Matthew Hawker
PartnerAbout Matthew
Matthew is a Partner in our Government - Public and Regulatory practice. His practice focuses on Government administrative and regulatory law litigation and Commonwealth compensation claims, providing strategic advice and representation in merits review and judicial review matters. Matthew has extensive experience appearing as a solicitor-advocate in hearings before the Administrative Review Tribunal (formerly the Administrative Appeals Tribunal), the Federal Circuit and Family Court and the Federal Court of Australia.
Matthew has also undertaken multiple Agency secondments throughout his career. His specialised technical knowledge is coupled with a thorough and highly effective approach, enabling Matthew and his team to deliver robust strategic solutions and strong litigation outcomes for clients.
Matthew is listed as a Leading Administrative and Public Lawyer in Doyle’s Guide 2025.
What he does
Matthew regularly appears as solicitor-advocate in hearings before the Administrative Review Tribunal (ART) and before the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia (FCFC) and Federal Court of Australia (FCA).
He also provides legal advice and representation in the statutory interpretation of various pieces of Commonwealth legislation, weighing in on the scope of liability and obligations under the applicable legislation and regulatory setting.
Who he works with
Matthew primarily works with Australian insurers, self-licensees and Commonwealth Government clients.
Qualifications
Matthew has a Bachelor of Laws (Hons) degree.
Life before Sparkes
Matthew joined Sparke Helmore a year before being admitted. He previously worked in property settlements and was an articled clerk in a commercial team at a Gold Coast law firm.
Life outside of Sparkes
Matthew is a keen cyclist and enjoys playing other sports, including tennis. He adores spending time with his wife, three children and wider family and getting out for a cycle whenever he can. Matthew also enjoys watching the Brisbane Lions play and following the Tour de France in July each year.
