Michael Palfrey and Sam Dundas will commence at HWL Ebsworth as partners in its national litigation team.

Mr Palfrey joins HWL Ebsworth from Sparke Helmore, and will take to his new role within the firm’s Canberra team. He brings with him over 15 years’ experience in merits and judicial review proceedings, as well as commercial disputes.

Mr Palfrey has represented Commonwealth government departments and agencies during his career, and also advised government clients on all aspects of administrative law, including statutory interpretation, legislative development, information law issues, privacy and secrecy advice.

Meanwhile, Mr Dundas joins HWL Ebsworth’s Perth team from Herbert Smith Freehills, where he was an executive counsel.

Mr Dundas offers a broad litigation practice, with expertise in advising clients in the mining, resources and energy sectors. He also specialises in banking, contentious insolvency and corporate restructuring.

“We are delighted that many of Australia’s most impressive legal practitioners continue to recognise that our firm offers the ideal foundation for the next stage of their career, irrespective of the practitioner’s particular degree of experience. Michael and Sam are perfect examples of this,” said Juan Martinez, managing partner of HWL Ebsworth.

“Michael’s expertise is extremely highly regarded across the Commonwealth government departments and agencies, and his appointment will be instrumental in our continued push to build Australia’s premier administrative law offering.

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“Sam is an outstanding addition to the commercial litigation and restructuring/insolvency team that we have been building across Australia. Sam’s passion for assisting clients is evident to all who have worked with him, and we are excited to welcome him to the team.”

HWL Ebsworth also announced the appointment of Graeme Dennis, who will join the firm’s Sydney office as a partner within its energy and resources team.

Mr Dennis has advised on the development and acquisition of a range of energy projects, including power stations, gas pipelines, solar PV, energy storage and wind farms.

His industry knowledge extends to energy market regulation and reform, having advised energy producers and government departments on a number of regulatory matters.

Mr Dennis’ appointment comes as HWL Ebsworth looks to meet client demand within this area.

“The energy market is facing significant challenges at present, however this is a sector in which we will continue to invest,” Mr Martinez said.

“Despite the continued economic uncertainty, the increasing appetite for energy and the need for long-term security of supply provide considerable opportunities for growth for our firm.

“Graeme brings specialist industry focus, contacts and experience, and his recruitment further extends the capability of our already strong team.”