Development Lawyer in Sydney

Development Lawyer in Sydney

Sydney Full-Time 121500 - 148500 $ / year (est.) Hybrid
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Provide strategic legal advice on complex property, construction, environmental and planning matters.
  • Company: Join Western Sydney University, a dynamic and diverse community.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary, health support, onsite childcare, and financial perks.
  • Other info: Flexible working arrangements and opportunities for professional growth.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact in shaping the future of education and communities.
  • Qualifications: Law degree, 7+ years experience in relevant legal fields, strong negotiation skills.

The predicted salary is between 121500 - 148500 $ per year.

Full-time, 5-year fixed term contract at Parramatta South campus with flexible working arrangements. Competitive senior-level remuneration, commensurate with experience.

Provide strategic legal advice on complex property, construction, environmental and planning matters across the University.

The Opportunity

You will take end-to-end ownership of a complex portfolio of property, construction, environmental and planning legal matters. Working within the Office of General Counsel, you will establish legal strategies, manage institutional risk and deliver commercially sound outcomes aligned with University objectives. You will provide authoritative advice to senior stakeholders and lead the structuring, drafting, negotiation and settlement of complex contracts, project documentation, agreements, disputes and memoranda of understanding. You will guide property transactions and major project opportunities, establishing appropriate legal, commercial and governance structures. You will advise on legislation, regulatory reviews, University policies and compliance initiatives, while managing external legal service providers for timely and cost-effective outcomes. You will also support the capability of the Office of General Counsel by mentoring junior lawyers and paralegals and sharing specialist knowledge.

What Success Looks Like:

  • Deliver commercially sound outcomes across complex property, construction, environmental and planning matters.
  • Provide clear, authoritative legal advice that identifies risk and offers practical strategies.
  • Lead the negotiation and settlement of complex legal documents and transactions.
  • Establish effective legal, commercial and governance structures for major projects and property matters.
  • Manage external legal service providers to achieve timely and cost-effective outcomes.

About You

A law degree or equivalent qualification and registration, or eligibility for registration, to practise law in New South Wales. An unrestricted New South Wales practising certificate, or the ability to obtain one before commencement. At least seven years’ post-admission experience, including substantial property, construction, environmental and planning law experience. Demonstrated experience across property transactions, including acquisitions, disposals, leasing, licensing, easements and covenants. Strong commercial judgement, negotiation and communication skills, with the ability to advise senior and non-legal stakeholders.

Benefits

We invest in the people who make our mission possible. Alongside a rewarding career, we offer a range of benefits designed to support your financial, personal and family wellbeing.

  • Financial benefits: Access to staff-only products and offers with selected banking partners, salary sacrifice options for onsite parking, and novated motor vehicle leasing.
  • Health and wellbeing support: Free Employee Assistance Program (EAP), complimentary annual flu vaccination, eligibility for Fitness Passport membership, and access to discounted private health cover.
  • Onsite childcare: Long day care and early learning services operate at our Campbelltown, Hawkesbury, Parramatta, and Penrith campuses. Staff may be eligible for discounted fees and salary packaging, with places subject to centre capacity.

Belonging at Western

We are committed to substantive equality as outlined in our Equal Opportunity Policy. We actively encourage applications from Indigenous Australians, candidates of all gender identities and expressions, people of all abilities, and those from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.

About Western

This is your opportunity to be part of something bigger. By joining Western Sydney University, you become a valued member of our community. As our region changes, so too does our university. Western is boldly different, energetic, global, diverse, dynamic, and youthful. Our mission is to deliver student success, impactful research, and stronger communities. As part of our team, you will have a stake in shaping the future of education, broadening horizons, and changing lives. Making a difference starts at Western.

Development Lawyer in Sydney employer: University

Western Sydney University is an exceptional employer that prioritises the well-being and professional growth of its staff. With a strong commitment to inclusivity, flexible working arrangements, and a supportive work culture, employees are empowered to make a meaningful impact on the lives of students with disabilities. The university offers competitive financial benefits, health and wellness support, and opportunities for career development, making it an ideal place for those seeking a rewarding and fulfilling career in education.

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Contact Details:

University Recruitment Team

We think you need these skills to ace Development Lawyer in Sydney

Strategic Legal Advice
Property Law
Construction Law
Environmental Law
Planning Law
Contract Negotiation
Risk Management