Corporate Advisory and Governance
We provide dynamic legal counsel to support private companies, government-owned enterprises, investors, property developers and family businesses across the full range of commercial and corporate advisory services.
Whatever you need to set up, manage or grow your business, we can provide the legal expertise and industry knowledge to give you an Astute Advantage. Our team has deep experience across many industry sectors including agricultural supply, child care, construction supply, health, real estate, retail, sports, telecommunications, transport and veterinary industries.
We are also represented on many industry bodies, including the Franchising Council of Australia, Australian Institute of Company Directors (AICD), Property Council of Australia and Chair Connect (representing governance in independent schools) to share our legal insights and stay across the latest industry developments.
We focus on what’s important to you, ensuring not only that deals get done, but they are drafted, negotiated and completed with your commercial objectives, risk appetite and industry drivers always at the forefront of our legal strategy and decision making.
Specific services
Enterprise structuring
Whether you’re starting out or entering a new phase, we can guide you on the most effective business structures; draft constitutions, shareholder or other security agreements; and advise on regulatory compliance and other matters.
Corporate governance
Many private companies, government owned enterprises, not for profit organisations and schools rely on us for governance advice, including practical advice on how to set up the most effective governance frameworks and improve board processes and performance.
Mergers and acquisitions
Undertaking growth by acquisition can take different formats with a variety of goals. We provide practical advice and pragmatic solutions to align the process with the strategy. Together we mitigate risk and maximise value.
Not for profit
Our team is proud to work with many charities, trusts and community organisations to provide legal advice on structuring, tax, corporate governance, estates, intellectual property and regulatory compliance. Our pro bono services include legal support and board representation with our valued charity partners.
Schools
Within the private education sector, we have extensive experience working with independent schools to provide expert advice to principals and boards on governance issues, accreditation requirements, planning and property matters, development agreements and project structuring.
Family office
Many successful families need support with wealth stewardship and cultivating family capacity. We support families navigating the challenges of family dynamics, skill development, leadership transition, portfolio management, governance and decision making, health and well-being, risk management, philanthropic strategies, estate planning and family office creation, operations and effectiveness.
Growth funding
When you’re ready to grow your business, we can guide you through funding processes to ensure you meet funders’ needs and regulatory compliance. We regularly advise on private fundraising and have experience working with a range of private capital investors.
Shareholder governance
Effective management is key to the success of any business. We can assist in the negotiation and preparation of effective management and governance documents to ensure that funding requirements, management protocols and exit scenarios that work are documented in plain English.
Key contacts
We work to build authentic relationships where our experience and dynamic counsel combine to deliver invaluable insights that drive your success.
Peter Hollett, Director, Education Finance Services Pty Ltd
As a client over many years I can highly recommend any form of legal representation by Ken Petty and his team. Their service, advice, attention to detail and professionalism are outstanding. If you are looking for competent professional people, reliable communication and precise solid advice you can’t go past them.
Ben Graziani, CFO/Company Secretary, National Trust of Australia (Queensland) Limited
Insights
Leading expertise, nationally recognised
Connect with our dynamic legal advisors to unlock your astute advantage and shape greater outcomes for your business, your people and your community.
Contact our Corporate Advisory and Governance experts
Our experienced team is here to help you navigate through any challenge with confidence and expertise. Contact us now for a consultation.