Media Release: Boost to Clayton Utz's Workplace Relations, Employment and Safety practice with relocation of IR expert

A former WRES Practice Leader and firm Board Member, Mr Harben is one of Australia's leading industrial relations lawyers. He has 25 years' experience as an employment lawyer with deep expertise in complex enterprise bargaining, WHS investigations and litigation, strategic industrial relations advice, and the management of significant workforce transformations.

Emma Covacevich, Clayton Utz Chief Executive Partner, said Saul's experience supporting clients in Western Australia with some of their most pressing legal challenges would be invaluable as the firm expands its WRES practice.

"Saul has built an extensive practice in the west in sectors including energy and resources, mining, oil and gas, building and construction, power generation, transport and logistics and tertiary education," Ms Covacevich said.

"He has been an employment lawyer for 25 years – almost 20 of those with Clayton Utz. We are looking forward to leveraging that expertise to complement our growing team of experts in a time of high client demand."

Mr Harben said he will continue to service clients in the west, but his move to Sydney comes as the firm commits to strengthening its capabilities in industrial relations, workplace health & safety, and enterprise bargaining.

"Our clients are operating in a difficult economy, in which cost of living pressures are mounting, and the significant reform of industrial relations laws has created a complicated environment for employees and employers to navigate," Mr Harben said. "We know these interrelated complexities are top of mind for our clients."