Michael is a graduate of the University of Adelaide and joined Kelly & Co. in 1990. In January 1996, Michael became a partner of the firm. Michael specialises in advising resource and mining companies concerning their regulatory, common law and contractual obligations. His practice has both a litigious and advisory focus. Michael has extensive experience in relation to the day to day conduct of exploration and production operations, the regulation of joint venture relationships and dealing with government. His experience includes the defense of prosecutions for statutory breach, failure to supply and Warden's Court claims for entry and compensation. In recent years, Michael has also advised resource companies, financiers and pastoralists concerning the impact of native title and Aboriginal heritage issues. In 2004, he successfully negotiated on behalf of the holder of a pastoral lease the first Indigenous Land Use Agreement over pastoral land in South Australia. Michael also conducts a commercial and general litigation practice for a variety of commercial clients of the firm. Michael is formerly a secretary of the Australian Mining and Petroleum Law Association (AMPLA) and a member of Legislative and Land Use committee of SACOME. | 