Gemma Nugent
Principal Lawyer
I’m not your typical lawyer—and that’s exactly how I like it.
With years of in-house experience under my belt, I know firsthand the pressures construction and engineering professionals face when it comes to managing contracts and legal risks. That’s why I’m passionate about delivering legal advice that’s practical, straightforward, and tailored to your industry.
Why Work With Me?
I spent nine years as an in-house lawyer, including over eight years as Corporate Counsel to a global engineering and design consultant. This hands-on experience means I understand the real-world challenges of large-scale projects and the headaches that come with complex contracts.
More Than Just Legal Advice
Helping businesses not only protect themselves legally but also thrive commercially is where I excel. Empowering you to make smarter decisions that lead to better project outcomes, stronger relationships, and improved profits. From bespoke contract drafting and thorough reviews to training sessions that give your team the confidence to negotiate effectively—I’m here to support your business every step of the way.
Our approach
At Gemma Nugent Legal, it’s all about keeping things simple, efficient, and human. You’ll never get bogged down in legalese when you work with me—I’ll give you clear advice that’s easy to understand and even easier to apply. I charge fixed fees, so there are no surprises, and when you need an update, you’ll talk to me directly, not a junior lawyer.
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beyond the office
I believe in giving back to the community and sharing my expertise where it’s needed most. I chair the board of the Australian Inclusion Group and volunteer at the Subiaco Justice Centre. I also serve on the board of the Fremantle Language Development Centre. Teaching is another passion of mine—I’ve lectured in corporate and commercial law at Curtin Law School, supervised at the John Curtin Law Clinic, and facilitated contract risk and management workshops at AIMWA since 2022.
I’m also an active member of several professional organisations, including the Law Society of Western Australia (where I sit on the Commercial Law Committee), the National Association of Women in Construction (Education Subcommittee), Women Lawyers WA, and the Society of Construction Law Australia.
When I’m not poring over contracts, you’ll find me spending time with my family, planning our next camping adventure, or trying my hand at something new—whether it’s learning the violin or restoring an old coffee table I found at an antique store. There’s something about bringing order and creativity together that sparks joy for me—both in my personal life and in the work I do.
Qualifications
- Bachelor of Science (Hons) (2000)
- Bachelor of Laws (Hons) (2006)
- Master of Business Administration (2013)
- Master of Laws (2022)
- Fellow Australian Institute of Management
Awards
