Despot joins the firm from the compliance and enforcement division of WorkSafe Victoria, where she was involved in the conduct of prosecutions, advising on compliance with accident compensation laws in Victoria, and conducting training on legal risk management.

"[Despot] brings a unique perspective on the occupational health and safety regulatory regime in Victoria, at a time when companies and senior officers in Victoria have faced a record total of fines for health and safety breaches," said Paul Cutrone, partner and head of the firm's national occupational health and safety practice.

The appointment expands Sparke Helmore's workplace capability to 38 lawyers including 9 partners nationally.