Athanasiou, who joins the firm from Rigby Cooke Lawyers, has extensive experience in all areas of direct and indirect taxation, domestic and internationally. His main area of practice is dispute resolution, particularly in the SME sector, with both the Australian Taxation Office and the State Revenue Office.

With many years of experience in complex tax litigation and tax audit negotiations and settlements, Athanasiou is also a widely published writer on taxation issues and a regular presenter at tax seminars and discussion groups.

Athanasiou, a qualified accountant, has held senior taxation and management positions in the transport and motor vehicle industries.

"Arthur will strengthen our corporate practice with his ability to advise a full range of tax clients," said chief executive partner of Thomsons Lawyers, Adrian Tembel.