Martin O’Connor
Partner
"I apply the principles and processes of Australia’s employment laws in a way so as to deliver the best commercial and practical solution for the client."
Martin’s practice is essentially litigation and dispute management specialising in employment law matters and disputes. He has over 30 years’ experience in conducting a diverse range of major and complex litigation matters, arbitrations, mediations and conciliations in Courts and Tribunals throughout Australia.
Martin provides advice and assistance to employers in relation to all aspects of managing their employment and associated relationships, including acting for the employer in employment and related litigation matters before both Courts, arbitrations and tribunals, including the Fair Work Commission and the Australian Human Rights Commission.
Martin has considerable experience in relation to advising corporations in relation to senior executive payouts and termination.
Martin regularly advises employers regarding their compliance and obligations with respect to workplace health and safety laws.
Martin is regularly rated as a leading Australian litigation practitioner in various legal publications, including being named continuously from 2013 to present in “Best Lawyers in Australia” for litigation, as published in the Australian Financial Review.
Martin is also a Notary Public.
Arbitration and subsequent Federal Court of Australia proceedings — acted for a company against former independent contractors in respect of their breach of their post-termination restraints.
Australian Human Rights Commission and New South Wales Anti-Discrimination Board — acted for various employers in proceedings commenced by employees alleging discrimination in the workplace.
District Court of New South Wales — acted for companies in prosecutions under the Workplace Health & Safety Act 2011 (NSW).
Fair Work Commission — acted for various employers in numerous unfair dismissal proceedings under the Fair Work Act 2009 (Cth).
Federal Circuit Court of Australia — acted for various employers in numerous adverse action claims under the Fair Work Act 2009 (Cth).
Federal Court of Australia — acted for an employee in successfully opposing an injunction seeking to restrain him from working for a competing business.
Federal Court of Australia — acted for a company against a former employee with respect to the mis-use of the company's confidential client information.
Supreme Court of New South Wales — acted in proceedings for employers and employees in relation to the enforcement and opposing enforcement of post-termination restraints.
Recognition
Best Lawyers in Australia™ — Litigation — 2013 - 2023
Committees and memberships
Member, Intellectual Property Society of Australia and New Zealand
Member, Society of Notaries of NSW, Inc
Industries
Energy & Resources
Entertainment
Gambling
Infrastructure
Professional Services