Clayton Utz named Legal Adviser of the Year at inaugural PPP Awards

Sydney, 1 December 2017: Clayton Utz' reputation for innovation in legal services in Public Private Partnership projects (PPPs) and its industry contribution were recognised with the Legal Adviser of the Year award at the first-ever Partnerships Bulletin PPP Awards in Sydney last night. The Awards celebrate outstanding achievements and projects within the PPP industry in the Asia-Pacific.

Clayton Utz won the award in recognition of the firm's role as principal legal adviser on some of Australia's most innovative PPP projects, and its teams' ability to pre-empt, navigate and manage the complex issues and administrative requirements on these projects. In particular, the judges were impressed by Clayton Utz' ongoing role and impact in advancing the PPP model and industry in Australia.

Major Projects and Construction national practice group leader Sergio Capelli said he was proud to see Clayton Utz recognised for its leadership in PPPs and major projects generally. "Our firm has been a leading proponent of the PPP model and its benefits when matched with the right projects. It's exciting to be part of the industry's evolution in Australia."

Sergio also congratulated clients Plenary Group, Macquarie Capital and Partnerships Victoria on their success at the Awards. "We're very fortunate to work with both government and private sector participants who are leading the way in project delivery and innovation. It's great to see their contributions recognised."

Clayton Utz also advised on three projects that won awards in their respective categories:

Best Operational Project – Gold

Darling Harbour Live, International Convention Centre Sydney -  Adviser to Sydney Harbour Foreshore Authority and Infrastructure NSW on the $1.5 billion revitalisation of the convention, exhibition and entertainment facilities in Sydney's Darling Harbour, as part of the $3.4 billion revitalisation of the Darling Harbour precinct. Lead partners: Stuart Cosgriff and Gary Best

Best Operational Project – Silver

Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre, Australia - Adviser to the Plenary Health consortium on the $1 billion development of the purpose built centre for excellence in cancer research, treatment, education and care. Lead partner: Marcus Davenport

Best Transport Project – Silver

Toowoomba Second Range Crossing, Australia - Adviser to the Queensland Government on the $1.6 billion development of the 41 kilometre tolled bypass route to the north of Toowoomba to ease congestion on existing highway networks and provide a safer gateway to the resource-rich Surat Basin. Lead partners: David Lester and Alan Maguire.