Speakers

Alan Connor is a highly experienced Director in Risk Consulting at Grant Thornton Australia, based in Sydney. With over 15 years of experience gained in the UK, USA, and Australia, Alan specializes in helping businesses navigate complex prudential and legislative standards, with a particular focus on risk management, internal audit, and Anti-Money Laundering (AML).

Alan has a deep understanding of regulatory compliance, having worked with clients across various industries including financial services (banks, broker-dealers, money services businesses, virtual currency exchanges, credit rating agencies, REITs, and casinos). His recent AML/CTF experience includes identifying and remediating control deficiencies, program consulting, and conducting AML transaction lookbacks, often in conjunction with regulatory bodies like AUSTRAC.

His insights into the evolving risk and regulatory landscape, particularly concerning financial crime and compliance, make him a valuable speaker for licensed conveyancers grappling with new obligations. Alan's ability to simplify complex regulatory requirements and provide practical guidance will be highly beneficial for understanding the intricacies of property transactions and their broader legal implications.

Alan is a Certified Anti-Money Laundering Specialist (CAMS) and a member of the Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA) and the Association of Certified Anti-Money Laundering Specialists (ACAMS). He began his career as an accountant before moving into risk consulting.

Christopher is a senior partner and  Accredited Specialist Property Law at HWL Ebsworth

Christopher has extensive experience in all aspects of commercial property law including retirement villages and aged care, sales and acquisitions, leases and agreements for lease, project development agreements, subdivisions and options. He was selected in 2017 - 2024 editions of Best Lawyers® Australia for Retirement Villages and Senior Living. He is recommended for Health and Aged Care in Doyle's Guide.

As an accredited specialist in property law, Christopher has assisted in a number of complex and significant matters including leasehold transactions, staged strata developments, stratum subdivisions, contaminated land, compulsory acquisitions, native title, community title developments, public positive covenants and planning agreements. His clients include government departments and authorities, aged care providers, urban and regional developers and charities.

Simon is a Principal at Barry Nilsson Lawyers in Sydney, specialising in insurance and litigation with over a decade of experience in professional indemnity. His expertise extends to the specific challenges faced by property practitioners, including issues relevant to conveyancing practices. Simon and his team are well-versed in advising on complex insurance matters and commercial disputes that impact the property sector.

Simon has defended a wide array of professionals in litigated actions across all NSW jurisdictions, including the Supreme and District Courts, NCAT, and regulatory authorities. His professional indemnity practice includes significant experience in handling claims against property professionals, providing him with a deep understanding of the risks and liabilities faced by NSW Licensed Conveyancers. He has also advised on matters involving regulatory bodies and complaint processes relevant to the property industry.

Recognised as a Preeminent Professional Indemnity Lawyer in Doyle's Guide (2024) and listed in Best Lawyers since 2018, Simon is known for achieving strong outcomes for his clients. He is committed to exploring early resolution through alternative dispute resolution and provides robust defence strategies when litigation is necessary. Clients appreciate his approachable and commercially pragmatic approach, valuing his clear communication and focus on achieving practical solutions. Simon's extensive experience makes him a trusted advisor on the professional indemnity issues pertinent to NSW Licensed Conveyancers.