Bright Steps Academy runs 13 childcare centres across NSW, VIC, SA, and ACT today. By 2027, we'll have 29+ across five states. We're not slowing down, we're leasing and acquiring new centres, navigating multi-state regulation, managing leasing and commercial negotiations, and building the infrastructure to support thousands of families and educators nationally.
We need a lawyer who can keep up.
About the Role
Ditch the billable hour. This is a hands‐on, commercially driven in‐house role where you'll own the legal function and work directly with the Directors. No layers of bureaucracy, no six‐minute units — just real work that matters. Your week might include:
* Negotiating commercial leases and property deals for new centre acquisitions
* Running due diligence and legal structuring on acquisitions across multiple states
* Managing external barristers and making sure you're getting value, not just invoices
* Advising on regulatory compliance under the NQF, state licensing, and child safety legislation
About You
You're commercially sharp, you back yourself, and you don't shy away from a fight when it matters. You want work with substance — not just a title. You'll bring:
* Current Australian practising certificate with 4+ years' PQE in commercial law
* Runs on the board in at least two of: property/leasing, employment law, M&A, or corporate advisory
* Strong drafting and negotiation skills — you can hold your own across the table
* Comfortable working autonomously and making calls without a partner looking over your shoulder
* Bonus: experience in childcare, education, healthcare, or multi‐state regulatory environments
What's On Offer
* Three days a week, based in Erina — be there for school drop‐off and pick‐up
* No timesheets, no billable targets — just outcomes
* Competitive pro‐rate salary plus superannuation
* Build and own the legal function from the ground up — this is your show
* Genuine pathway to full‐time as the business scales nationally
How to Apply
Hit Apply Now on SEEK with your CV and a brief cover letter. Tell us what you're about and why this role fits.
Hiring Line: Jacob Wasef, Director
Bright Steps Academy is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating an inclusive workplace. All applicants must hold valid Australian working rights. A Working With Children Check (or state equivalent) will be required prior to commencement.
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