Alister Bayston
Principal Lawyer
+61 3 8600 6059
abayston@aitken.com.au
Alister Bayston
Areas of Law: Business Law, Intellectual Property, Commercial Law
Qualifications: Bachelor of Arts | Bachelor of Laws
Office Location: Melbourne
Alister is an experienced commercial lawyer with over 30 years in both private practice and senior in-house legal roles. He has advised a broad range of clients—from listed corporations to fast-growing private businesses—across sectors including manufacturing, technology, construction materials and professional services. His career has included positions at leading organisations such as HWL Ebsworth, Munich Re, Australian Unity, and Smorgon Steel, where he held the role of Senior Legal Counsel.
Alister co-founded Bayston Group with his partner Leisa, building a respected commercial practice that supported entrepreneurial businesses through complex legal and structural challenges. His practical mindset, strong commercial acumen, and calm approach have earned him the trust of clients seeking clear, workable solutions in fast-moving environments.
He brings a strategic perspective to every engagement, recognising the broader context in which businesses operate. Alister is particularly adept at balancing risk and opportunity, qualities that make him a valued adviser to growth-focused enterprises.
Expertise
- Structuring and negotiating business acquisitions, sales and investment transactions
- Managing due diligence processes and advising on disclosure strategies for buyers and sellers
- Advising on intellectual property strategies including ownership structuring and licensing for risk mitigation and commercial exploitation
- Supporting manufacturing clients in securing rights across the supply and distribution chain
- Advising on brand development and protection, including trademarks, copyright, and domain name management
- Negotiating complex commercial contracts including tender submissions and supplier/customer agreements
- Advising on shareholder, founder and investor arrangements including Shareholder and Subscription Agreements
- Assisting with cross-border legal issues through collaboration with international advisers
- Conducting legal health reviews for mid-stage businesses seeking clarity and compliance
Alister is also a dedicated family man who enjoys outdoor adventures—gravel bike riding, hiking, or exploring new places with his dog. When indoors, he’s at home enjoying good company, great films, and visual arts.