Jirsch Sutherland expands into South Australia

Jirsch Sutherland’s national managing partner, Bradd Morelli, said the move represents a significant milestone for the firm.

“Establishing a presence in South Australia is an important step for Jirsch Sutherland as we continue to build our national footprint,” he said.

“It allows us to better support directors, individuals and referrers on the ground, while strengthening our capabilities across the country.”

Morelli said Petrenko’s dual qualifications and relationship-driven approach make her a strong fit for the firm.

“Yulia is both a Registered Liquidator and a Registered Bankruptcy Trustee, which gives her a valuable dual perspective across corporate and personal insolvency matters,” he said.

“She is also highly regarded for the relationships she has built with referrers over many years. Her straightforward, responsive approach aligns closely with how we work at Jirsch Sutherland.”

With more than 15 years’ experience in insolvency and business reconstruction, Petrenko brings expertise across corporate liquidations, voluntary administrations, restructuring engagements and personal insolvency matters.

She has also worked across a broad range of industries, including construction, manufacturing, retail, primary industries and property, and includes managing complex administrations, stakeholder negotiations, investigations and recovery actions

She is a chartered accountant and holds a master of commerce and a bachelor of economics. She is a member of ARITA, the Institute of Public Accountants and the Australian Institute of Credit Management.

Petrenko said joining the firm was a natural next step and that she was focused on building a strong presence in the state.

“Jirsch Sutherland is a well-respected national brand that didn’t have representation in SA. I knew it was the right fit as soon as I got to know the firm’s culture. I am grateful for the opportunity and look forward to growing the brand in SA," she said.

“Building genuine relationships with referrers will be a key priority. I’m known for being trustworthy, responsive and easy to deal with, and I look forward to strengthening those connections while growing the brand.”

Petrenko said current economic conditions were continuing to place pressure on businesses and individuals in South Australia, with insolvency levels expected to remain elevated, particularly across sectors such as construction, hospitality and retail.

“Ongoing ATO enforcement activity, higher interest rates, fuel costs and broader cost-of-living pressures are all contributing to the environment we’re seeing.”