I sent this email to Slater and Gordon's media manager earlier today.

1 He had no claim on the AWU Workplace Reform Association file because he was not the firm's client in that matter

 

2. While the firm had suggested that it retained an AWU Workplace Reform Association file in its early (August/September 2012) correspondence with Blewitt, by 12 October 2012 it claimed not to hold any documentation on the matter.

Since August we have dealt with numerous requests from former clients involved in these matters. 

 

Slater & Gordon has not withheld or delayed the release of any files in our possession to any former clients. 

 

.....when clients make a request to have their files returned direct to them or their nominee, we are obliged to release those files in accordance with the client direction. 

 

.....since these matters have come under intense media scrutiny, Slater & Gordon has undertaken extensive archival searches to identify whether the firm still holds any relevant files or documents. Where such files or documents have been identified, they have been made available to any clients who have made a request for them. 

Was Blewitt the firm's client in the AWU WRA matter?

On 10 September 2014 the firm's former partner responsible for the Workplace Reform Association matter, Julia Gillard, gave evidence to the Trade Union Royal Commission.

In a sworn statement Ms Gillard said she provided advice to both Blewitt and Bruce Wilson in the incorporation of the association.

https://www.tradeunionroyalcommission.gov.au/Hearings/Documents/Evidence10September2014/GillardStatement4.pdf

IN her oral evidence Ms Gillard confirmed that Blewitt was her joint client along with Wilson.

Q.   Instructions --

A.   Incorporating the Association, to be more precise.

 

Q.   Instructions emanating from Mr Wilson and Mr Blewitt?

A.   Correct.

 

Q.   They were your client, were they, for the purposes of this matter?

A.   Yes, that's true.

 

Q.   They were giving you instructions in their own personal capacities?

A.   Yes, that's true.