John Brewster
Partner, Practice Head, Corporate Transactions (APAC)
Melbourne
-
Overview
Introduction
John has advised on a number high-profile and complex M&A transactions for public and private companies and private equity firms for 20 years.
John Brewster has advised local and foreign companies, PE firms and major banks in the Australian market on a range of transactions including takeovers, mergers, capital raisings, public and private acquisitions and divestments and JVs, including on numerous cross-border transactions.
John is widely regarded as one of the go to lawyers for running large or complex competitive sale processes in Australia, and is ranked in all leading directories (including Chambers & Partners Legal 500 Asia-Pacific Best Lawyer and IFLR 1000) and was voted by peers to win Best Lawyers award for the Best Corporate Lawyer in Melbourne 2024.
John has led the Corporate Practice (which includes the M&A, private equity, ECM and funds teams) in Australia since 2022.
He holds a Bachelor of Commerce and Bachelor of Laws from at the University of Melbourne.
"Our lead, John Brewster, is exceptional. He is our trusted advisor…We go to him because he is outstanding. He is at the top of the market."
Client quote, Corporate M&A, Chambers Asia-Pacific 2026
"John Brewster is one of the best lawyers in his field. When we need his full attention, he helps us through quite complex situations. He and his firm and colleagues go above and beyond for us."
Client quote, Corporate M&A, Chambers Asia-Pacific 2026
"He is professional, proactive and provides end-to-end service. He provides good advice and detailed, technical work. A complete and excellent package"
Client quote, Corporate M&A, Chambers Asia-Pacific 2025
"He's very commercial, thinks outside the box, has exceptional capabilities and is tenacious." Client quote, Corporate M&A, Chambers Asia Pacific 2025
Latest thinking
Carousel: clicking the "Previous" or "Next" button changes the content between the buttons.
-
Quickguides
Takeovers in Australia
March 12, 2026
Discover more -
Business Insight
Australian Public M and A Deal Report 2026
February 26, 2026
Discover more -
Thought leadership
Exit stage left? The Takeovers Panel considers de-listing proposals
August 27, 2025
Discover more -
Legal development
Annual Reports and AGMs – Timeline and checklist for ASX listed companies
June 02, 2025
Discover more -
Business Insight
The M&A Deal Report 2025 - An analysis of Australia public mergers and acquisitions
March 26, 2025
Discover more
Latest news, deals and awards
Carousel: clicking the "Previous" or "Next" button changes the content between the buttons.