Commenting on the appointment, co-head of the firm’s global mining sector Gerhard Rudolph said: “Matthew has an outstanding reputation for advising clients in the mining sector. He will provide specialist mining capacity across Australia, Asia-Pacific [region] and globally, allowing us to support our clients locally and across our global mining practice.

“As Perth continues to be a centre of excellence for mining, Matthew’s appointment maintains our senior presence in the Perth market. The biggest driver and opportunity in the sector at the moment lies in the green energy transition.

“The development of future-facing technologies and 2050 net zero pledges heralds new opportunities for mining companies to reposition their business models towards clean energy minerals. Matthew’s insights will be invaluable to our international clients.”

Following Geoff Simpson’s scheduled retirement from the partnership, Mr Johnson will assume control to ensure a smooth and timely handover. 

The Australian is involved with the Law Council of Australia’s Foreign Investment Committee. Legal 500 lists Mr Johnson as a recommended lawyer in the practice areas of corporate and M&A, as well as natural resources (transactions and regulatory).

Also commenting on Mr Johnson’s appointment, head of the firm’s Asia-Pacific corporate practice Victor Ho said: “We are delighted to welcome Matthew to the team. His deep mining sector experience will benefit our clients throughout the Asia-Pacific region.

“His appointment strengthens an already market-leading regional team and further enhances our ability to assist clients on complex domestic Australian and cross-border M&A.”