Previously with Roads and Maritime Services in New South Wales, Ms Staugas has returned to South Australia bringing extensive experience across the construction lifecycle to MinterEllison's Infrastructure, Construction and Property practice.

MinterEllison is ranked in Bands 1 and 2 by Chambers Asia Pacific 2019 for Construction, Real Estate, Government, Environment and Planning, and Infrastructure.

"The addition of Joanne as a Legal Consultant in our South Australian practice not only adds specialist construction expertise, but also brings together a wealth of experience in procurement and major projects," said Virginia Briggs, MinterEllison's Infrastructure, Construction and Property Managing Partner.

Recognised for her work across the public and private sectors, Ms Staugas has a strong reputation for providing practical, commercial outcomes for her clients.

"Joanne's deep construction and project expertise has seen her advise and work on some of Australia's largest projects including the WestConnex and NorthConnex Motorways, the Air Warfare Destroyer Program and the Collins Class Submarines, and numerous capital works projects for Universities, Stadia, Ports and Motorways," said Adrian Swale, MinterEllison's South Australian Practice Team Leader. "Joanne's understanding of this sector will enable her to deliver seamless advice to our clients."

In joining MinterEllison, Ms Staugas said she was excited by the opportunity to help clients successfully navigate and deliver complex construction projects. 

"MinterEllison has a growing practice in the infrastructure and construction space, which is backed up by great teams in the firm's various practice areas, both here in South Australia and nationally," said Ms Staugas. "The depth and breadth of work MinterEllison is entrusted with throughout Australia was a real attraction in making my decision to return to South Australia."