In addition, Sparke Helmore Lawyers has promoted eight to special counsel roles and 19 to senior associate positions. Sixty-five per cent of this year’s promotions are women, the firm noted.

As per a statement provided, Ms Bortone advises clients on Commonwealth statutory classes of insurance claims, acting for insurers, self-insurers, employers, government agencies and companies and “has extensive experience managing litigated matters and providing strategic pre-litigation advice to clients”.

Ms Gruschka is described as an experienced workplace lawyer who advises on employment and work health and safety (WHS) issues for clients in diverse sectors, including mining, transport, financial services, insurance, health care and government. Ms Gruschka’s practice sees her work with chief executives, HR and WHS executives and operations managers, “guiding them through difficult situations, ranging from internal investigations and disciplinary matters to unfair dismissal and general protections claims”, the statement noted.

Meanwhile, Ms Simmons is an accredited specialist in local government and planning law and also practises environment law. Her work sees her assist clients to understand their statutory obligations and to solve legal problems arising in the local government, planning or environment fields. 

“I’m so proud to see the appointment of Anella, Emma and Naomi to our growing partnership. For such outstanding people, from different practice groups, to come through our ranks just demonstrates the depth of talent that we have been developing nationally, said Phillip Salem, Sparke Helmore’s national managing partner.

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“In fact, these three exceptionally talented lawyers – who are recognised as leaders in their respective areas of law and who are also wonderful people – have each been part of the Sparke Helmore family since shortly after their admission to practice.”