In House Counsel in Port Macquarie

At Port Macquarie Hastings Council (PMHC), every employee plays an important role in delivering positive outcomes for our community. We're looking for an experienced and motivated In House Counsel to join our Legal & Governance Services team. This is a unique opportunity to combine legal skills with operational property services in a role that offers variety, challenge and meaningful impact.

Reporting to the Group Manager Legal & Governance Services (General Counsel), you'll work alongside a progressive and supportive leader who is committed to continuous improvement and delivering high-quality services across Council. You'll join a collaborative team that values professionalism, innovation, sound judgement and a service-focused approach.

As the Legal & Property Services Manager, you will:

• Provide practical and commercially focused legal advice across planning, property, environmental law, procurement, contracts, governance and compliance matters.
• Draft, review and negotiate a range of legal documents, including contracts, deeds, leases, licences and other complex agreements.
• Manage legal matters and external legal advisers, while ensuring compliance with relevant legislative and regulatory requirements.
• Lead Council's property services function, including land transactions, lease and licence management, and the systems that support property operations.
• Support the General Counsel in driving continuous improvement and innovation within the Legal & Governance Services team.

You will bring:

• A law degree and a current unrestricted NSW Practising Certificate.
• At least three years' post-admission experience in private practice, local government or an in-house legal environment.
• Experience managing property matters, land transactions and related systems, including PEXA.
• Leadership or supervisory experience.
• Strong relationship-building skills and the ability to provide clear, practical advice to a broad range of stakeholders.
• A current Class C Driver Licence.

Why Join Us? This is an opportunity to apply your legal expertise in a role that genuinely makes a difference. You'll work on diverse and interesting matters, contribute to significant community outcomes, and be part of a collaborative team that values expertise, initiative and continuous improvement. If you're looking for a role where you can combine legal excellence with leadership and influence the way services are delivered across Council, we'd love to hear from you.

Remuneration and Benefits:

• Employment Type: Full time, Permanent 35 hours per week
• Salary (exclusive of super): Starting in the range of $134,858 to $150,948 depending on skills and experience
• Opportunity for performance based increases
• This role also qualifies for a Vehicle allowance
• Flexible work arrangements - hybrid working and flexi-time
• Discounted gym membership through membership to Fitness Passport
• Candidates relocating to the region have access to The Welcome Experience
• Opportunities for learning and development and internal career progression
• Annual salary increase as per the Local Government (State) Award 2026
• Long service leave after 5 years
• Generous employee assistance program
• Salary packaging options available through Salary Packaging Australia and Maxxia
• Recognition through our annual awards ceremony celebrating and rewarding staff achievements

About the Port Macquarie Hastings Region:

The region is one of Australia's most enviable locations. We boast a stunning hinterland, kilometres of pristine beaches, national parks, playgrounds, sporting facilities, restaurants, galleries, theatres and a genuine community vibe. The Mid-North Coast is perfect for hiking, surfing, camping, fishing, exploration, sports, arts, theatre, food and wine.

Questions? If you would like to know more about this opportunity or have any questions about the role, please contact Anthea Gilmore, Group Manager Legal and Governance Services (General Counsel) on 02 6581 8***.

Applications Close: Sunday 18 October at 11:30pm

At Port Macquarie-Hastings Council, we believe that diversity makes us stronger. We are committed to creating a workplace that reflects the vibrant community we serve—where everyone feels welcome, respected, and empowered to thrive. We encourage applications from people of all backgrounds, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, veterans, people with disabilities, culturally and linguistically diverse individuals, and members of the LGBTQIA+ community.

If you require any adjustments during the recruitment process or in the workplace, please contact us at ****@pmhc.nsw.gov.au. We’re here to support you every step of the way.

Notes: Suitable candidates may be placed on an eligibility list for future identical positions for 6 months or a talent pool for similar positions for a period of 12 months. Preferred applicants are required to complete pre-employment checks. This may include: Reference Checks; National Criminal Police Check; Medical Assessment (includes drug and alcohol testing); Qualification verification; Working with Children Check verification.

PMHC's recruitment notification system is primarily via system generated emails. Please ensure your email is correct before submitting an application to avoid missing crucial updates and outcomes.

Port Macquarie Hastings Council adheres to the principles of a child safe organisation and is committed to the care and protection of all children and young people.