Dianne Banks

Biography

Dianne is a partner and the head of our Employment group.

She provides advice on employment law, from the commencement of the employment relationship to termination. Her approach is to achieve practical and commercially sound solutions for her clients, addressing the many and varied issues confronting employers in the Australian workplace.

Dianne collaborates with clients to create effective strategies that minimise risk, protect employer interests, and guarantee compliance with applicable legislation. She provides advice on major workplace change, WHS incident management, investigations (including whistleblower), compliance and the management of breaches, high-profile sensitive executive employment issues, and representing clients in court proceedings. Additionally, Dianne advises directors on how to discharge their duties including in relation to their personal due diligence obligation under WHS legislation.

Dianne's diverse client base includes government authorities, public and private companies, and senior executives. Her work spans many industries, such as private equity, technology, funds management, medical device, pharmaceutical, and entertainment industries.

Dianne has appeared in all courts and tribunals where employment-related disputes are litigated – including the Australian Human Rights Commission, Fair Work Australia, State Supreme Courts, the Federal Circuit Court, and the Federal Court of Australia.

Experience

Dianne’s experience includes advising:

  • One of the Big 4 Banks as investigator in relation to a significant whistleblower investigation in relation to alleged misconduct (including breach of the Corporations Act) involving 7 respondents.

  • A large retailer in relation to claims of sexual harassment, sex discrimination, a hostile work environment and breaches of work health and safety legislation brought by two employees.

  • A large multinational agribusiness in relation to a complex and sensitive executive termination following an internal investigation into alleged misconduct.

  • A major Australian automotive dealer, in relation to a workplace fatality and subsequent prosecution.

    § A global manufacturer in the materials processing industry in securing freezing orders over the assets of its former CEO and Managing Director in respect of his fraudulent conduct.

  • A large education provider in relation to an investigation by the Fair Work Ombudsman following a self-disclosure of historical underpayments.

  • A leading global private equity firm on the $2.2 billion acquisition of an ASX listed entity by scheme of arrangement.

Awards

  • Best Lawyers 2025

    Recognised for Labour and Employment Law

  • Chambers Asia-Pacific 2024

    Ranked for Employment: New South Wales

  • Doyle’s Guide 2023

    Recognised as a Leading Employment Lawyer