EXPERIENCE & EXPERTISE

A recognised national leader in the field of Commonwealth Compensation, Rosemary has advised and represented licensees under the Safety, Rehabilitation and Compensation Act 1988 (Cth) for over 25 years and continues to do so. She has managed numerous test cases that have set the boundaries of liability under the SRC and has an enviable rate of success in cases run.

In addition to her legal qualifications, Rosemary has studied units of anatomy, physiology, pathology and pharmacology and has a very good understanding of disease aetiology and process, which enables her to forensically assess the strengths and weaknesses of medical evidence. 

Rosemary has very strong interpersonal skills and the ability to assess and manage multiple issues strategically. She is frequently chosen to manage sensitive claims including claims that involve reputational risk. She has successfully managed and resolved many of such claims.

Rosemary’s interpersonal skills also come to the fore when communicating with unrepresented parties. She is able to explain complex legal and evidential issues to non-lawyers in language they understand; she believes in the importance of showing respect for all involved in litigation and takes a reasonable and fair approach to disputes; this frequently results in amicable resolutions.

ACCOMPLISHMENTS

Rosemary has managed numerous national test cases in the area of Commonwealth compensation which have included matters before the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (‘the AAT’) and the Federal Court of Australia (for example: Comcare v Etheridge (2006) 149 FCR 522) in which her client was successful before both the AAT and the Full Federal Court. This is a significant test case determining the respective liabilities of the Commonwealth and other parties for compensation for disease arising from asbestos exposure).

Rosemary is known for her thorough preparation for hearings and has an extremely high rate of success when matters do proceed to hearing.