Commercial & Industrial Conference

In this practical and informative session, a representative from the Victorian Small Business Commission will provide valuable insights into how disputes are managed within the commercial property landscape.

The session will explore common causes of disputes and outline proactive steps that can be taken to minimise risk before issues escalate. Attendees will gain a clearer understanding of their role in preventing conflict through effective communication, strong processes, and early intervention.

It will also demystify the formal mediation process, offering guidance on how to engage effectively, what to expect, and how to achieve more productive outcomes. Whether you’re managing complex tenancies or looking to strengthen your approach to conflict resolution, this session will equip you with practical tools and greater confidence to navigate disputes professionally.

Presenter: Ben Bishop, Special Counsel at Johnson Winter Slattery

Landlords and property managers are often the first to see the warning signs of financial distress in a tenant.  Knowing what to do next is tricky.  This session will provide some practical guidance to assist the commercial decision making that follows identification of financial distress.  In the session, Ben will discuss:

   -  Managing court processes for termination of leases and re-entering premises, including the lawful removal of the tenant’s property; 
   -  The interaction of those processes with a tenant’s entry into liquidation, voluntary administration, or receivership; and
   -  Recovery of outstanding debts, particularly rental arrears.

This session focuses exclusively on commercial tenancies and does not cover retail or residential tenancies.

What does it take to stand out in commercial real estate? This panel explores the foundations of long-term success, from career growth to personal brand.

Panellists share how careers begin and the habits that truly drive results—building strong relationships, staying reliable, and consistently following through. Success is shown to come from small, repeatable actions like preparation, regular client engagement, and active listening.

For early-career professionals, the focus is on developing skills, seeking mentorship, and saying yes to opportunities, while avoiding the trap of chasing quick wins over long-term growth.
The session also reframes personal brand as more than just social media, it’s built through consistent behaviour, professionalism, and delivering value over time.

Panellists to be announced soon.