Mike Vacy-Lyle, Group Executive, Business Banking, Commonwealth Bank of Australia

30 Mar 2026

The exclusive executive discussion featured Mike Vacy-Lyle, Group Executive, Business Banking at Commonwealth Bank of Australia, who shared perspectives on the evolving landscape for Australia’s small and medium-sized enterprises. The conversation examined current economic conditions, growth opportunities and the key challenges shaping businesses across different stages of growth.

The discussion explored the impact of regulatory change, interest rates, inflation and rising business costs, alongside opportunities to improve innovation and productivity. Participants also considered the role of AI in supporting small businesses, as well as the evolving manufacturing and defence sectors, including technology adoption, shifting demand and Australia’s push for greater sovereign capability.

Overall, the session provided practical insights into the factors shaping Australian businesses in 2026 and the opportunities to start, grow and scale in an increasingly complex business environment.

The Venue

Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer ANZ Tower, 161 Castlereagh Street Sydney NSW 2000

Image Gallery

Event Speakers

Mike Vacy-Lyle

Group Executive, Business Banking

Commonwealth Bank of Australia

Event Partners

Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer

Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer (HSF Kramer) is one of the world’s leading global law firms, advising organisations on complex transactions, disputes, regulatory matters and strategic challenges across major international markets. In Australia, the firm has offices in Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane and Perth, providing a full range of commercial legal services across sectors including financial services, consumer, energy, infrastructure, mining, private capital, real estate and technology. HSF Kramer’s Melbourne office has been part of the city’s commercial community since 1853 and is one of the firm’s largest offices globally. The team works with leading Australian and international organisations on significant transactions, contentious matters and emerging areas including digitalisation and legal technology. Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer was formed in June 2025 through the combination of Herbert Smith Freehills and Kramer Levin, creating a global firm of approximately 2,700 lawyers across 26 offices.