Ms Rowe specialises in IP licensing, commercialisation and advice as well as government contracting and procurement, according to a statement from Sparkes, while Mr Nicholls’ expertise is in providing advice on contracting and commercial issues relating to high-profile and strategically important information and communication technology projects, the firm said.

Meanwhile, Ms Westcot brings broad commercial law experience to her new role, and is skilled in providing strategic legal and probity advice on procurement contracting and competitive grants, the statement explained.

“We are excited that Sharon, Ben and Liana have made the move to Sparke Helmore. We are a pre-eminent national firm in the government space with great breadth of expertise and these new partners will enrich an already sizeable team and bring new skills to the table,” Sparkes national managing partner Phillip Salem said.

“These high-calibre partners also highlight our relentless focus on growing and diversifying our national team and providing exceptional value-add service to our clients.”