MEDIA STATEMENT

On 7 August 2026, the Supreme Court of New South Wales granted a protective cost order to Professor Brendan Lyon who is challenging the validity of the CA ANZ Professional Standards Scheme. 

The order limits Professor Lyon’s liability for CA ANZ’s legal costs to $25,000. In granting the order, the Court considered that the proceedings raise public interest issues relating to the Scheme.

It is important to note that this decision relates only to legal costs and does not determine the substantive issues raised in the proceedings, which are ongoing. The Scheme remains in force and continues to operate. 

CA ANZ’s Professional Standards Scheme plays a vital role in protecting consumers by ensuring access to insurance-backed compensation when a professional services engagement results in a court-awarded damages claim for loss.  

The Scheme does not limit liability for damages arising from a breach of trust, fraud or dishonesty. 

As the proceedings are ongoing it is inappropriate to comment any further. We strongly encourage media to refer to this explainer when researching and reporting on this matter.