Michael Pagsanjan

Michael Pagsanjan is the founder and principal of MPS Law, renowned for his significant contributions to native title and cultural heritage law in Australia. With over 16 years of dedicated experience, Michael is committed to delivering ethical, culturally respectful, and strategic legal solutions for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander clients. His approach is characterised by deep legal insight combined with practical, solution-focused advice, consistently achieving meaningful and long-lasting outcomes. Among his notable accomplishments are leading Australia’s first native title compensation consent determination and negotiating the landmark Yamatji Nation settlement. These achievements highlight his dedication to advancing the rights and interests of First Nations peoples. As a Federal Court-approved external native title mediator and a nationally accredited mediator, Michael skillfully facilitates sensitive negotiations and provides strategic advice to directors and CEOs of Aboriginal corporations on matters of native title, governance, compliance, and risk management. Michael’s expertise extends to negotiating complex native title and mining agreements, supporting Aboriginal health and education organisations, and guiding clients through regulatory challenges. His excellence in the legal profession is evident through accolades such as Native Title Partner of the Year from Lawyers Weekly in 2023 and inclusion in Doyle’s Guide and Chambers and Partners Asia-Pacific. Before founding MPS Law, Michael played significant roles in the native title and not-for-profit sectors and gained valuable experience at a major commercial law firm. His commitment to social justice and First Nations self-determination is evident in his service as a director at Nexus Arts and the Australian Refugee Association. Michael holds a Bachelor of Laws and Legal Practice with Honours and a Bachelor of International Studies from Flinders University. He has further enhanced his skills with qualifications from prestigious institutions such as Harvard Business School, RMIT University, and the Australian Mediation Association. Outside of his professional life, Michael is a devoted father to three young children and enjoys outdoor activities such as mountain biking, hiking, fishing, and camping, as well as volunteering at local sporting clubs.