Ron Galea

Partner | Sydney

+61 2 9334 8498 rgalea@hwle.com.au

Ron is a Partner in the HWLE Sydney Insurance Group and has over 12 years’ experience representing insurers in workers compensation, work injury damages, and comprehensive third-party insurance claims involving serious injuries and complex medical, quantum and intricate liability issues. He advises and acts for self-insurers, insurance and employer clients across various industries including mining, health, manufacturing, transport and aged care sectors.

Ron has workers compensation claims management experience and has developed an understanding of the processes, challenges and strategies required to facilitate injury management and return to work. He is focused on working closely with all stakeholders to achieve the best possible outcome through engagement in case conferencing, sessional advice, claims review and strategy discussions.

Expertise

Experience

  • Personal Injury Commission Advising in German v International Floor Coverings Australia Pty Ltd [2021] NSWPIC 273 (obtained an award for the respondent in relation to a claim for injury and surgery).
  • Personal Injury Commission Advising in Whittle v State of New South Wales (Hunter New England Local Health District) [2021] NSWPIC 310 (obtained an award for the respondent pursuant to section 11A(1) of the Workers Compensation Act 1987).
  • Local, District and Supreme Court jurisdictions in New South Wales Advising in Ritson v State of New South Wales [2023] NSWCA 26 (successfully defended appeal affirming the receipt of damages under section 151A of the Workers Compensation Act 1987).
  • Local, District and Supreme Court jurisdictions Advising in Coca-Cola Europacific Partners API Pty Ltd v Pombinho [2024] NSWCA 191 (successfully upheld decision of Medical Appeal Panel that was revoked following a judicial review).
  • Insurer’s, self-insurers and specialised insurers Representing and advising in statutory workers compensation and work injury damages claims including attending informal settlement conferences and formal/informal mediation conferences.
  • Insurers Representing and advising in relation to Compulsory Third Party insurance and recovery claims.
  • icare Dispute Resolution Team Undertaking internal reviews sought by injured workers and employers during a six-month secondment.
  • Co-presenting on BenchTV Presenting in relation to jurisdiction and contract law issues in workers’ compensation claims.