Climate Change Litigation for Commercial Lawyers

Tuesday, 10 March 2020 (Registration Required)

The effects of climate change were evident during the recent catastrophic fire events across Australia, resulting in severe emotional and financial losses.  And where there is loss, there is often litigation.

The Bar Association of NSW presents a CPD on climate change litigation by and for commercial litigators. The CPD will provide a practical understanding of the key legal risks, concepts and trends for commercial litigators in this rapidly expanding area of law.

The panellists will provide a practical overview of the state of play of climate change litigation in Australia as well as relevant cases from other jurisdictions. They will detail the existing legal obligations, and explain how regulators and the courts are likely to determine whether those obligations have been met. Focussing on the potential vulnerabilities of corporate clients, they will also discuss emerging trends and developments.

Mr Noel Hutley SC and Mr Sebastian Hartford Davis, will discuss the key statutory obligations that apply to company directors and trustees, and explain how climate change has been mainstreamed as a financial risk that must be addressed in corporate decision-making and management processes.

Ms Ilona Millar, Partner and Global Head of Baker McKenzie's Climate Change practice, and an associate within that practice, Ms Sharona Coutts, will discuss the practical ways that corporate entities can meet those obligations. They will also share insights from the market and highlight important concepts that must considered.

The event will be chaired by Justice Rachel Pepper of the NSW Land and Environment Court.

Speakers

• Noel Hutley SC, Barrister, Fifth Floor St James Hall
• Sebastian Hartford Davis, Barrister, Banco Chambers
• Ilona Millar, Partner and Global Head, Baker McKenzie's Climate Change practice
• Sharona Coutts, Associate, Baker McKenzie's Climate Change practice 

Chair

• The Honourable Justice Rachel Pepper, NSW Land and Environment Court.

Registration Required