As the world accelerates toward decarbonisation, the global energy transition is reshaping not only markets and industries, but also the balance of geopolitical power. At the same time, the resurgence of populist nationalism—embodied most prominently by the Trumpist movement in the United States—is reshaping global security dynamics. This session explores the intersection of these seismic shifts, analysing how energy policies in Australia are being impacted by global events.

A discussion of the existing legal regime in outer space, a practical experience of launch approvals in Australia, the commercial and military use of space, the values and costs of identified resources on the Moon and asteroids and how to manage security of tenure and environmental and common heritage of mankind issues.

A panel exploring effective partnerships with First Nations in energy and resource projects. Speakers include Indigenous, corporate and legal leaders from Australia and Canada, highlighting the importance of Indigenous governance, free, prior and informed consent, and community-led clean energy. The discussion will consider benefit-sharing and long-term relationships that support self-determination and equitable outcomes.

An exploration of the development of a CCS/CCUS industry in Australia and associated challenges through an exploration of what it takes to develop a large-scale CCS project, from a technological and commercial aspect, as well as a consideration of the existing regulatory frameworks and what evolutions are required to support the development of a domestic and cross-border industry.

A panel discussion providing an overview of generative AI technology and the opportunities and risks it brings in legal settings. With this technology comes new ethical obligations and court procedures that practitioners should be familiar with. Novel legal issues also arise requiring new regulation and a re-think of governance frameworks and policies as risk profiles evolve. 

With all this comes the opportunity to realise value and unlock productivity in the business of law as well as obligations to mitigate risks.

This session will cover the current state of environmental, social and governance (ESG) in key jurisdictions globally and in Australia, the pro and anti-ESG movements, and legal, regulatory and compliance risks associated with ESG.  Discussion will then turn to the future state of play with ESG in Australia, bearing in mind the current and expected global landscape and trends.

This session will explore Indigenous water rights, national reforms, and sustainable water management in the energy and resources sector. Experts will discuss the draft National Water Agreement, mine closure planning, international legal developments, and Water Act reforms. A case study on Indigenous water rights will highlight the need for inclusive, sustainable water governance in a transitioning resource landscape.

Australian miners are increasingly investing in overseas projects. One of the most characteristic features of trans-boundary Resources Investment is the dramatic risk/reward relationship associated with exploration and production. Therefore, it is essential that Resource Professionals and their advisors understand the dynamics of these mitigable risks, particularly in the developing world.

Key components to mitigate risk are Australia’s network of investment related instruments in the form of both multilateral and bilateral investment treaties that contain the feature of dispute resolution mechanisms of international investment and commercial arbitration.

Prof Colin Roberts will be introducing some fundamentals and The Hon Steven Rares KC will follow, speaking about how the Australian Courts are approaching the treaty types of which Australia is a contracting State.

Royalties are a common feature of the mining industry. During this session we will provide an overview of royalties, dig in to some common pitfalls and how to avoid them, and also provide some insights into the use of royalties in quasi-financing arrangements. We will consider the different types of private mining royalties and some recent trends in the use of mining royalties as well as judicial considerations.

The role of gas in Australia’s energy future is under intense scrutiny. This session aims to provide a critical insight into the evolving regulatory landscape shaping Australia’s domestic gas policies, including domestic reservations and policies directed to achieving energy security and affordability, within the broader complex, and at times contentious, role of gas in the broader energy transition.

An exploration of current issues and emerging trends within the critical mineral industry, including opportunities and challenges for value and supply chains, production and processing and investment trends and the Dhawura Ngilan Business and Investor Initiative, including practical steps companies and investors can take to uphold the rights of Traditional Owner groups and the right to free prior and informed consent in critical minerals development.

Practical insights for developing your renewables project, including an examination of typical development and investor structures in Australia, standard and battery PPAs and legal planning for early engagement with traditional owners and access to land.

This session traverses decommissioning from a number of fronts. Commencing with offshore petroleum projects and an examination of the state of play of the industry following the introduction of trailing liability and potential implications of further developments in this space. The discussion will then turn to an examination of mining rehabilitation in Western Australia following the review of the mine rehabilitation fund and approvals and planning considerations.

As environmental, social and governance (ESG) obligations tighten and stakeholder scrutiny intensifies, energy and resources companies are facing unprecedented challenges. This session explores how organisations can proactively adapt to emerging ESG risks, manage complex disputes, emerging financial regulations and navigate evolving governance expectations in a fast-shifting regulatory and investor landscape.

This session will cover the life cycle of a joint venture relationship and the potential associated risks.  Topics which will be discussed include joint venture structuring, common issues in negotiations and operational risk management, identifying pressure points and strategies for disputes, and highlighting some of the unique challenges that parties face when arbitrating with, or against, their joint venture partners.

Policy discussions and conversations will continue to explore the development of a nuclear industry in Australia. In this session, our panel of nuclear experts will explore the regulatory framework for a nuclear industry in Australia and the opportunities and challenges for our industry, drawing on their deep industry and international experience to provide unique insights on regulatory policy, project development, uranium mining, fuel processing, AUKUS and international learnings and opportunities.