Deal: As part of its $500 million investment for reef conservation and management, the federal government announced a $444 million partnership with the Great Barrier Reef Foundation, which will see funding for various projects to tackle crown-of-thorns starfish overabundance, reduce pollution into the Reef and mitigate the impacts of climate change.

Value: $444 million

Area: Commercial, resources

Key players: Allens’ team is spearheaded by special counsel Glenys Hodges, partner Michael Morris and director of community engagement Nicky Friedman.

Deal significance: “The investment from the Australian government enables us to expand our world-leading reef research and restoration programs,” said Great Barrier Reef Foundation managing director Anna Marsden.

“As the lead charity for the Reef, we take seriously our obligation to ensure we partner with like-minded and committed organistions.”

Ms Hodges said she was delighted to see future projects secured by the government’s funding commitment.

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“Given its immeasurable global significance and status as a natural wonder, the Great Barrier Reef’s protection and restoration is a pro bono project about which everyone at Allens feels passionate,” she said.

“Establishing the Great Barrier Reef Foundation as a charity and registered environmental organisation with deductible-gift status sets it on course for future success.”

Mr Morris added that working with the foundation was a career highlight, and that it was humbling to see how successful the foundation had become over the past 18 years.

“Allens is pleased and proud to continue supporting the foundation’s work by assisting with compliance and governance, and various agreements with partners, grant givers and research partners,” he said.

“Having a solid legal framework ensures the work of the foundation achieves its objectives.”