Mr McKenna is a commercial litigator with experience in resources, commercial and native title litigation, intellectual property and freedom of information issues.

He has advised on native title, Aboriginal heritage and environmental approvals for several large mining and infrastructure projects. The Chambers Asia-Pacific Guide ranks Mr McKenna as a 'Band 1' native title lawyer.

Michael Blakiston, Gilbert + Tobin’s national energy and resources group partner, said the appointment will significantly enhance the firm’s offering to clients in the energy and resources sector.

“Marshall is unquestionably top tier in his field and I am delighted that he is joining the firm. His expertise bolsters the firm’s capability to advise across the complete lifecycle of energy and mining projects,” he said.

Gilbert + Tobin also recently appointed three senior associates to its Perth office – Emily Tsokos, David Naoum and Patrick Tydde, in its energy and resources, corporate advisory and litigation teams respectively.

Meanwhile, partner Diane Skapinker and special counsel Vicki Aron recently left Gilbert + Tobin to join K&L Gates in Sydney.