Sydney, 25 June 2010: Clayton Utz has hosted a farewell cocktail function at their Sydney office for ten Chinese lawyers who recently completed the three-month Australia - China Legal Professional Development Program.
The Australia - China Legal Professional Development Program is a joint initiative between the Australian and Chinese governments, the Law Council of Australia and the All China Lawyers' Association, and places Chinese lawyers with Australian legal firms and agencies.
Clayton Utz is one of a number of law firms to host lawyers under the program.
The program first started in 2007 and aims to develop stronger links between the legal professions in Australia and China through a 3 to 4 month long exchange offering participants a unique insight into Australian law and our legal system.
Speaking at the function, Clayton Utz's National Head of International Arbitration and Projects, and exchange participant mentor, Doug Jones, said: "Clayton Utz is pleased to have been involved in the Australia - China Legal Professional Development Program, which is a an excellent initiative in strengthening Sino-Australia legal ties. We look forward to an ongoing involvement in the program." The Secretary of the Attorney-General's Department, Roger Wilkins AO, also spoke at the function.
Clayton Utz's China Practice Head Susan O'Rourke said the firm's decision to participate in the program reflected its commitment to China. "Clayton Utz's experience, particularly in the energy and resources sectors, is highly valued by our Chinese clients who continue to see Australia as an attractive investment destination. Australia's relationship with China will continue to be an important one, and initiatives such as the Australia - China Legal Professional Development Program are welcomed contributions to the understanding of the Australian legal system and legal practice."