Category: Legal Location: Melbourne Victoria Australia The Opportunity Our client is a distinguished "boutique top-tier" commercial law firm that has disrupted the traditional legal model since 2006. Founded by partners from top-tier backgrounds, the firm was built on the revelation that clients deserve top-tier expertise without the rigidity and bureaucracy of "Big Law." We are seeking a Principal to join their highly regarded Commercial Property & Development team. This practice has been recommended in Doyles Guide and is known for combining deep technical expertise with a practical, outcome-focused approach. This is a key leadership position suited to a senior practitioner who wants to run high-value, complex files while mentoring a team, all within an environment that champions genuine flexibility, authenticity, and a lack of hierarchy. About the Practice The Commercial Property & Development team supports clients across the full property lifecycle, from site acquisition and development structuring to complex leasing and final divestment. The client base is diverse, ranging from major corporates and developers to local government, not-for-profits, and renewable energy investors. Unlike varied generalist practices, this team handles sophisticated, front-end work, including national property due diligence for multi-jurisdictional transactions and niche asset classes like childcare and renewable energy infrastructure. Key Responsibilities As a Principal, you will act as a 2IC to the practice head and lead significant matters autonomously. You will be involved with Property transactions: high-value acquisitions and disposals, strategic transfers, and tax-related restructures. Leasing & licensing: retail, commercial, and industrial leasing for landlords and tenants, including agreements for lease, childcare centre leases, and portfolio management. Development & subdivision: advising on documentation, easements, section 173 agreements, restrictive covenants, title matters, and regulatory compliance. Foreign investment advice: assisting overseas clients with FIRB applications and compliance in property transactions. Owners corporation & property disputes: advising on owners corporation matters and resolving property-related disputes. Renewable energy projects: supporting landowners and investors in solar farm and battery storage developments. Government & community projects: acting for councils, schools, and not-for-profits on complex property matters. Leadership & Business Development: Mentor and supervise junior lawyers and associates, fostering the firm’s "open door" culture where questions are encouraged. Actively drive business development initiatives, leveraging the firm’s "boutique service" model to deepen client relationships. About You The firm looks for people who are interesting, unique, and engaging. They value cultural fit just as much as academic performance. You are someone who rejects the "six-minute billing block" mentality in favour of genuine client connection. Key Selection Criteria: Experience: 10 years PAE in Commercial Property and Development law, ideally gained within a top-tier or highly regarded boutique firm. Technical Expertise: Deep knowledge of the Australian property law landscape, including the Transfer of Land Act, Planning and Environment Act (specifically s173), and Retail Leases Act. Commercial Acumen: A track record of delivering pragmatic solutions rather than just black-letter law advice. Leadership: Proven experience in supervising teams and delegating work effectively. Personality: You are approachable, down-to-earth, and have interests outside of the law. You thrive in a relaxed but high-performing environment. Why Join This Firm? The "Boutique Top-Tier" Difference: Work on top-tier matters (recognised by Doyles Guide ) without the politics or rigid structure of a global firm. Genuine Flexibility: The firm offers industry-leading flexible working arrangements that are actually respected. Whether it’s part-time hours or remote work, they deliver on their promises. Culture: A relaxed office with an "open door" policy. The firm invests in social connection, from weekly Friday drinks to extravagant EOFY and Christmas parties (think seaplanes and chartered yachts). Holistic Support: Support for your ambitions outside of work, whether that be further study, sporting challenges, or community involvement. Details Apply Now