New Canberra appointments boost Government Services capability

9 February 2010

New appointments to Sparke Helmore's Canberra office, announced today, significantly expand the Firm's legal services offering to the Commonwealth and demonstrate its ongoing commitment to the Canberra market.

Formerly with Clayton Utz, the new team is led by Partner Richard Morrison, and includes Special Counsel Holly McAdam, and Lawyers Diana Navarro and Elizabeth Skelly.

The team has significant expertise in major projects, having acted on numerous high profile initiatives undertaken by the Commonwealth in recent years. The team brings a real depth of skill and experience in the areas of tendering and contract law, including in relation to major acquisition and sustainment programs, information and communications technology matters, broadband and satellite technologies, major project disputes, and Defence.

"We have a sound reputation in Canberra, especially in the areas of procurement, legal and probity services, Federal litigation, and Commonwealth compensation. The addition of Richard and his team substantially expands that capability, and demonstrates our commitment to our Commonwealth clients," says National Managing Partner Mr Jesse Webb.

"We are delighted to have joined Sparke Helmore," says Richard Morrison. "Of all the firms in this market, I believe that Sparke Helmore is best placed to provide the level of excellence demanded by the Commonwealth, across the range of legal services that government requires."

About Sparke Helmore

Sparke Helmore is a leading Australian-based national law firm providing specialist services to national and multinational corporations, financial institutions and governments. Having celebrated 125 years' continuous service in 2007, the firm is staffed by almost 600 people including 50 partners, 58 special counsel and over 110 lawyers and law clerks.