LAWYER PROFILE

Harold Downes

Asia-Pacific 2026

Mills Oakley

Ranked in 1 practice area

Health & Safety

Australia

8 years ranked

About

Provided by Mills Oakley

Practice Areas

Workplace Relations, Employment & Safety

Career

Harold has more than 30 years’ experience advising in industrial relations, employment and work health and safety (WHS) regulatory law. He was one of only four “Leading Individuals” listed in the Asia-Pacific Legal 500 ‘s inaugural WHS review in 2016, a rank which he continues to hold today.

Harold is also listed as a “Pre-eminent” lawyer in Queensland by Doyle’s Guide for his WHS expertise.

Clients describe Harold as “calm and level-headed in a crisis” as well as “courageous, intelligent and focused on excellence” and an advisor whom clients “have on [their] speed-dial.”

Harold lectures at the UQ School of Earth and Environmental Science on the subjects of Crisis Management and Personal WHS Liability and the QUT Faculty of Health – Health, Safety and Environment on the subjects of Contractor Management, Crisis Management and Officer Due Diligence.

Chambers Review

Provided by Chambers

Chambers Asia & Pacific

Health & Safety - Australia

Band 2

Individual Editorial

Harold Downes is highly regarded in the market for regulatory advice and is noted for acting on high profile prosecutions.

View ranking table

Strengths

Provided by Chambers

Harold has a level of energy, enthusiasm and passion within the occupational health and safety sphere that provides an instant level of confidence and comfort when approaching industry challenges.
Health & SafetyChambers Asia & Pacific
Harold Downes's knowledge of legislation and health and safety practices is unparalleled in the industry. His willingness to question the status quo, rather than accept decisions is very refreshing.
Health & SafetyChambers Asia & Pacific