Steven Smith, who was also a partner at Herbert Geer, works in general commercial matters, including company and business acquisitions, commercial contracting and domestic and international joint ventures.

His new firm said the new recruit has particular expertise in acting for developers and operators of retirement villages and aged care facilities and is an industry leader in this area.

He will join HWL Ebsworth on 2 July 2012.

"Steven is one of Melbourne's most highly regarded property practitioners, and his technical expertise and commercial approach will complement our existing full service real estate offering perfectly" said Juan Martinez, managing partner of HWL Ebsworth.

"Steven is the fifth partner to be added to our Melbourne Property team since September 2011, and his appointment reinforces our position as one of Australia's most significant specialist property groups" added Juan.