At HomeStart, we believe everyone deserves a place to call home. For over 30 years, we've helped thousands of South Australians realise the dream of home ownership through innovative, accessible financial solutions. As a state government backed organisation, we combine commercial acumen with a strong social purpose — and our people are at the heart of everything we do.
The Role
We are now seeking an experienced Legal Counsel to join our team. Reporting to the Chief Risk Officer, this pivotal role involves delivering comprehensive commercial legal advice across our organisation, with particular focus on financial services regulation and HomeStart's operations as a credit provider. As Legal Counsel, you will provide strategic legal guidance to our Board, Executive team, and staff across all business areas, with emphasis on operational and regulatory compliance arising from financial services and credit legislation.
Key Responsibilities
* Provide high-quality legal advice across various roles on financial services and credit matters, administrative law, intellectual property, and legislative compliance.
* Deliver strategic advice to the CEO, Executive, and senior leaders.
* Draft, negotiate and review commercial contracts and agreements
* Lead policy development, and legal risk management.
* Liaise with government agencies, regulators (e.g. ASIC), and external legal advisors.
* Act as FOI Officer, Privacy Officer, and Public Interest Disclosure Investigations Officer.
What We're Looking For
* Proven experience in South Australian commercial legal practice—whether in private firms, government, or in-house roles.
* A strong understanding of banking and finance and/or credit matters,
* An understanding of, or the ability to quickly acquire knowledge of state government operations.
* The confidence to work autonomously while collaborating effectively across all levels of the organisation.
* Exceptional communication and relationship-building skills.
Essential
* Law degree and unrestricted Practicing Certificate.
* Admission (or eligibility) to practice in South Australia.
* Minimum 5 years' experience in commercial legal practice, including litigation.
* Excellent communication and relationship building skills
Why Join Us?
At HomeStart, we believe in opportunity, determination, openness, and simplicity. We're driven by the stories of those we help and the impact we make. Join a purpose driven organisation where your legal expertise directly supports South Australian communities.
We offer competitive remuneration, professional development, flexible working arrangements, and the satisfaction of meaningful work that makes a real difference.
Applications close at 5pm, Friday 12 September 2025and are only accepted via Please provide a cover letter, current curriculum vitae and include the name and contact details of three current professional referees.
Please contact Ryan Officer at if you wish to discuss this opportunity further.
Please note candidate screening and interviews may commence prior to the closing date of the job advert, and you will only be contacted if you progress to interview. We also reserve the right to close this vacancy early.
All new employees are required to provide a satisfactory National Criminal History Record (Police Check) prior to commencement.
HomeStart is an equal opportunity employer that supports a diverse, inclusive and safe place to work where everyone belongs, and everyone feels at home. All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard for gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, disability, culture, national origin or age.