Shelley Leembruggen
PartnerAbout Shelley
Shelley is an experienced insurance and government lawyer who specialises in alternative dispute resolution, litigation and investigations for private sector insurers and Commonwealth government clients.
Shelley joined Sparke Helmore in 2010 as a graduate lawyer, fresh out of university. She was appointed to the Sparke Helmore partnership in 2023 and moved from Sydney to Canberra to lead the ACT insurance team.
Shelley has a strong commitment to community engagement and D&I. She prioritises supporting the professional and cultural development of junior colleagues through mentoring, and creating a work environment that is safe, fun and fulfilling. She is an instrumental member of Sparke Helmore’s Social Committee and works closely with the firm’s D&I and Community Committees to create inclusive events where colleagues of all demographics can connect.
What she does
Shelley has years of experience acting for both insurers and government clients in different jurisdictions, which has required her to undertake active and effective management of claims. She investigates, assesses, and makes determinations on liability in complex claims and develops focused strategies for resolution.
Shelley has advanced dispute resolution skills, having successfully negotiated compromised resolutions in many matters before they reached a substantive hearing.
Her work often involves closely analysing medical and factual evidence, interviewing witnesses, and understanding complex legislative and policy issues. Shelley provides strategic, analytical, and tailored advice to her clients at each stage of the claims process.
Shelley is pragmatic and easy to work with and uses her strong attention to detail to deliver great outcomes.
Who she works with
Shelley works closely with insurers, self-insured entities, Commonwealth government agencies and Corporate Commonwealth entities.
Qualifications
Shelley has a Bachelor of Media and a Bachelor of Laws (Hons) from Macquarie University, and a Graduate Diploma of Legal Practice from The College of Law NSW.
Life before Sparkes
Following a summer clerkship with Sparke Helmore while she was at university, Shelley joined the firm’s graduate program where she gained experience in several of the firm’s practice areas. The firm’s culture and her terrific colleagues meant Shelley completed the graduate program and never left!
Life outside of Sparkes
One of Shelley's great joys is music. She’s constantly listening to it, and delights in discovering new artists, reconnecting with old favourites, and going to gigs. When not at a gig, you’ll likely find her at a bar or restaurant with friends. Having hit almost all inner Sydney has to offer, Shelley’s keen to uncover the Canberra region’s vino and culinary delights.