Damien van der Toorn

Damien van der Toorn is a distinguished Partner and co-founder of Lexbridge, recognised for his proficiency in developing intricate agreements and legislation. With a focus on conducting high-stakes negotiations and managing comprehensive government legal reforms, Damien's work spans key sectors such as defence and security, trade and investment, maritime and aviation, as well as environmental and climate change initiatives. He has provided counsel on multi-billion-dollar defence capability programs across land, air, and sea, and has been instrumental in crafting security frameworks within the Asia-Pacific region. His advisory roles have extended to significant international agreements, including contributions to the Kyoto Protocol and the Paris Agreement on climate change, pivotal free trade agreements with nations such as China, Korea, and Japan, alongside the Trans-Pacific Partnership. Damien's experience is underpinned by his tenure as a Principal Lawyer at the Attorney-General's Department in Australia, having contributed to critical reforms in Australia's maritime enforcement and supported global initiatives like the ban on cluster munitions. His expertise encompasses military deployments in conflict zones such as Iraq, Afghanistan, and Timor Leste, underscoring his depth of knowledge in international law and governmental operations. Holding a Master of Laws in Public International Law from The London School of Economics and Political Science, and dual honours degrees in International Relations and Law from The University of Queensland, Damien's educational background complements his extensive professional journey. His early career included roles at prominent law firms such as Picton Howell in London and Allens Arthur Robinson in Brisbane. Damien began his legal career as a Judge's Associate at the Supreme Court of Queensland, setting the foundation for his impressive legal trajectory.