Kennedys has promoted liability claims specialist Emily Unger to the Australian partnership.

Emily, who is based in Melbourne, has extensive experience in the areas of common law worker claims, statutory recoveries, public liability and property damage claims. She represents leading Australian and international insurers and acts on behalf of schools, hospitals, manufacturers, cleaning companies and host employers and occupiers.

Emily is a founding member of Kennedys Melbourne office, joining the firm in August 2017 as a senior associate and promoted to special counsel in September 2020. Over this time Emily has played an important role in growing the liability practice in Melbourne with national practice leader, Michael Kavanagh. Emily was listed as a leader in Insurance Law in Best Lawyers Australia published in April, and her promotion is in recognition of her high standing with clients and the industry.

Reflecting on her appointment Emily said "I am delighted to be joining the partnership and look forward to contributing to Kennedys' continued growth and success in Australia."

My focus will be on helping clients manage claims in a cost effective manner while ensuring that we obtain the best possible outcome. With that in mind, I am particularly excited about showing how our Kennedys IQ technology platform can help them find innovative solutions to their legal problems.

Emily is among 20 new partners appointed by Kennedys this year, taking the firm's total to 316 worldwide. In Australia, Emily's appointment means that women make up 60% of the 20-strong partnership.

Matt Andrews, managing partner of Kennedys in Australia, said: "Emily is highly respected in her field and a trusted adviser to her clients. I am delighted to welcome her to the partnership, where I know she will continue to thrive."

Kennedys global senior partner Nick Thomas added: "It is such a pleasure to see our up and coming lawyers' hard work recognised with promotion to partnership. The firm would not be where it is without the talent and tenacity of all of our lawyers in seeking the very best outcomes for our clients."

Kennedys has seen significant growth in Australia over the last 12 months including the largest ever round of partners promotions in May 2022 and opening its fourth office, in Brisbane in July 2022.