Why Sparke Helmore?
As an independent Australian firm with a long history and a big heart, we have a rich story to tell. Our spirit is built on the power of relationships with our people, clients and communities.
At Sparke Helmore, you’ll be actively involved as part of a diverse, genuine and friendly team. We’ll help you harness your ambition and take your skills to new heights with exposure to outstanding clients and easy access to exceptional leaders and mentors.
Your story is yours to define. We’d like to be part of it and for you to be part of ours.
Due to growth, we have an exciting opportunity for an Associate to Senior Associate to join our Insurance team in Canberra working closely with Partner, Shelley Leembruggen.
About the team and the work
The practice has a strong blue-chip client base and will give you access to a diverse range of challenging and complex matters.
The team act on behalf of insurers, self-insured entities, and Government departments in a diverse range of public liability, historical abuse, Commonwealth workers' compensation, and CTP claims.
The team play to people's strengths and interests. We are open to candidates who have an interest or prior experience in specific areas of insurance, or who are looking to expand their expertise.
Being a litigation practice, you will have the opportunity to appear in the ACT and NSW Courts, ACAT, and the Administrative Review Tribunal.
This is a genuine opportunity for a high performing Associate looking to step up to senior associate, or an emerging Senior Associate, to work alongside leading Australian insurance lawyers in a supportive and collaborative team environment.
The team embraces working flexibly and welcome applications who are seeking flexible work arrangements (part-time minimum 3 days per week or hybrid work).
What the market says
Winner: Law Firm of the Year, Insurance, Best Lawyers, 2027
Ranked: Tier 1 Insurance Law, Best Lawyers, 2027
Ranked: Tier 2 Litigation, Best Lawyers, 2027
Finalist: Law Firm of the Year, Australian Law Awards, 2026
5‑Star Employer of Choice, 2025 – Stand Out Winner (Wellbeing and Experience)
About you
The ideal candidate will have 3+ years' experience gained from a well-regarded insurance firm with experience in defendant liability, CTP and/or historical abuse claims.
Prior experience mentoring more junior team members.
Excellent attention to detail and proactive file management skills.
Strong written and communication skills and excellent organisational ability.
Applicants with plaintiff and in-house experience are also encouraged to apply.
What Sparke Helmore can offer you
Our culture is one which values and celebrates diversity to better represent the communities in which we live and work. We encourage people from all backgrounds to join us - and bring their whole selves to work.
We recognise people value things differently. That's why our comprehensive benefits program is wide ranging so that everyone can find something that appeals to them. We're sure you will find something to love about what Sparke Helmore has to offer.
Background Screening: Successful applications will be subject to pre-employment and in some circumstances, ongoing background checks which include a criminal history check.
For further information regarding this opportunity please contact Erin Tomicic on +61 2 6263 6355.
