Special

Western Australian senator Linda Reynolds has filed a lawsuit against the federal government and HWL Ebsworth over a $2.4 million settlement with former Liberal staffer Brittany Higgins.

A judge has taken issue with an argument by disgraced solider Ben Roberts-Smith that a Nine journalist threw his solicitors "under the bus", saying it suggested the MinterEllison lawyers engaged in misconduct in the absence of an appeal claim against them.

K&L Gates has hired a White & Case partner with over 25 years of experience on major projects to join its Melbourne office.

Electricity provider Rimfire Energy has prevailed in a fight with the builders of two power plants in the Northern Territory, winning $1.4 million in damages for a four-year delay in reaching target operating dates.

Santos has secured final approval from the offshore energy regulator for its undersea Barossa gas field, dubbed by an environmental group as a "climate bomb".

An automotive law expert has joined Moray & Agnew as a partner in the firm's corporate and commercial practice.

Clyde & Co has hired a cyber pro as a partner in its Sydney office to join the firm's Cyber One team, dedicated to around-the-clock cyber support.

Herberts Smith Freehills has bolstered its real estate group, snagging a Corrs Chambers Westgarth partner with expertise in complex real estate transactions.

A survey of Property Council of Australia members has found optimism in the industry has improved, but concerns about housing supply remained a concern.

Mills Oakley has hired two new partners for its financial services and national property teams.