Maddocks has appointed two Special Counsel to its growing Real Estate and Probity teams in Canberra, building the depth of expertise and reinforcing the leading reputation of the firm’s Government Sector.

Chloe Costas has joined the firm’s Real Estate team. She has significant experience from her time at Minter Ellison (Australia) and Eversheds Sutherland (UK) across a range of property matters, having advised on major leasing and acquisition and disposal transactions as well as development work across commercial, industrial and build-to-rent residential properties across Australia and internationally. Chloe’s work in these areas includes advising large corporate landlords, tenants including government tenants, investors, and property developers.

Sarah Pearce has joined the Probity team from Proximity. Sarah has extensive experience in probity, commercial law and procurement, having provided critical insights and advice to government clients on large complex procurements and grants processes.

Prior to joining Maddocks, Sarah built and led the probity practice at Proximity where she advised many Commonwealth and ACT Government clients on a range of probity and integrity issues. Sarah has significant experience drafting probity frameworks, advising on conflicts of interests, advising on industry briefings and industry consultation as well as in relation to multi-stage, complex and sensitive procurements. Sarah is known for working collaboratively and closely with clients, and for her practical and solutions-based approach to probity and legal issues.

The new appointments take the number of special counsel to eight for the Canberra team.

Maddocks' work for government spans 140 years, underscoring the firm’s dedication to this sector. The scale of government work, the depth of teams, and the focus on strategically important matters have set Maddocks apart.

Commenting on the appointments, the firm’s Commonwealth Sector Leader, Simonetta Astolfi said: “We are delighted to welcome Chloe and Sarah to our team. Their expertise across real estate and strategic probity and process will significantly enhance our capabilities and help us continue to provide our clients with exceptional legal support”.

“These appointments reflect our commitment to investing in our people and ensuring we have the right teams in place to deliver on strategically important matters. Our clients will greatly benefit from Chloe and Sarah's insights and experience."