TMT: IT & Telecommunications

Clayton Utz is noted in the IT and telecommunications space for its deep industry knowledge and frequent engagement by significant blue-chip clients on business process outsourcing, data and security matters. The law firm handles transactional matters for critical IT services in the financial and government sectors, including infrastructure procurements and migrations to new technologies, and maintains an impressive client base in the telecoms sphere, advising on everything from joint venture arrangements to access and interconnection agreements between carriers and service providers. Clayton Utz also fields prominent media ownership and broadcasting rights expertise, particularly well honed in the sporting field, and a well-regarded transactional practice, advising on strategic acquisitions and tie-ups. It additionally provides full support on regulatory issues and is well placed to access complementary expertise in IP and competition matters.

"The advice received from Clayton Utz is always timely, accurate and in the best interest of our business."

"They have excellent communication skills and provide practical, hands-on advice. They are also willing to think outside the box and to be challenged on their thinking."

Clayton Utz assisted Amplitel with the preparation of key strategic submissions and the provision of information to regulators and the government relating to mobile infrastructure access and competition issues including challenges in regional Australia.

Clayton Utz acted for Free TV in Copyright Tribunal proceedings concerning the licence terms for a commercial television broadcast industry agreement with copyright collecting society Phonographic Performance Company of Australia.

Ken Saurajen is based in Sydney and acts for both public and private sector bodies on strategic technology and procurement projects, notably including those exploiting emerging technologies. Also a frequent adviser on software development, licensing and support issues, he is engaged by clients from a wide range of industries, but is particularly well known for his work in the financial services sector. "He's always there, almost like an extra team member. Ken's also humble and I found his advice to be pragmatic and commercial." "No one comes close to the expertise of Ken Saurajen in the TMT and technology sector."

Simon Newcomb specialises in the handling of technology transactions, being particularly well known for his work on behalf of public sector clients at local, state and Commonwealth government levels. An experienced Brisbane-based manager of complex procurement and outsourcing mandates, he is also well versed in cybersecurity issues. "Simon is an incredibly able lawyer with a great depth of experience. He's very expert, very detailed, very pragmatic and has acted for both sides - for purchasers of TMT and vendors."

Bruce Lloyd is both an experienced competition lawyer and head of the TMT group at Clayton Utz. He is respected for his advice to major telecommunications clients.

John Dieckmann is based in Melbourne and has extensive expertise in information technology. He is well equipped to advise on IT procurement, cybersecurity and privacy issues. "John is a recognised expert who's highly accessible and approachable. I have great confidence in his advice and deft negotiation skills. He's a very safe pair of hands." "I rate John Dieckmann highly, he's very good."

Timothy Webb combines a strong IP focus with experience in handling disputes to service clients in contentious and non-contentious mandates. Issues related to copyright, patents and trade marks fall under the umbrella of his expertise, and he has represented clients before the Federal and Supreme Courts. "Above all, I trust Timothy Webb with giving me the right legal advice for the commercial context in which I require it. He is also always accessible."