Senior Associate - Environment & Planning
Sydney, NSW
Role Overview:
An exciting opportunity exists for an experienced Associate or Senior Associate to join a leading Environment & Planning practice in Sydney.
The role involves advising major clients across complex regulatory, planning, and environmental matters, with a strong focus on infrastructure, energy, property development, and government-related projects.
The successful candidate will work closely with partners and clients on high-profile, often multi-jurisdictional matters, and will play a key role in mentoring junior lawyers and contributing to the strategic growth of the practice.
Key Responsibilities:
* Advise public and private sector clients on environmental and planning law matters, including statutory approvals, compliance, enforcement, and risk management
* Provide strategic advice on major infrastructure, energy, resources, and property development projects
* Act in planning appeals, inquiries, and hearings before courts and tribunals
* Draft and negotiate complex legal documentation, including development approvals, conditions, agreements, and submissions
* Manage matters efficiently, including supervising junior lawyers and coordinating with external consultants and experts
* Build and maintain strong client relationships, contributing to client development and business growth initiatives
* Stay abreast of legislative, regulatory, and policy developments affecting environment and planning law
Skills & Experience:
* 4-8+ years' post-admission experience in environment and planning law, ideally gained at a leading law firm or relevant government authority
* Strong technical expertise across Victorian and Commonwealth environmental and planning regimes
* Experience advising on large-scale projects and complex regulatory frameworks
* Demonstrated ability to manage matters independently while collaborating effectively within a team
* Strong written and verbal communication skills, with a practical, solutions-focused approach
* A proactive mindset with an interest in mentoring and developing junior team members
Qualifications:
* Admitted to practice law in Victoria (or eligible for admission)
* Relevant tertiary qualifications in law; additional qualifications in planning, environment, or related disciplines are advantageous
What's on Offer:
* High-quality, market-leading work for prominent clients
* A collaborative, inclusive team environment with clear career progression opportunities
* Exposure to some of Australia's most significant environment and planning matters
* Competitive remuneration and professional development support