Updated on 22/06/2025
Sydney’s top-rated employment law firms and lawyers excel in workplace legal issues ranging from unfair dismissal and redundancy to workplace bullying, discrimination, and contract disputes. Employment lawyers guide both employees and employers through the Fair Work Act (Cth) and NSW industrial regulations, ensuring rights are protected and obligations met. Whether you’re a professional facing unfair treatment or a business managing staff, a proficient employment lawyer can be pivotal in safeguarding your livelihood or enterprise within the framework of New South Wales law.
Choosing an employment lawyer or firm is a critical decision. Workplace disputes can impact your career, finances, and business reputation. The recommendations below are curated based on expertise, experience, client feedback, and professional recognitions. We’ve reviewed the Law Society of NSW listings and leading legal guides to compile this list of Sydney’s best employment law specialists for 2025. These firms and practitioners are renowned for their dedication, deep knowledge of NSW employment regulations, and proven track records in achieving fair outcomes.
Maurice Blackburn is Australia’s leading plaintiff employment law firm, nationally recognized for championing employee rights. The firm’s Sydney team specialises in unfair dismissal, workplace bullying, sexual harassment, discrimination, redundancy and other workplace disputes. Maurice Blackburn’s credibility is unrivalled – it has been named a First Tier Leading Employment Law Firm in the 2025 Doyle’s Guide (with top-tier status in NSW) and was recognised as Employment Law Firm of the Year (Australia, 2025) by Global Law Experts.
Backed by decades of experience, their lawyers have secured landmark outcomes (e.g. recovering millions in unpaid wages for exploited workers) and strive to resolve most cases out of court through strong negotiation. Clients benefit from transparent fees (fixed-fee consultations) and a compassionate approach that prioritises protecting their professional reputations and entitlements.
Address: Level 29, 161 Castlereagh Street, Sydney NSW 2000
Phone Number: (02) 9261 1488
Website: mauriceblackburn.com.au
Maurice Blackburn’s Areas of Expertise:
Unfair dismissal claims and general protections (Fair Work Commission)
Workplace bullying, harassment, and sexual harassment cases
Discrimination (sex, race, disability, age, etc.)
Maurice Blackburn’s Notable Cases / Achievements:
Secured record damages in Federal Court for sexual harassment victims
Won multiple class actions against large employers for wage theft and unfair practices
Consistently ranked First Tier in Doyle’s Guide (Employee Representation, NSW)
Danny King Legal is an award-winning boutique employment law firm based in Sydney, known for its client-centric service to both employees and employers. Founded in 2011 by Danny King, the firm has grown into a powerhouse with a reputation for resolving “unwinnable” cases through tenacity and expertise. Danny King Legal has been ranked First Tier in NSW for Employment Law in Doyle’s Guide (2024 and 2025)
– an achievement reflecting the esteem of their peers.
The team offers pragmatic advice on unfair dismissal, workplace investigations, discrimination, contract negotiations, and general Fair Work disputes, always aiming for quick, fair, and discreet resolutions. They are known for transparent fees and a relatable approach that empowers clients.
Address: Suite 7, 352 Kent Street, Sydney NSW 2000
Phone Number: (02) 9233 5669
Website: dannykinglegal.com
Danny King’s Areas of Expertise:
Unfair dismissal and adverse action (general protections) claims
Workplace bullying and sexual harassment
Discrimination and equal opportunity law
Contract disputes and executive employment agreements
Danny King’s Notable Cases / Achievements:
First Tier in Doyle’s Guide (Employment Law, NSW, 2025)
Managing Partner of the Year (Australian Law Awards, 2021)
Key wins in “unwinnable” dismissal and discrimination cases
Haywards Solicitors is a specialist employment law boutique with over 30 years of history in Sydney, focusing on delivering practical workplace solutions. Co-founded by Phil Hayward (an Accredited Specialist in Employment & Industrial Law with the NSW Law Society), the firm has been ranked First Tier in NSW for employee & union-focused employment law. Haywards is unique in that it effectively straddles both sides of the employment relationship – advising executives and employees as well as employers – always with an eye toward fairness and compliance with NSW regulations.
The firm has a strong industrial relations pedigree, with Phil Hayward having begun his career in employer associations and later establishing Haywards in 1995. This background translates into a deep understanding of workplace laws from both the employer and employee perspective.
Address:Level 11, 210 Clarence Street, Sydney NSW 2000
Phone Number: (02) 9283 7222
Website: haywards.com.au
Haywards’s Areas of Expertise:
Unfair dismissal and adverse action (general protections) claims
Discrimination and equal opportunity law
Contract disputes and executive employment agreements
Hayward’s Notable Cases / Achievements:
Led major industrial action and enterprise bargaining negotiations
Frequent representation in the Federal Court and NSW Industrial Relations Commission
Recognised for balancing employee and employer perspectives
Each of these firms and lawyers has a proven record in navigating NSW and federal employment laws to protect their clients’ interests. When searching for the “best employment lawyers in Sydney”, consider the nature of your matter – whether you need the resources of a top firm or the specialized skill of an individual advocate. The above recommendations, updated for 2025, offer a starting point to find trusted legal support aligned with your workplace needs.
Remember that the best outcome often hinges on early advice, so it’s wise to consult a qualified employment lawyer as soon as an issue arises. With the right expertise by your side, you can navigate workplace challenges confidently, knowing your rights and obligations are in safe hands.
