Special guests from China and Singapore will attend the Melbourne event, the 2nd Engaging the Asian Economies – Law and Practice Conference, hosted by the Victorian Bar and the Commercial Bar Association of Victoria.

The recent push for a Melbourne-based International Arbitration Centre outlined in a submission to the State and Federal Attorneys-General by the Victorian Bar, Law Institute of Victoria (LIV) and four national dispute resolution bodies will also be discussed. 

“Asia is always a destination of keen interest to Victorian lawyers, but how we develop those connections takes commitment,” said William Lye, Chair of the Asia Practice Section of the Commercial Bar Association.

“This is why this conference brings together experts in Asian business and economics who will present data on issues ranging from cultural literacy and the best models for expanding legal practices into Asia.” 

Speakers include the Victorian Attorney General, Robert Clark, Supreme Court of Victoria Chief Justice Marilyn Warren, Supreme Court of Singapore Justice Steven Chong and the Chairman of the Singapore International Arbitration Centre, Dr Michael Pryles.

Victorian Bar Chairman, Mark Moshinsky, said bringing together leaders from Victorian and Asian jurisdictions was a critical to strengthening ties.

“The human connection is the key to the development of strategic partnerships and opening up opportunity for the Victorian profession in Asia – and for the profession to showcase its considerable expertise to Asian business,” he said.

“This conference is a significant event in the development of Victoria’s connection with Asia and the Bar is proud to bring these key leaders to Melbourne with the support of the Victorian Government, the Supreme Court of Victoria, ACLA, LIV and Monash University,” Moshinsky said.