Kelly Matheson
Special CounselAbout Kelly
Kelly joined Sparke Helmore in 2024 bringing eight years’ experience as a government lawyer specialising in privacy and secrecy law. Her expertise lies in working on complex digital projects supporting her clients to deliver solutions which place privacy at the centre.
What she does
Kelly supports clients across the public and private sectors maintain their compliance with applicable privacy law. She regularly advises Government on privacy and secrecy law matters and prepares privacy impact assessments in relation to the design and implementation of complex digital projects. Kelly has also conducted privacy impact assessments for State and Territory government clients for the implementation of new government initiatives.
Kelly’s experience also includes assisting clients, both domestic and international, respond to data breaches and regularly advising on privacy governance issues.
Kelly’s experience to date has equipped her with the skills to provide pragmatic advice and solutions to the most complex of legal issues.
Who she works with
Kelly predominantly works with Commonwealth and State Government entities.
Qualifications
Kelly holds a Bachelor of Law from the University of New England and Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice from the College of Law.
Kelly also holds a Bachelor of Arts (Asian Studies) from the University of Queensland and has spent two years studying and living in Japan.
Life before Sparkes
Kelly spent three years as an in-house lawyer at the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) before moving into private practice. Prior to working as a lawyer, Kelly spent 15 years working in various roles in the Australian Public Service including roles with DFAT, the Department of Home Affairs and the Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet.
Life outside of Sparkes
Kelly generally spends her free time catching up with friends or in the outdoors, exercising, camping, skiing, going to the beach and travelling.