John Kavanagh

John Kavanagh is an accomplished Legal Practice Director, Principal Solicitor, and Master Mariner with an extensive career spanning over 30 years in the maritime industry. His journey began after obtaining a Master’s Certificate of Competency, leading to commanding roles and a focus on maritime law, auditing, and consultancy. John's unique expertise is built upon his diverse experience across merchant shipping, dredging, government, defence, and commercial law. John's maritime career included serving in all ranks within the merchant navy, culminating as Master on notable vessels such as the MV Iron Pacific. He played pivotal roles in major Australian marine projects, including the Wheatstone and Ichthys LNG projects. Presently, he serves as a reservist in the Royal Australian Navy, adding a military dimension to his extensive maritime experience. His transition to land-based roles saw him excel in both corporate and government sectors, notably as a senior executive at Maritime Safety Queensland. Here, he demonstrated leadership as Executive Director Maritime Services and acted in various other pivotal positions. At McCullough Robertson Lawyers in Brisbane, he honed his litigation skills. Recognised for his achievements in seamanship, casualty response, legal services, and regulatory compliance, John offers well-rounded and practical maritime legal counselling. As the principal of Pacific Maritime Lawyers, he founded a practice that uniquely blends legal services with maritime industry expertise, serving domestic and international clients. His firm handles diverse legal matters, from ship repair claims to vessel chartering contracts and the purchase of multi-million dollar vessels. John's educational background complements his extensive practical experience. He possesses a Diploma of Applied Science (Nautical Science) from the Australian Maritime College and a Bachelor of Laws from Deakin University, alongside advanced legal qualifications from the Australian National University. Admitted to practice in both Queensland and the High Court of Australia, he is also a certified Maritime Safety Management System Auditor and an active member of the Royal Australian Navy Reserve. As of 2023, John serves as a Notary Public in New South Wales, adding to his extensive legal capabilities.