b'Sydney Morning Herald, 23 April 1987.The idea was to create an exclusive agency alliance offeringOn 1 July 1987 the Australian Legal Group became the benefits of a national network without the conflicts operational, creating the largest legal network in Australia, of interest, cost and disruption of a formal merger. On with offices in Japan, London, New York and Singapore and 22 April 1987 the formation of the Australian Legal Groupplans to open further international offices on a joint venture was announceda nationwide network of independent legalbasis. The following year Canberra firm Macphillamy practices. Together they would provide clients with nationalCummins & Gibson joined the group.service and access to a large pool of diverse legal talent. The firms would combine their purchasing power and share skills, staff and technology. Each firm preserved its autonomy and strong sense of identity, retaining the right to act in competition with other member firms. 193'