Government

Ashurst has a market-leading practice, notable for its representation of an impressive range of departments at various levels of government across Australia. The firm is noted for its multidisciplinary teams, often staffed by lawyers with in-house experience of the public sector, which provide expertise across a broad range of sectors, including financial services, work health and safety, and insurance. The practice is additionally able to bring to bear expertise acquired working on government projects in various South-East Asian jurisdictions and in Europe. The firm's notable clients include the Australian Taxation Office, the State Government of Tasmania and Sydney Metro.

"Ashurst's advice is well considered and displays a thorough understanding of the legal and commercial issues and complexities related to the matters they are advising on."

"Ashurst has almost entirely been engaged in highly complex matters and has successfully provided positive outcomes."

Ashurst advised Victoria 2026, the organising committee for the 2026 Commonwealth Games, on its procurement and contractual agreements.

Paul Vane-Tempest is highly regarded for his experience acting for the Commonwealth Government and for public bodies. He is noted for his expertise in relation to employment and health and safety matters. "Paul Vane-Tempest in Melbourne is extremely competent and a great talker as well."

Steve McKinney regularly acts for departments of the Commonwealth Government, most notably the Department of Defence, which he advises in relation to procurement, contracting and infrastructure projects. "Steve provides excellent legal commercial and, specifically, contracting advice."

Angela Summersby is noted for her experience acting for the Commonwealth Government on technology, procurement and contracting matters.

Sarah Ross-Smith has experience acting for government departments and agencies at both a Commonwealth and state level. She provides advice on a range of matters, including material procurement projects, government schemes and governance issues for public bodies. "Sarah's commercial knowledge is excellent. This, and her ability to communicate with people of all diversity, supports her being very well regarded and respected."

Jon Lovell acts for Commonwealth, state and territory government clients, and is particularly noted for his work in relation to employment and industrial relations matters. "Jon strikes the right balance of being strong technically whilst having the ability to recognise and provide advice with sound commercial results."