Laura Beattie

Laura Beattie is a dedicated partner at Sparke Helmore, having joined the Sydney office in May 2014. With over 25 years of experience as a workers' compensation practitioner, she has developed a strong reputation for providing exceptional legal services to self and specialised insurers over the past nine years. Laura possesses profound knowledge of industry-specific legislation and jurisdiction, making her an invaluable asset to her clients. She adeptly represents clients in various courts, including the Personal Injury Commission, the District Court of NSW, the Supreme Court of NSW, and the NSW Court of Appeal. As an experienced advocate, Laura handles statutory workers' compensation claims, work injury damages, and coal mining litigation with skill and precision. Her expertise extends to advising on liability issues concerning injury, causation, incapacity, and entitlements, always with a strategic focus on achieving early resolution when suitable. Laura has successfully defended complex claims and work injury damages, including significant matters within the scheme. Notably, she managed a case for a Treasury Managed Fund client, achieving a successful outcome in the Court of Appeal in a crucial section 11A dispute, which has become a reference point for the application of section 11A in psychological injury claims. Her focus on self-insurers enables Laura to deliver comprehensive business solutions, tailoring her approach to each client's needs. A skilled negotiator, she employs alternative dispute resolution techniques in settlement conferences, conciliations, and mediations. Laura is committed to sharing her expertise, regularly conducting workshops and providing in-house training on workers' compensation, legislative updates, and best practices in claims management. Her training initiatives include guidance on legislative changes, standards of practice, and developing precedents for clients.