In this episode of the NEXT KWM Responsible Business Podcast, hosts Clem Johnson and Dan Creasey explore how businesses can lead meaningful, lasting change by learning from nature and embracing adaptive networks. Joined by special guests Sarah Downey (CEO, Shared Value Project Australia and New Zealand) and Leith Sharp (Director, Executive Education in Sustainability Leadership, Harvard University), the conversation delves into the intersection of business, law, community, and society.

Key topics discussed:

1. The power of adaptive networks and collective intelligence in driving organizational change
2. How biomimicry and indigenous knowledge can inspire innovation and resilience
3. The importance of authentic leadership, psychological safety, and storytelling in embedding sustainability
4. Overcoming barriers to integrating sustainability into core business strategy
5. Real-world examples of change agents and the “squiggle” journey of bringing ideas to life

Whether you’re a business leader, sustainability professional, or change agent, this episode offers practical insights and inspiration for shaping a better, more sustainable future.

Tune in, subscribe, and join the conversation! #Sustainability #Leadership

Please note that while Dan Creasey has left KWM, he remains deeply connected to the important issues explored in these episodes. His insights continue to be invaluable in our discussions.

Hosts: Rod Smythe, Shirley Cheng, Vishal Ahuja

Duration: 16.35

Summary: 

In this episode of Power Perspectives, KWM’s Rod Smythe, Shirley Cheng, and Vishal Ahuja break down the Nelson Review, a major government-backed initiative set to drive investment in firmed renewables and storage on Australia’s East Coast.

The team explores the Review’s headline reforms and what they mean for investors, developers and energy sector stakeholders. They discuss how the proposed changes aim to boost market confidence, improve contract liquidity and facilitate greater participation from both traditional and emerging energy technologies.

Key Topics Discussed:

• The Electricity Services Entry Mechanism (ESEM) 
• Standardised contracts and market liquidity
• Mandatory Market Making Obligation regime and its impact on contract availability
• Increasing participation from virtual power plants, batteries and large energy users
• Opportunities and challenges for long-duration storage and firming services

Tune in to hear how the Nelson Review could reshape Australia’s energy market and what it means for those navigating the energy transition.

Digital Future Summit Series Episode 8: AI in the Workplace

Presenters:

• Sarah Clarke, KWM
• Bran Black, Business Council of Australia
• Barbara Hyman, Sapia.ai
• Edward Santow, Human Technology Institute
• Lee Hicken, National AI Centre

In the final episode of KWM’s Digital Future Summit Series, legal, business and technology leaders consider the transformative impact of AI in the workplace. They discuss the tension between productivity gains and job security, acknowledging the need for transparency and engagement for successful AI adoption. The conversation also explores workforce transformation, skills demand, and the future of AI governance.

Key Points:

1. Workers want to be upskilled and involved in how AI is introduced in their workplaces.
2. AI can elevate human potential by automating repetitive tasks and enhancing decision-making.
3. Australia faces a productivity challenge that AI can help address, but it requires a supportive regulatory environment.
4. Businesses must foster a culture of AI literacy to build confidence and encourage innovation among employees.
5. Regulation should focus on existing frameworks while addressing gaps to promote safe and effective AI adoption.

Additional Resources here:

https://pages.kwm.com/directions-report

https://www.pc.gov.au/inquiries/current/data-digital#interim

https://aiagenda.bca.com.au/

https://www.kwm.com/au/en/insights/latest-thinking/ai-in-the-australian-finance-industry-opportunities-risks-and-benefits.html

https://www.industry.gov.au/publications/australias-artificial-intelligence-ecosystem-growth-and-opportunities

https://www.bca.com.au/unlocking_australia_s_r_d_potential

https://kpmg.com/au/en/insights/artificial-intelligence-ai/trust-in-ai-global-insights-2025.html

https://ministers.treasury.gov.au/ministers/jim-chalmers-2022/articles/opinion-piece-australia-shouldnt-fear-ai-revolution-we-can

Digital Future Summit Series Episode 7: Board strategies for cyber security and AI innovation

Presenters:

• Cheng Lim, KWM
• Andy Penn, Director
• Richard Dammery, Director
• Catherine Brenner, Director

A group of highly experienced business leaders discuss the intersection of cybersecurity and AI governance for Boards. They explore ways to manage risks, stay informed, and leverage AI innovation while ensuring organisational resilience.

Key Points:

1. Cybersecurity is a critical risk that must be prioritised on every organisation's risk register.
2. Developing an inventory of digital assets is essential to protect against malicious cyber activity.
3. Crisis management plans should be established and tested before an incident occurs.
4. Collaboration among industry players enhances resilience and strengthens defense against cyber threats.
5. Organisations must embrace AI responsibly, balancing innovation with effective risk management strategies.

Resources:

NIST cybersecurity framework

KWM Cyber Resources

AICD Cyber Security Governance Principles

KWM and Sapiere: AFIA Report on AI in the Finance Industry

Digital Future Summit Series Episode 6: Trends in crypto, payments and fintech

Presenters:

• Urszula McCormack, KWM
• John Ho, Standard Chartered Bank
• Shiau Sin Yen, Titan Fund
• Yvonne Tsui, Hong Kong Monetary Authority

In this episode of the Digital Future Summit Series, we explore the evolving landscape of digital finance in 2025. Our expert panel discusses the rapid advancements in crypto markets, stable coins, tokenisation, and regulatory frameworks across Asia and beyond. Join us for a deep dive into the key trends shaping the future of digital finance.

Key points:

1. The total crypto market cap has surged to approximately $3.5 trillion, with Bitcoin routinely trading over $100,000.
2. Institutional adoption is accelerating, with significant interest in stable coins and tokenised assets for payments and fundraising.
3. Regulatory clarity is emerging globally, fostering innovation and investor protection in sophisticated digital asset markets.
4. Digital identity and interoperability are crucial for reducing friction and enhancing access to financial services.
5. Asia is leading the charge in crypto adoption, driven by young tech-savvy populations and progressive regulatory frameworks.

Additional Resources here:

In Australia...

Crypto custody: ASIC expands its Regulatory Guidance under RG 133 - KWM

The future of digital money is coming – evolutionary steps for Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) in Australia

Token a closer look at the impact of digital asset cases on financial markets - KWM

In Hong Kong...

Gen AI Guide for Financial Institutions

Hong Kong’s new stablecoins law: what issuers and distributors need to know

Hong Kong’s Stablecoins Ordinance goes live today: What you need to know - KWM

Hong Kong Monetary Authority - Fintech Supervisory Sandbox (FSS)

SFC Publishes Fresh Guidance for Virtual Asset Exchange Licensing - KWM

Digital Future Summit Series Episode 5: ASIC Chair Joe Longo

Presenters:

• Alex Elser, KWM
• David Friedlander, KWM
• Joe Longo, ASIC Chair

In this episode of the Digital Future Summit series, ASIC Chair Joe Longo discusses the corporate regulator’s discussion paper into private and public capital markets in Australia, considering the impact of AI, markets’ operation, and the role of superannuation money. Longo shares insights from ASIC's recent paper and outlines the commission's approach to enhancing transparency and data collection in private markets.

Key Points:

1. ASIC's recent discussion paper aims to reshape public and private markets in Australia, emphasising the need for market transparency.
2. Why Joe Longo believes the decline in public listings is influenced more by structural factors than regulatory burdens.
3. Why ASIC seeks greater data visibility in private markets to enhance its understanding of capital flows and investment practices.
4. How the commission is exploring the potential of digital financial reporting as a way to modernise market practices – and wider potential law reform.
5. The importance of balancing regulation and innovation, particularly in the rapidly evolving AI landscape.

Additional Resources here:

https://download.asic.gov.au/media/44hh5ctv/australia-s-evolving-capital-markets-a-discussion-paper-on-the-dynamics-between-public-and-private-markets.pdf

https://www.kwm.com/au/en/insights/latest-thinking/asics-private-markets-review-the-next-chapter.html

https://www.asic.gov.au/about-asic/news-centre/inside-asic-podcast/#series2-episode2

https://www.asic.gov.au/regulatory-resources/find-a-document/consultations/dp-australia-s-evolving-capital-markets-a-discussion-paper-on-the-dynamics-between-public-and-private-markets/#submissions

https://www.asic.gov.au/about-asic/news-centre/find-a-media-release/2025-releases/25-096mr-asic-clears-path-for-faster-ipos/

Digital Future Summit Series Episode 4: Privacy Commissioner Carly Kind

Presenters:

• Michael Swinson, KWM
• Bryony Evans, KWM
• Australian Privacy Commissioner Carly Kind

Australian Privacy Commissioner Carly Kind discusses developments in privacy law reforms, the implications of AI and emerging technologies on privacy, and the regulatory landscape for data protection in Australia. Commissioner Kind highlights key priorities for the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner, focusing on the importance of balancing privacy protections with the benefits of innovation in the digital economy.

Key points:

1. Passing of the first tranche of privacy law reforms and new statutory tort for serious invasions of privacy – an important step for individual rights and regulatory enforcement.
2. The OAIC’s regulatory priorities: addressing persistent privacy harms, particularly in the online realm, and rebalancing power asymmetries to protect vulnerable groups.
3. Commissioner Kind highlights the need for clarity on how existing privacy laws apply to new technologies like AI and the importance of transparency.
4. The conversation covers development of the Children's Online Privacy Code and the need for age-appropriate consultations to ensure children's privacy protection.
5. Commissioner Kind discusses the value of collaboration with other regulators, both domestically and internationally, to address privacy challenges particularly regarding emerging technologies like AI and facial recognition.

Additional Resources here:

KWM Insight | First tranche of privacy law reforms – breading down the Privacy Amendment Bill

KWM Insight | Statutory tort for serious invasions of privacy

KWM Insight | Introduction of social media ban

KWM Insight | Social Media Minimum Age Bill Introduced

KWM Insight | Rebooting the system – the Government announces its plans for the Consumer Data Right

Digital Future Summit Series Episode 3: Productivity Commission Chair Danielle Wood

Presenters:

• Annabel Griffin, KWM
• Jennifer Barron, KWM
• Danielle Wood, Productivity Commission Chair

In this episode of the Digital Future Summit Series, Chair of the Productivity Commission Danielle Wood explains her role and the productivity imperative Australia faces. The discussion covers the economic landscape, challenges and opportunities presented by AI and data, and the importance of regulatory reform in fostering a dynamic economy. Danielle details the Productivity Commission's current inquiries and outlines actionable recommendations to enhance competition, efficiency, and sustainable growth as Australia navigates its transition to a clean energy future.

Key Points:

1. Danielle Wood highlights productivity’s essential role in driving sustainable improvements in living standards.
2. The conversation unpacks Australia’s low productivity growth and the implications for future generations.
3. Wood addresses the complexities of regulatory burdens on businesses and the need for a cultural shift in policymaking to prioritise growth.
4. Exploring the potential for AI and data to enhance productivity and innovation, Wood advocates for a balanced regulatory framework that encourages technology adoption while managing associated risks.
5. Looking at the productivity implications of Australia's clean energy transition, Wood stresses the importance of harmonizing regulations across jurisdictions and creating market-based signals to attract investment in sustainable initiatives.

Additional Resources here:

• Five pillars of productivity inquiries
• Economic Reform Roundtable | Treasury.gov.au
• Interim Report - Creating a more dynamic and resilient economy
• Interim Report - Harnessing data and digital technology
• KWM’s AI regulatory map
• Interim Report - Investing in cheaper, cleaner energy and the net zero transformation
• KWM’s update on the NEM Wholesale Markets Review
• https://www.kwm.com/au/en/insights/latest-thinking/australian-government-gets-ai-ready-new-ai-technical-standard-and-launch-of-gov-ai.html
• https://treasury.gov.au/review/economic-reform-roundtable

Digital Future Summit Series Episode 2: the ACCC on Balancing Innovation and Competition

Presenters:

• Caroline Coops, KWM
• Peta Stevenson, KWM
• Gina Cass-Gottlieb, ACCC Chair

In episode 2 of the Digital Future Summit Series, Caroline Coops and Peta Stevenson are joined by Gina Cass-Gottlieb, the Chair of the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC), to discuss the findings and implications of the ACCC's Digital Platforms Inquiry. The conversation covers the balance between innovation and competition, the challenges of regulating fast-paced digital industries, and the critical role of consumer trust in fostering a thriving digital economy.

Key Points:

1. The eight-year journey of the ACCC's Digital Platforms Inquiry, which began in 2017, focusing on the impact of digital platforms on competition, media, and advertising.
2. Gina Cass-Gottlieb’s preferred regulatory approaches, favouring a combination of forward-looking (ex ante) regulation alongside traditional enforcement (ex post) to manage changing technology markets.
3. The importance of fostering innovation while mitigating competitive harm.
4. How consumer trust is essential for the successful adoption of digital services.
5. The significance of collaboration among international regulators to address common challenges.

Additional Resources here:

ACCC Digital Platforms Inquiry - Timeline

Second Term’s a Charm: Labor’s ambitions for competition and consumer law reform

ACCC media release: Regulatory reform in digital platform markets is needed to improve competition and consumer outcomes

Digital Future Summit Series Episode 1: AI & Great Powers – In Conversation with Jeffrey Ding

Presenters:

• Cheng Lim, KWM
• Jeffrey Ding, Author

In the opening episode of KWM’s Digital Future Summit Series, Cheng Lim speaks with Jeffrey Ding, assistant professor of political science at George Washington University and author of the critically acclaimed book, Technology and the Rise of Great Powers. They explore the concept of General Purpose Technologies (GPTs), the dynamics of technology diffusion, and the implications for global competition, particularly between the US and China. This discussion sheds light on the essential role of AI in shaping future productivity and the lessons that nations, including Australia, can draw from historical technological revolutions.

Key Points:

1. Jeffrey explains GPTs and how they differ from other technological advancements.
2. Why the ability to effectively diffuse technology across a nation’s economy is crucial for productivity gains.
3. Jeffrey illustrates how countries like Britain and the US capitalized on GPTs to become global leaders.
4. While China is making strides in AI innovation, it struggles with diffusion and adoption.
5. What should Australia should focus on regarding AI strategy?

Additional Resources here:

Digital Future Summit (kwm.com)

Data & Tech: Navigating a connected world

AFIA Report - AI in the Australian finance industry: Opportunities, risks and benefits - KWM 

KWM’s AI insights page – contains articles, regulatory trackers & previous seminars
- The KWM Map of AI Regulation in Australia
- AI race heats up: What US export controls mean for Asia 

KWM APAC Data Centre Regulatory Guide  

ChinAI Newsletter | Jeffrey Ding | Substack 

Five pillars of productivity inquiries - Productivity Commission