The appointment marks a significant coup for Corrs, with van Brakel's litigation expertise covering commercial litigation specialising in major projects, engineering, resources and contractual disputes - as well as a former career with the Office of Public Prosecutions.

van Brakel has also advised on a number of key deals recently, including acting for Fortescue Metals Group, as well as advising a US company on a dispute regarding a long-term mineral supply contract.

Corrs will also benefit from van Brakel's work as a member of the Law Council of Australia's executive group of the Federal Litigation Section .