Ian Robertson

Melbourne, VIC

About Ian

Ian Robertson AO, serving as Partner and Chair at Holding Redlich in Sydney, brings extensive expertise in corporate and commercial law, media and communications, and regulatory and government sectors. Since joining the firm in Melbourne in 1989, he quickly advanced to Partner by 1990. Relocating to Sydney in 1994, Ian played a pivotal role in establishing the firm's presence there. His leadership as Managing Partner of the Sydney office spanned over two decades until 2015, and he then served as National Managing Partner until mid-2023 before assuming his current role. Recognised in The Best Lawyers in Australia since 2011, Ian is a leading figure in corporate, entertainment, and defamation and media law. His notable appointment as an Officer in the General Division of the Order of Australia in 2018 highlights his distinguished contributions to the arts, particularly the Australian film industry and the legal profession. Ian's breadth of experience encompasses public policy, governance, and regulatory issues, holding significant positions such as the Chair and Deputy Chair of State and Commonwealth statutory agencies. He provides crucial legal advice to global car manufacturers regarding regulatory compliance, and to media companies on Australian regulatory matters. His advisory roles extend to Australian advertising agencies and several Commonwealth agencies on governance matters. Ian's contributions to governance and industry boards are numerous, including roles as President of the Board for Film Victoria and Deputy Chair at Screen Australia. As a committed advocate for the communications sector, he is involved with the International Institute of Communications and the Communications and Media Law Association of Australia. His academic background includes studies at the University of Melbourne with degrees in Law and Commerce, complemented by executive education at Harvard Business School. Ian’s extensive professional network and advisory roles reflect his significant influence and leadership within the legal and arts communities both nationally and internationally.