. There is a generational context to be aware of in this regard.
• Social isolation: greater reliance on AI can reduce interpersonal communication and collaboration, leading to social isolation and disconnection, which may negatively affect employees' mental health.

Most government agencies have robust Codes of Conduct and other policies that can be applied to AI-related hazards.

To mitigate psychosocial risks and support employee wellbeing in an increasingly AI-dependant workplace, employers should consider the following:

• Ethical governance: develop and implement clear guidelines and policies on the use of AI, setting out how AI will be used and the measures in place to protect employee's personal information. This will reduce some of the fear and anxiety employees may have about the use of their personal information.
• Offer structured training: employers should offer AI training and upskilling opportunities to help employees understand how AI works, how it can be leveraged to enhance their roles, and to develop human-centric skills that complement AI. Providing structured AI training is essential to ensure employees feel supported rather than left to figure out AI on their own. This training should cover areas such as the ethical use of AI and techniques for creating effective prompts.
• Monitor and review: it is important that employers regularly review and monitor the effects of AI on employee's mental health and wellbeing and make changes where necessary.
• Consult and communicate: before introducing new AI systems, conduct impact assessments and involve employees in the process. Communicate openly about the purpose of the AI and how it will be used. Encourage employee participation in trials, gather feedback for improvements, and explore opportunities to retrain or reallocate employees whose roles may be affected by AI.
• Support programs: employers can also support their employees by offering access to employee assistance programs and wellbeing initiatives.

AI offers transformative potential for government and not engaging with AI comes with its own risks when there is such an appetite for it. Success depends on balancing innovation with employee wellbeing. By embedding ethical practices, transparent communication, and robust support systems, agencies can harness AI responsibly, creating workplaces that are future-ready and importantly, still people-focused.

Alison Baker
Partner

We are thrilled to congratulate Natalie Demir, our talented Business Development & Marketing Manager, on being awarded Marketing Communications Professional of the Year at the 2025 Lawyers Weekly Women in Law Awards.

This prestigious recognition reflects Natalie’s outstanding commitment to strengthening relationships with our public sector clients and her pivotal role in the success of Hall & Wilcox’s government practice. Natalie brings creativity, strategic insight and unwavering diligence to every initiative, ensuring our communications and client engagement are effective and client-centric.

In her client-facing role, Natalie contributes across all aspects of our value offering to government, from educational events and tendering,  to shaping communications and delivering on contractual requirements as well as broader client needs. Her work is underpinned by a profound understanding of the public sector, a curiosity for emerging issues and a genuine desire to connect meaningfully with clients.

Natalie’s efforts have delivered tangible benefits for our clients and the firm, reinforcing our reputation for excellence and innovation in the government space. Her ability to combine strategic thinking with practical execution makes her an invaluable partner to both colleagues and clients.

We are immensely proud of Natalie and her significant contributions to her profession, Hall & Wilcox and the many government clients we serve.

Victoria has enacted Australia's first Treaty with First Peoples, a historic milestone in the state's decade-long commitment to truth, justice, and self-determination. Developed in close partnership with the First Peoples' Assembly of Victoria, this legislation reflects generations of advocacy grounded in reconciliation, equality, and empowerment.

For First Peoples, the Treaty is more than a legal instrument; it is a recognition of sovereignty and a pathway to meaningful change. It seeks to address systemic inequities, strengthen cultural identity, and create a framework for shared decision-making.

Key features of the Treaty include:

• Gellung Warl (tip of the spear): a permanent, elected representative body to advise government, oversee truth-telling, accountability, and the development of future treaties. The Assembly now sits within Gellung Warl.
• Nginma Ngainga Wara (you will do): a body to monitor the State Government's actions and implementation of recommendations from the Yoorrook Justice Commission.
• Nyerna Yoorrook Telkuna (to sit, to listen, to hear, to remember): a mechanism for sharing and recording experiences of historical events and the impact of colonisation, supporting healing for First Peoples and the broader community.
• Larbargirrar Gnuurtak Tulkuuk (community answerability): ensuring the Assembly is democratically and publicly answerable to First Peoples and guided by Aboriginal Lore, Law, and Cultural Authority.

It is important to note that the Treaty does not amend the Victorian or Australian Constitutions, create a separate parliamentary chamber, alter tax legislation, or grant personal cash reparations. The Assembly cannot block government policy or Acts of Parliament and remains answerable to Parliamentary supremacy.

The Treaty will officially commence on 12 December 2025, with a public ceremony at Federation Square celebrating 60,000 years of culture, song, dance, and community.

Keshi Moore, Associate 
Tom Fletcher, Associate

There's something truly special about recipes that carry the weight of family history. This one comes from Jennifer Degotardi, who prepared it alongside her mum, a cherished tradition that has stood the test of time. Rich, fragrant, and steeped in festive spirit (quite literally!), this pudding is more than a dessert; it's a celebration of togetherness. If you're looking for a show-stopping centrepiece for your holiday table, this classic boiled Christmas pudding is sure to impress.

Ingredients

500 g butter

500 g dark brown sugar

500 g plain flour

185 g stale breadcrumbs (day-old) 500 g raisins

625 g sultanas

125 g currants

250 g mixed peel

10 eggs

3 tsp mixed spice

Pinch of nutmeg

150-200 ml rum

Vanilla and lemon essence

¼ tsp carb soda dissolved in ¼ cup boiling water

2 pudding cloths (60cmx60cm) Cooking string (2.5m)

Method

Beat butter and sugar, but don't over cream.

Add eggs one at a time (mixture will look curdled).

Sprinkle in breadcrumbs.

Add half the fruit and half the flour/spice mix alternately.

Make a hollow in the centre; pour in essences, spirits, and soda/water mixture.

Mix well, the mixture should be slightly sloppy.

Assembly

Dip pudding cloths in hot water, wring out, and place over a colander.

Sprinkle cloth generously with plain flour (this forms the pudding skin).

Add mixture, sprinkle top with flour, and tie securely.

Wrap with second wet cloth and tie again.

Boil for six hours, topping up water as needed.

Hints for success

Prep the fruit early: Chop raisins and mix all dried fruit with spirits. Soak for several days before cooking.

After boiling: Lift pudding into a colander and hang to dry.

Alternative finish: Cut string, unwrap carefully, invert onto a plate, peel off cloth, and cover overnight with a clean tea towel. Refrigerate in a sealed container.

It’s time to tap out and tune out. Here are some recommendations from our team to help you make the most of your time off this holiday season.

Ella Simmons, Special Counsel, Property & Projects

We’ll be escaping to the coast for beach swims, sandcastles, and spontaneous sunset dinners with friends. For holiday reading, I trust Annabelle Crabb and Leigh Sales, they never disappoint.

Alexander Gallagher, Special Counsel, Employment 

Take advantage of the summer weather and go for a hike. Nothing beats unplugging, breathing fresh air, and exploring nature. I look for spots within easy driving distance, with kid-friendly trails and a waterfall or scenic view as a reward.

Sal Lennon, Special Counsel, Property & Projects

I recently read Wild Dark Shore by Charlotte McConaghy and I couldn’t put it down! It’s a mystery, set around a family living as caretakers on Shearwater, a fictional island. I also loved Slow Horses (Apple TV). Jackson Lamb, played by Gary Oldman, leads a team of dysfunctional MI5 agents in a spy thriller packed with sharp black humour. 

Ebenezer Assibey-Bonsu, Special Counsel, Dispute Resolution

I make the most of the holidays by travelling, road trips near Perth or exploring new countries. Long drives are perfect for audiobooks, often something from Obama’s Reading List. This year, I’m looking forward to King: A Life by Jonathan Eig, a powerful and deeply researched biography of Martin Luther King Jr.

Lauren Separovich, Special Counsel, Dispute Resolution 

For over 13 years, I’ve hosted a festive high tea with close friends in the lead up to Christmas, featuring an array of homemade treats – scones, finger sandwiches, Croatian specialties, pecan pie, cupcakes, and mince pies. Champagne, Christmas crackers, and decorations set the scene as friends from around the world gather to celebrate together. 

Hamish McNair, Special Counsel, Dispute Resolution

With the Ashes kicking off in Perth, it is time to find an ex-pat Englishman for some friendly banter. The beauty of Test cricket is that it really becomes the sound of summer and while some may regard it as a five-day snooze fest, I recommend that anyone catch the first ball of each test in Perth, Brisbane, Adelaide, Melbourne and Sydney (by which time the Aussies will hopefully have it all sewn up). Howzat! 

Nicola Leach, Senior Associate, Insurance 

Listen to Dish the podcast, specifically the episode featuring Benedict Cumberbatch and Olivia Colman. Dish is a dinner party in podcast form, with Michelin-star menus, cocktails, and unfiltered, funny, sometimes chaotic chat. Perfect light-hearted summer listening.