Peterson joins the firm's workplace relations and safety team from Russell Kennedy in Melbourne, and will lead Lander & Roger's OH&S and coronial inquests practice.

Prior to this, Peterson practised for a number of years in Mallesons Stephen Jaques' property, construction and environment team.

Head of workplace relations and safety, Derek Humphery-Smith, said Peterson's arrival reinforces the firm's capability in readiness for the harmonisation of OH&S laws across the country from 1 January 2012.

Peterson has experience in workplace health and safety at both the state and federal level, having practised in the jurisdiction for over 15 years.

She also brings experience in criminal law and workplace safety enforcement from her time with the Victorian Workcover Authority where she managed the legal services and investigations division and helped implement the 2004 Occupational Health and Safety Act.