EXPERIENCE & EXPERTISE
Robyn currently acts for a range of insurers, licensed insurers, specialised insurers, insured entities and scheme agents. She is also the preferred legal services provider to a number of major employers.
Robyn is renowned for her particular skill in handling matters involving multi-defendant litigation and labour hire arrangements in major NSW industry sectors, including the coal and transport industries. Since 2004, she has acted on behalf of Coal Mines Insurance in over 500 litigated claims involving both workers compensation and common law disputes.
Robyn has also has demonstrated expertise across a number of associated projects in this practice area, such as undertaking scheme pilot projects, tail management projects, and claims review and audits for both insurers and employers. In addition, Robyn has frequently assisted insurers and employers to prepare submissions in relation to proposed legislative changes. She regularly presents legislative updates to clients and is also a panel speaker at various workers compensation legal update sessions for large, sector-specific employer groups such as tertiary education providers.
Robyn’s dedication to outstanding customer service, sound and practical advice on legal strategy and excellent negotiation skills are highly regarded by her clients.
In addition to her experience in private practice, Robyn worked for 10 years as in-house counsel for one of Australia’s leading workers compensation insurers.
ACCOMPLISHMENTS
Recent examples of Robyn’s experience include:
- Chaffey v MPM Maintenance Services Pty Ltd & Anor [2019] NSWDC 260 – Acted on behalf of the workers compensation insurer in a claim for damages against the labour hire employer / occupier involving a successful s151Z of the Workers Compensation Act 1987 (NSW) cross claim resulting in finalisation of the workers compensation claim on a highly commercial basis. This matter was determined by Judge Hatzistergos on 12 June 2019.
- Galluzo v J.J. Richards & Sons Pty Ltd [2018] NSWDC 165 – Acted on behalf of the employer and workers compensation insurer in District Court proceedings brought under the Motor Accidents Act 1999 (NSW) involving principles of dual insurance – culminated in a verdict for the defendant employer. This matter was determined by Judge Wilson on 22 June 2018.
- Ceccato v Australian Steel Mill Services Pty Ltd [2020] NSWWCC 131; Ceccato v Australian Steel Mill Services Pty Ltd [2020] NSWWCCPD 58 – Acted on behalf of the employer and workers compensation insurer in Workers Compensation Commission proceedings in a claim for compensation involving a psychological injury. The matter was determined by Arbitrator McDonald on 28 April 2020 with an award in favour of the respondent on the s11A defence with regards to the provision of employment benefits. The claimant’s appeal was refused by Deputy President Snell on 14 September 2020.