Qld lawyer wins civil justice award for inspirational work for dust disease survivors 

14/02/2025

A Queensland lawyer whose courtroom victories have created legal precedents that empower victims to pursue justice for workplace injuries has received the 2025 Queensland Australian Lawyers Alliance’s (ALA) Civil Justice Award.

Sean Sweeney, Legal Counsel at Slater & Gordon Lawyers, was presented with the award during the ALA’s Queensland Conference on the Gold Coast today.

“Sean is a champion for individual rights, public safety and accountability, and he is a truly deserving recipient of our annual Civil Justice Award,” said Ms Sarah Grace, Queensland President, Australian Lawyers Alliance.

Sean’s groundbreaking case for Kim Martin, a 77-year-old mesothelioma victim, achieved a record $1.21 million payout for pain and suffering – the largest of its kind in Australia. This case – Martin v Amaca Pty Ltd – not only brought justice to Mr Martin but also highlighted the ongoing risks of asbestos exposure, raising public awareness and sending a strong message to negligent corporations.

“The significance of Sean’s work extends far beyond individual cases,” said Ms Grace. “By securing outcomes like Mr Martin’s, Sean has helped set new legal benchmarks, encouraging systemic change and pushing for higher safety standards across industries. Each victory serves as a lesson to the community: corporate negligence will not go unanswered.”

Sean’s work consistently promotes justice and he often tackles cases others would shy away from due to their complexity or the formidable opposition.

“Sean fights these battles not for recognition but to ensure a safer and fairer world,” said Ms Grace. “Beyond the courtroom, Sean’s advocacy has increased public awareness about asbestos-related illnesses, workplace safety, and the rights of those harmed by negligence.

“Sean has dedicated his career to protecting the vulnerable and making our society safer, ensuring his impact will resonate for years to come. He is an excellent example of a legal professional who uses his skills and expertise to improve the lives of others every day.”

Previous recipients of the ALA’s Queensland Civil Justice Award include law firm leader, Kerry Splatt, barristers Melia Benn and Gerard Mullins KC and Legal Aid lawyer, Kyna Morice.