Global law firm DLA Piper has made a significant expansion to its Tax team in Australia with the appointment of three new partners and the addition of a five-member team. The move bolsters the firm’s capabilities across tax controversy, infrastructure, and international tax, reflecting its commitment to deepening expertise across key markets in the Asia-Pacific region.
Angela Wood joins as a leading tax dispute resolution and litigation partner with more than 25 years of experience. She has represented clients in landmark cases before the High Court and Federal Court and is internationally recognised for her proficiency in transfer pricing, anti-avoidance, and tax controversy. She will serve as DLA Piper’s APAC Head of Tax Controversy and will be based in Melbourne.
Brendon Lamers joins as a senior tax partner and infrastructure specialist with over 25 years of experience in the field. His expertise spans energy transition, property, and funds management, and he has advised major clients on high-profile transactions, including AirTrunk’s restructure and sell-down, AustralianSuper’s acquisition of a 50 percent stake in Ausgrid from the NSW Government, and QIC’s establishment of its natural capital fund. He has been appointed Australian Location Head for Tax and will be based in Brisbane.
Also joining the firm is Andy Bubb, an emerging leader in tax dispute resolution who focuses on international tax and transfer pricing issues, particularly those involving ATO audits and dispute resolution. He will also be based in Melbourne.
In addition to the three partners, five team members from Clayton Utz are joining DLA Piper: Alex Lebsanft (Tax Director, Brisbane); Amahl Weeramantry (Senior Associate, Melbourne); Patrick Norman (Senior Associate, Melbourne); Darcy Grace-Cannon (Solicitor, Melbourne); and Natalie Heaton (Senior Legal Assistant, Melbourne).
These strategic hires are expected to strengthen DLA Piper’s position as a leading firm in tax advisory and dispute resolution, both in Australia and globally. The expanded team will work closely with DLA Piper’s international network to deliver integrated, cross-border advice to clients operating across complex tax regimes.
KEY QUOTES:
“Angela, Brendon and Andy are outstanding additions to our global tax team. Their combined experience in tax controversy, infrastructure and international tax strengthens our ability to deliver seamless, high-value advice across jurisdictions. We are thrilled to welcome them and their team to DLA Piper and look forward to the impact they will have for our clients and our practice.”
Jacques Wantz – International Group Head of DLA Piper’s Tax practice
“We’re excited to welcome Angela, Andy, and Brendon to the team. They bring not only exceptional technical insight and experience, but also strong client relationships and a genuine commitment to collaboration both locally and globally. Their approach aligns perfectly with the kind of partners we seek: those who work together to deliver outstanding outcomes for our clients.”
Shane Bilardi – Country Managing Partner, DLA Piper Australia
