Promotions are up. But so is poaching. 

Australia’s leading firms are growing their partnerships in 2025 — rewarding homegrown talent while raiding rivals in record numbers.

Here’s how this year’s partner season unfolded.

Corrs Chambers Westgarth topped the charts with 13 new partners — a huge jump from 4 last year.

MinterEllison and Clayton Utz weren’t far behind, promoting 12 and 11, respectively.

But mid-tier firms made their mark.

Hall & Wilcox and Lander & Rogers promoted 11 and 10 partners, matching or exceeding top-tier names. These firms aren’t just climbing. They’re competing for both talent and market share.

Across the top-tier cohort, disputes led the charge. Litigators claimed the largest share of new partner spots, followed closely by corporate and energy and resources — a surprise, given the softer post-COVID deal market.

But firms are preparing for what’s next.

KWM said its 2025 promotions reflect “continued growth in private markets dealmaking” and the “significance of digital and energy transition-related projects.” HSF Kramer echoed the same sentiment — its promotions “support growth in key areas including private capital and energy.”

Check out who else upped their partner promotions this year: