Australian ADR Awards Hall of Fame

Gitanjali Bajaj is a leading figure in international dispute resolution, widely recognised for her ability to navigate the complex intersection of commercial imperatives, sovereign state interests, and public international law. As Asia-Pacific Co-Head for International Arbitration and Regional Lead of DLA Piper’s India Group in Australia, she brings over 15 years of experience advising on high-value, multibillion-dollar disputes across sectors including renewable energy, oil and gas, defence, and infrastructure. Her practice reflects a sophisticated blend of technical legal expertise and commercial awareness, allowing her to address complex, cross-border disputes with strategic precision.

Gitanjali’s career is distinguished by her involvement in precedent-setting international proceedings that have shaped global legal frameworks. She played a leading role in representing the Government of Timor-Leste in the first-ever UNCLOS Compulsory Conciliation, which successfully established permanent maritime boundaries in the Timor Sea. She is also currently acting for Pacific Island States in advisory proceedings before the International Court of Justice, contributing to the development of international law on State obligations in relation to climate change. In addition, her experience extends to advising on major defence procurement disputes and complex infrastructure transactions, highlighting her capability in both sovereign representation and commercial arbitration.

Beyond her casework, Gitanjali plays a significant leadership role in shaping the arbitration landscape in Australia and the Asia-Pacific region. As Vice President of the Australian Centre for International Commercial Arbitration, she has chaired the Appointment Committee since 2011, contributing to the integrity and credibility of arbitrator selection in international disputes. She is also at the forefront of strengthening commercial and legal ties between India and Australia, advising on cross-border trade, investment, and risk mitigation strategies. Her influence extends globally, with recognition as a Global Elite Thought Leader – Under 45, reflecting her reputation as both a strategic advisor and an emerging leader in international arbitration. Gitangali has consistently been ranked in Band 1 and Band 2 by Chambers Global and Asia-Pacific and is recognised by Legal 500 and the Arbitration Private Practice Powerlist.

Gitanjali Bajaj’s career represents the pinnacle of modern ADR practice, combining technical mastery with a deep commitment to advancing international dispute resolution, public international law, and global commercial stability.

We congratulate Gitanjali on her industry recognition in the Australian ADR Awards Hall of Fame.