Conflicting evidence—the whole is always greater than the sum of its parts
My motto: Lead a balanced life.
Sparke Helmore is a signatory to the Law Society of NSW Charter for the Advancement of Women in the Legal Profession, assisting legal practices develop workplace cultures that promote diversity and inclusion.
Bernadette Rayment
Special CounselAbout Bernadette
Bernadette is a litigator and advocate with more than 25 years' experience providing legal advice to the Commonwealth Government. She advises on merits review, judicial review and statutory interpretation, and represents clients before Royal Commissions and inquiries.
Bernadette regularly appears as an advocate in the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT), Federal Circuit Court and Federal Court.
She has extensive knowledge of the Commonwealth's operating environment, including the requirements of the Legal Services Directions and, in particular, the obligation to act as model litigant.
Bernadette works with Commonwealth entities.
Bernadette has a Bachelor of Commerce and Bachelor of Laws from the University of New South Wales. She also has a Graduate Certificate in Change Management from the Australian Graduate School of Management.
Bernadette began her career as a solicitor at the Australian Government Solicitor, where she acted for the Commonwealth in general litigation and debt recovery matters. She then worked in Sparke Helmore's Government team from 2000 to 2013.
Before re-joining Sparke Helmore in September 2017, Bernadette was Special Counsel at Mills Oakley where she worked in the Government and Administrative Law team. During this time she had carriage of hundreds of matters in the AAT, Federal Circuit Court and Federal Court.
Bernadette enjoys spending time with her large extended family. In summer you will find her at the beach and watching all forms of cricket.