Ruth is a market-leading employment and industrial relations lawyer, having advised on contentious matters in workplaces across Australia for more than 20 years.
Particularly renowned for her ability to resolve workplace disputes and negotiate enterprise agreements, she identifies solutions in the most complex and sensitive scenarios.
Ruth has a wealth of industry experience in construction, finance, health, education, mining and agriculture, as well as the public sector.
Her secondments in the private and public sectors and to high profile commissions of inquiry are testament to her ease of delivering practical advice and support in diverse settings.
Best Lawyer - Employee Benefits Law
Ruth Hart's client service and general level of service are very strong. Ruth's level of sophistication is very strong. Her commercial vision is very strong. She understands that our business needs may require a nuanced response and provides legal advice accordingly.
Ruth is always available to assist and provides timely advice on complex situations. She is able to clearly communicate different aspects of the issue and guide us to a position that suits our overall business needs. She is well respected across our industry. She is ideal for scenarios where her advice may need to be considered by parties on either side of a matter.
Ruth Hart at Corrs Chambers Westgarth understands the client and is able to understand our legal and business needs. She understands the problems we are trying to solve. I would recommend her to others.
Ruth Hart ... [has] been consistently personable and approachable, which has made what can often be complex or high-pressure matters far easier to manage. [She] bring[s] not only deep expertise, but also a calm and engaging presence that fosters open communication and collaborative problem-solving. From the outset, [she's] been reliable and trustworthy — delivering on commitments, responding promptly, and always acting with integrity.
Ruth Hart's approachable nature makes [her] easy to engage with, and it’s been effortless to build a strong, productive working relationship. This combination of professionalism and genuine rapport has made [her] a standout support to our team.
I can’t recommend Ruth highly enough. Her expertise in employment and industrial matters is exceptional, and she always finds a practical solution, combining strategic insight with hands-on application. Ruth handles complex and sensitive issues with professionalism, always keeping our best interests front and centre.
Involved in multiple rounds of industry bargaining across the country, assisted implement project agreements for major building and infrastructure projects in Queensland and Victoria and partnered with clients in resolving union disputes and dealing with regulatory audits and investigations.
Advised on enterprise bargaining, dealing with industrial action and intractable bargaining proceedings across the public sector including for emergency services, correctional services and local government.
Supported Counsel Assisting on the Family Violence Royal Commission, and the Victorian Bushfires Royal Commission, as part of the leadership teams.