DLA Piper bolsters Tax team in Australia with three partner hires and team

Global law firm DLA Piper has bolstered its Tax team in Australia with three key lateral hires along with a team of five.  

Angela Wood is a market-leading tax dispute resolution and litigation partner with over 25 years of experience. She has led landmark cases before the High Court and Federal Court and is globally recognised for her expertise in transfer pricing, anti-avoidance and tax controversy. Her arrival significantly enhances DLA Piper's tax controversy capability, and she has been appointed as the firm's APAC Head of Tax Controversy. Angela will be based in the firm's Melbourne office.

Brendon Lamers is a senior tax partner and infrastructure specialist with deep experience across energy transition, property and funds. He has more than 25 years' experience in the industry advising on tax issues in infrastructure, property and mergers and acquisitions. Notable work includes counselling AirTrunk on the restructure and sell-down last year, AustralianSuper on its 50 per cent acquisition of Ausgrid from the NSW State Government and QIC on the establishment of its natural capital fund. Brendon has been appointed as Australian Location Head for Tax and will be based in the firm's Brisbane office.

Andy Bubb is an emerging leader in tax dispute resolution. He specialises in contentious international tax and transfer pricing matters, with a focus on ATO audits and dispute resolution. Andy will be based in the firm's Melbourne office.

Angela, Brendon, and Andy are joined by five additional team members from Clayton Utz: 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). 

Jacques Wantz, International Group Head of DLA Piper's Tax practice commented: "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."

Shane Bilardi, Country Managing Partner, DLA Piper Australia, added: "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."