Associate, Commercial Insurance

SHL; Sydney; On-site; AUD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

Sparke Helmore is seeking an Associate to join the Casualty team in Sydney. You will work with national and international insurers on public liability matters, including historical abuse and personal injury claims, with support from partners and leaders.

The role offers flexibility and a collaborative environment, with opportunities for growth and exposure to challenging matters. A strong focus on client service and teamwork is essential for success in this high-calibre practice.

Qualifications

• The ideal candidate will have at least 2 years’ experience from a well-regarded insurance team with experience in defendant liability and abuse claims.
• Excellent attention to detail and strong organisation skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Applicants with plaintiff and in-house experience are also encouraged to apply.

Responsibilities

• Assist on public liability matters including historical abuse and personal injury claims.
• Work with national and international insurers on public liability matters.
• Collaborate with Partners and the team to manage complex claims.

Skills

Attention to detail

Excellent communication

Job description

Why Sparke Helmore?

As an independent Australian firm with a long history and a big heart, we have a rich story to tell. Our spirit is built on the power of relationships with our people, clients and communities.

At Sparke Helmore, you’ll be actively involved as part of a diverse, genuine and friendly team. We’ll help you harness your ambition and take your skills to new heights with exposure to outstanding clients and easy access to exceptional leaders and mentors.

Your story is yours to define. We’d like to be part of it and for you to be part of ours.

We have an exciting opportunity for an Associate to join our Casualty team in Sydney working with Partner, Emily McKeowen.

About the team and the work

• You will be working with national and international insurers, self-insured entities and government agencies on public liability matters, with a focus on historical abuse and personal injury claims.
• The practice has a strong blue-chip client base, and you will have access to a range of challenging and complex matters.
• The team embraces working flexibly and therefore we welcome applications from candidates who are looking for flexibility in their next role.
• You will be supported by a high-performing and collaborative team with access to Partners who will be invested in you and your growth.

What the market says

• Best Law Firms 2027 ranked by Best Lawyers: Law Firm of the Year, Insurance Law.

• Best Law Firms 2027 ranked by Best Lawyers: Regional Tier 1 Ranking for Insurance Law, Personal Injury Litigation, and Product Liability (Sydney).

• 2026 Doyle’s Guide Ranking: Emily McKeowen recognised as Leading Public & Product Liability Lawyer (Defendant).

• Finalist: Lawyers Weekly Australian Law Awards - Law Firm of the Year, 2024, 2025 & 2026.

• The Australasian Lawyer 5-Star Employer of Choice.

About you

• The ideal candidate will have at least 2 years’ experience from a well-regarded insurance team with experience in defendant liability and abuse claims.
• Excellent attention to detail and strong organisation skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Applicants with plaintiff and in-house experience are also encouraged to apply.

What Sparke Helmore can offer you

Our culture is one which values and celebrates diversity to better represent the communities in which we live and work. We encourage people from all backgrounds to join us - and bring their whole selves to work.

We recognise people value things differently. That’s why our comprehensive benefits program is wide ranging so that everyone can find something that appeals to them. We’re sure you will find something to love about what Sparke Helmore has to offer.

Background Screening: Successful applications will be subject to pre-employment and in some circumstances, ongoing background checks which include a criminal history check.

For further information regarding this opportunity please contact Anthony Demarco on [phone].