Over the past few years, my involvement with the Australian Restructuring Insolvency & Turnaround Association (ARITA) has developed in ways I never imagined. As we approach the upcoming elections, I want to take this opportunity to reflect on the work I’ve done with ARITA, the impact it has had on both my professional journey and our industry, and why I am once again standing for the New South Wales and ACT Divisional Committee in 2025.
My personal journey with ARITA
My first introduction to ARITA came through the Introduction to Insolvency and Advanced Insolvency programs as part of my professional development. Since joining O’Brien Palmer in 2012, I have attended almost every state conference and conference dinner, as well as many national and SME conferences. These events have been invaluable in expanding my knowledge, networking with industry professionals, and staying on top of the challenges we face as insolvency and restructuring specialists.
Beyond attending events, I’ve had the privilege of giving back to the profession by presenting workshops as part of the ARITA Advanced Insolvency Program. I’ve truly enjoyed engaging with younger professionals entering the industry and sharing insights that I wish I had when I first started. Additionally, I am a presenter in the Essential Skills Program, where I speak on personal insolvency topics. It has been incredibly rewarding to contribute to the education and development of the next generation of professionals in our field.
Advocacy and Leadership
My deeper involvement with ARITA took shape in 2016 when I worked alongside ARITA CEO John Winter to lobby government representatives against the ASIC levies and user-pays system. This was a significant turning point for me. Although we were ultimately unsuccessful in preventing the levies, I walked away with a crucial lesson: if you want to influence the conversation, you need to be at the table. That experience motivated me to step up for election to the ARITA New South Wales and ACT Divisional Committee, where I was first elected in 2021, served again in 2023, and currently serving as Secretary since 2024.
As part of my role in the Divisional Committee, I’ve been involved in organising the New South Wales State Conference, which has been an incredibly rewarding experience. Bringing industry professionals together to collaborate, learn, and discuss the evolving landscape of insolvency and restructuring is something I am passionate about. I’ve also had the honour of serving as Deputy Chair of the ARITA Diversity & Inclusion Taskforce, working to ensure our industry fosters a supportive and inclusive environment for all professionals.
Additionally, I’ve been fortunate to be part of the ARITA SME Advisory Panel, where we help shape policies that support the industry as it navigates regulatory changes and economic challenges. The ability to contribute in a meaningful way to the direction of our profession has reinforced my commitment to ARITA’s mission.
The Future of Insolvency and Restructuring
The coming years will bring significant challenges and opportunities for our profession. Changing regulations, technological advancements, and evolving economic conditions will continue to shape the industry, and ARITA plays a critical role in ensuring that insolvency professionals are equipped to navigate these shifts.
As a leading organisation representing restructuring, insolvency, and turnaround professionals, ARITA provides essential training, professional development, and advocacy that directly benefit its members and the businesses they serve.
As a candidate for the New South Wales and ACT Divisional Committee in 2025, I am committed to:
✅ Strengthening ARITA’s influence in legislative and regulatory discussion
✅ Supporting education and mentoring programs for emerging professionals
✅ Advocating for fair policies that support insolvency practitioners and businesses alike
✅ Championing diversity and inclusion initiatives within our industry
Why Your Support Matters
I believe that being part of ARITA isn’t just about professional development, it’s about shaping the future of our industry. My journey has shown me the power of collaboration and advocacy, and I want to continue contributing to ARITA’s mission in a meaningful way. With your support, I hope to keep working on initiatives that will benefit both our profession and the businesses we serve.
If you are an ARITA member, I would greatly appreciate your vote for the New South Wales and ACT Divisional Committee in 2025. Let’s continue to build a stronger, more resilient profession together.
Thank you for your support!
Liam Bailey
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