Clayton Utz has recruited Stuart Pill and Dan Trindade of Trindade Farr & Pill as partners in the Melbourne office, together with their team of five lawyers and their support staff.

The hires have been highlighted as a sign on future growth in the area, which is expected to see some firms scrambling for new talent and expertise.

The national head of Clayton Utz's workplace relations and safety practice, Joe Catanzariti,  said the hires reflected the "significant growth opportunities" in the area.

"A recent survey has found that employment law is one of the key areas in which firms are looking to expand over the next few years," said Catanzariti. 

"There is no doubt that with an increased focus on the national IR system under the Fair Work Act 2009, and the resulting increase in disputes, including bargaining disputes, a full-service national Workplace Relations team is best placed to provide strategic advice and support to clients in this area."

Clayton Utz's Melbourne office managing partner and workplace relations partner Glen Bartlett said Trindade, Farr & Pill has carved out a reputation for excellence in workplace and industrial relations advice over the last seven years. He said the firm has a substantial and diverse corporate client base.  

"Their appointment is part of our plan to significantly expand the capability of Melbourne office which is currently in an exciting growth phase. Stuart, Dan and their strong team will add significant depth to our already strong national Workplace Relations capability. "