SPARKE Helmore Lawyers has joined Shipping Australia as a corporate associate member.
Sparke Helmore was established in 1882, and now has a national presence with nine offices around Australia and more than 800 employees.
The firm covers key areas of law: corporate and commercial; insurance; government; and workplace. It has more than 30 specialised areas of expertise.
Sparke Helmore has global reach through its London market practice. It has expanded its footprint into APAC and Europe through its membership of the Global Insurance Law Connect (as its sole Australian representative).
Sparke Helmore recently appointed partner Michelle Taylor to lead a specialist shipping and transport team, which works across the government and insurance practices.
Ms Taylor is an accomplished lawyer with more than 25 years’ experience as a litigator, specialising in maritime and transport law. Her casualty experience includes APL Sydney, Rena, Shen Neng and YM Efficiency.
Ms Taylor said Sparke Helmore has made the strategic decision to expand its marine offering, given its longstanding relationships with ports, government and the insurance industry.
“We look forward to working closely with Shipping Australia and its members and associates to promote the interests of the Australian shipping industry and supporting its legal needs,” she said.
Shipping Australia CEO Melwyn Noronha said the Sparke Helmore team brings extensive legal expertise and insight to the Shipping Australia family.
“[This] can only strengthen our ability to advocate for the Australian shipping industry,” he said. “We will look forward to working alongside Sparke Helmore in the pursuit of this mission and we warmly welcome them to our association.”
