Wotton + Kearney expands government practice with new hire

Seasoned lawyer enters firm following ANZ appointment spree

Wotton + Kearney expands government practice with new hire

Legal Insights

By Roxanne Libatique

Wotton + Kearney has announced the appointment of Clare McNamara (pictured) as a partner in its Canberra office, as the firm continues to grow its government practice.

McNamara joins from Clayton Utz, bringing over 25 years of experience advising Commonwealth agencies, including the Departments of Defence, Health and Aged Care, and Infrastructure and Treasury

Wotton + Kearney’s new partner in Australia

McNamara has worked across commercial litigation, public law, and complex disputes, including liability claims, coronial inquiries, regulatory investigations, and administrative law challenges. She has also been involved in high-profile matters, including the Royal Commissions into Child Abuse and Aged Care.

“Her sector knowledge and extensive experience handling both litigated and unlitigated claims for the Commonwealth will be pivotal in shaping our service offering and the future growth of our government practice,” he said.

McNamara also holds governance roles outside her legal practice, serving as a volunteer director for Catholic Social Services Australia and the Tuggeranong United Football Club. She has been involved in pro bono work, including assisting with victims of crime compensation applications.

Wotton + Kearney’s partner and leadership promotions in 2025

McNamara joins Wotton + Kearney following the law firm’s appointment spree in January.

The firm promoted 31 lawyers across its Australian and New Zealand offices, with the changes taking effect from Jan. 1, 2025. The promotions span partner, special counsel, senior associate, and associate roles.

Two lawyers have been elevated to partner:

  • Sam Barker (Melbourne), who joins the property, energy, and infrastructure practice, focusing on construction disputes and professional liability claims.
  • Trent O’Neill (Perth), now a partner in the general liability team, advising on professional indemnity, property, recovery, and maritime claims, as well as policy interpretation and litigation.

Four lawyers have been promoted to special counsel: 

  • Diviij Vijayakumar (general liability, Perth).
  • Maddison Fairthorne (general liability, Melbourne).
  • Justin Khouri (property, energy, and infrastructure, Melbourne).
  • Ryan Owens (property, energy, and infrastructure, Sydney).

Twelve lawyers have been promoted to senior associate across Melbourne, Sydney, and Perth, covering areas such as commercial litigation, general liability, health, and workplace safety.

Additionally, 13 lawyers have advanced to associate roles across Australia and New Zealand, with expertise in areas such as cyber, financial lines, general liability, and workplace safety.

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