Photo by Stephen Wilson Barker
BSc/BA (USYD) GDipLaw (UCL)
Hillary Curtis
Paralegal
Expertise
Hillary is a highly skilled and dedicated legal professional with advanced expertise in client conferencing, conducting in depth legal research, and drafting protocols. She brings a calm, confident, and solutions-oriented approach to her work, ensuring that clients receive both strategic legal guidance and empathetic support. Her strong project and client management skills allow her to navigate complex matters with efficiency and precision. She has assisted with a diverse range of matters pertaining to Indigenous Cultural and Intellectual Property, and Indigenous Data Sovereignty.
Passionate about her work, Hillary is deeply committed to achieving meaningful outcomes for clients. Her care and attention to detail are evident in every aspect of her practice, from her thorough research to her ability to engage thoughtfully with clients and stakeholders. She is proactive in fostering discussions and is highly regarded for her collaborative nature, working seamlessly alongside colleagues. In 2023 and 2024, she was an active member of the Terri Janke and Company RAP Committee.
Experience
Hillary completed her undergraduate studies in a Bachelor of Science and a Bachelor of Arts (Hons First Class) at the University of Sydney, before undertaking her legal studies in London. She is a Graduate Diploma in Law from the University of London and the Barrister Training Course. She was Called to the Bar in 2025 at The Honourable Society of Gray’s Inn.
Hillary specialises in trademark matters, university consultations, and ICIP protocols. She has collaborated with institutions including Queensland University of Technology, CSIRO, Central Queensland University, the University of Sydney, and Charles Sturt University. Her work also extends to developing True Tracks® workshops for the arts, cultural, and scientific research sectors.
Recent Work
· Preparing trade mark advice and handling trade mark registration with IP Australia for First Nations businesses and organisations.
· Developing materials for workshops across a range of areas, including First Nations engagement, IP, ICIP, environmental research and management, the GLAM sector, the universities sector, cultural heritage and research;
· In 2024, Hillary assisted Senior Solicitor, Emma Fitch, in conducting consultations with the University of Sydney, engaging with archive staff and collections management staff.
Awards and Nominations
· Finalist, Best Legal Cheek Journal Contribution, 2023
· Recipient, Career Commitment Scholarship, Barrister Training Course, BPP 2020
Community
Beyond her legal and professional pursuits, she maintains a strong interest in the arts, heritage management and the museums sector. She also has a keen interest in perfumery and olfactory art, with a particular focus on the use of aromatic Australian plants.
