She has spent the last 11 years at QIC, including as a general counsel since early 2019. She has also worked at the Department of Public Works for the Queensland government and with BigLaw firm Linklaters.

Swift has experience in fund advisory work and client mandates, HSF said in a statement, and has worked on the establishment of numerous new global funds, including the establishment of a Luxembourg-domiciled global asset fund in 2023 and a Delaware-domiciled private assets fund in 2016.

She will be based in the firm’s Brisbane office.

The news follows the firm’s appointment of an Australian as joint managing partner of its global corporate practice in February and its promotion of four within its alternative legal services practice in January.

Speaking about her new role, Swift said: “The demand for our expertise among the real estate industry has never been greater. Inflation, higher interest rates, planning roadblocks and climate change are creating new challenges as well as opportunities for investors and developers across the country and overseas.

“I’m excited to collaborate with the team to assist our clients in navigating the dynamic landscape ahead.”

HSF real estate managing partner Luke Simpson added: “I’ve had the pleasure of working closely with Katrina over many years.

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“Katrina’s extensive experience in the creation, reshaping and management of global asset funds, along with her outstanding advisory work across a large portfolio of real estate assets, will only bolster our leading practice and ensure our clients continue to be represented by the best legal practitioners in the industry.”