Jane Coventry

Jane specialises in financial lines insurance with a particular focus on statutory liability, professional indemnity, directors & officers, and defamation matters.

Jane has developed significant expertise acting for companies and their directors and officers in relation to prosecutions and investigations under management liability and statutory liability policies. This includes claims brought by WorkSafe Victoria, the Environment Protection Authority (EPA), the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC), the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC), the Independent Broad-Based Anti-Corruption Commission (IBAC), and the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR).

Jane also has extensive experience defending professional negligence claims on behalf of a range of professionals, including accountants, solicitors, financial planners, health professionals, and educational institutions.

With a strong focus on regulatory matters and a background in a variety of litigation in all Victorian Courts, the Federal Circuit Court, the Federal Court, and the High Court, Jane is an experienced litigator who understands the importance of adopting the right strategy at the outset to achieve the best outcome for her clients as cost efficiently as possible.

Prior to joining Barry Nilsson, Jane was part of a financial lines / professional indemnity insurance team at a global law firm, and also worked at the Supreme Court of Victoria.

'I enjoy the rigour and the challenge of litigation, and I was drawn to Barry Nilsson because of its progressive, high performing insurance team. BN fosters a culture of working as a team to provide a high level of client care, whilst also providing a healthy working environment for its staff.'

Jane takes a people-focused approach, recognising that behind every matter is an individual or business navigating a challenging situation. By understanding the circumstances leading to a dispute and applying a practical, problem-solving mindset, she works to achieve outcomes that allow clients to move forward with confidence. She is particularly mindful of the pressures of litigation and supports both insurers and insureds through the process with clarity, empathy and a focus on reducing stress where possible.

Current industry recognition

• The Best Lawyers in Australia - Insurance Law, Melbourne