We are seeking an experienced employment and safety lawyer to join the Strategy and Governance team within the Office of the Executive Director. Reporting to the General Counsel, you will provide timely, pragmatic and risk-based advice that supports safe workplaces, effective governance, sound decision-making and the management of legal and regulatory risk across CEWA offices and schools.
Why Join CEWA?
- Salary of $153,415 - $167,501 per annum (Steps 1-4) plus superannuation. The standard commencement salary is Step 1, with annual salary progression through to Step 4.
- Additional paid leave during Christmas and Easter office closures
- Flexible working arrangements where operationally appropriate
- Professional development and career growth opportunities
- Access to wellbeing initiatives including Fitness Passport, Employee Assistance Program and corporate health discounts
- Meaningful, enterprise-wide work supporting Catholic education across Western Australia
About the Role
Working within Strategy and Governance, you will advise on a broad portfolio spanning employment law, industrial relations, work health and safety, discrimination, bullying and harassment, workplace investigations, Ombudsman reporting and related regulatory obligations. You will work with CECWA, the Executive Team, team leaders, principals and specialist teams, escalating complex or higher-risk matters to the General Counsel.
Key responsibilities include:
- Provide practical legal advice on employment, industrial relations and work health and safety matters to support informed decisions and effective risk management.
- Support workplace investigations, complaints, employee claims and dispute resolution, including general protections and unfair dismissal matters.
- Undertake legal research, draft submissions and support CEWA in negotiations, mediations and proceedings, subject to delegated authority and direction.
- Advise on employment relations strategy, enterprise bargaining, and award and agreement interpretation in partnership with People and Culture.
- Review legislation, regulation and case law, and draft or review contracts, agreements, deeds, policies and supporting resources.
- Maintain legal professional privilege, confidentiality, accurate records and compliance with professional, ethical and regulatory obligations.
About You
You are a commercially minded employment lawyer who combines sound legal judgment with a practical, solutions-focused approach. You work effectively both independently and collaboratively, build trusted stakeholder relationships and deliver accurate, high-quality advice within defined timeframes.
- Bachelor's degree in law, or equivalent, admission to practice and an unrestricted legal practising certificate from the Legal Practice Board of Western Australia.
- A minimum of four years' post-admission experience.
- Demonstrated experience advising on employment law, industrial relations, workplace investigations and work health and safety matters.
- Experience working in complex environments, with sound judgment in prioritising work, managing risk and communicating with stakeholders.
- Strong interpersonal, written and verbal communication skills, with a commitment to accuracy and quality outcomes.
- Prepared to support the Catholic ethos in the performance of your duties.
Highly regarded:
- Awareness of CEWA governance arrangements and the governance and compliance requirements for non-government schools in Western Australia.
Information for Applicants
Interested applicants should submit:
- A cover letter briefly addressing the selection criteria.
- A curriculum vitae outlining employment history, qualifications and certifications, and providing a minimum of two professional referees.
The successful applicant will be required to provide:
- A National Criminal History Check issued by the Department of Education WA.
- 100 points of identification.
Applications close no later than 5:00pm Sunday 15 November 2026.
We reserve the right to close this advertisement early if a suitable candidate is identified.
All employees of Catholic Education Western Australia are required to support the Catholic ethos in the performance of their duties. Catholic Education Western Australia encourages applications from people of all cultural backgrounds, First Nations peoples, and individuals with disabilities or medical conditions who meet the requirements of the position. To be eligible to apply, you must be legally permitted to work in Australia.
Legal Counsel - Employment and Safety in Perth employer: Catholic Education Western Australia
Catholic Education Western Australia (CEWA) is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and collaborative work environment in Broome that prioritises professional development and employee wellbeing. With competitive salaries, flexible working arrangements, and additional leave during Christmas and Easter, CEWA fosters a culture of growth and inclusivity, making it an ideal place for educators passionate about making a meaningful impact in the lives of students learning English as an additional language or dialect.
Contact Details:
Catholic Education Western Australia Recruitment Team
