In 2015, James Packer’s relations with Sri Lanka deteriorated when the government revoked tax breaks for a $350 million casino project, leading Packer to abandon the venture. The country’s then prime minister Ranil Wickremesinghe even declared Packer as persona non grata. Following Packer’s exit from Sri Lanka and the casino industry, Hong Kong-based Melco Resorts announced plans for a $1 billion casino project in Colombo, known as Field of Dreams. This move by Melco resonates with Packer’s own casino ventures, as the company previously agreed to purchase a stake in Crown, which was owned by Packer at the time.
With the upcoming budget week feeding frenzy in Canberra, former Labor lobbyists are expected to dominate the scene. This poses a challenging time for Liberal-aligned lobbyists, except for individuals like Christopher Pyne, who has successfully transitioned into lobbying in the defense industry post-political career. Liberal lobbying firm Barton Deakin, associated with Grahame Morris, has experienced a decline in active clients in both NSW and federally. Despite this setback, Barton Deakin remains optimistic, operating in New Zealand where Christopher Luxon recently led the conservative National Party to success. They also anticipate potential opportunities in Queensland’s upcoming election to regain business in the state.
The political cycle has impacted lobbying firms like Barton Deakin, which exclusively work with the Coalition, as voters’ decisions affect their business prospects. The parent company WPP also owns Labor-aligned Hawker Britton, which faces challenges when the political landscape shifts. Despite losing clients and shutting down offices in Canberra, Barton Deakin remains hopeful for future opportunities, particularly in New Zealand and Queensland. The firm’s operations across the ditch and potential outcomes in Queensland’s election could potentially lead to a resurgence in business for Barton Deakin.
The fluctuating fortunes of lobbying firms highlight the influence of political cycles on their activities and client base. Barton Deakin, previously associated with John Howard’s chief of staff Grahame Morris, has seen a decline in clients and offices as the political landscape changes. However, the firm remains optimistic about future prospects in regions like New Zealand and Queensland, where recent political developments could lead to new opportunities for lobbying activities. The firm’s affiliation with the Coalition and parent company WPP’s ownership of Labor-aligned Hawker Britton illustrate the interconnected nature of the political lobbying industry and its response to changing political environments.
