* Rare opportunity to contribute to a high-performing legal team, and to a sensitive, nationally significant legal project
* Full time, fixed term through to end December 2026, with possibility of extension
* HE0 10: $156,277 plus 17% Superannuation
About the opportunity
The Office of General Counsel (OGC) enjoys a highly trusted and collaborative culture, based out of a modern office on our heritage Camperdown campus, and welcomes a hybrid working model. We are a trusted and strategic business unit that embraces innovation and continuous learning, including through a dedicated learning and development program with a focus on business, technology, and career skills.
We are seeking a Lawyer, Administrative Law to support the interesting and varied work of our administrative law team, as well as a confidential, high‑profile special project of significant institutional importance. This is a full‑time, fixed‑term role through to the end of December 2026, aligned to a defined and time‑critical body of work, with the possibility of extension. Due to the sensitive nature of the project, further details will be shared at the appropriate stage of the recruitment process.
Working as part of a small, trusted legal team, you will provide expert administrative and public law advice on complex and sensitive matters, engage with senior stakeholders, and operate in a highly governed environment. This opportunity will suit a lawyer motivated by meaningful, high‑impact work and the chance to contribute to matters of lasting significance within the higher education sector. The experience gained through this project will be highly regarded and difficult to replicate elsewhere.
Your key responsibilities will be:
* Provide sound, timely and practical legal advice on complex administrative and public law matters, including student misconduct, discrimination, privacy, GIPA and internal and external review processes
* Represent the University in internal disciplinary processes and before external tribunals and bodies, including preparing submissions and instructing counsel where required
* Support a confidential, high‑profile special project, exercising discretion, judgement and professionalism at all times
* Identify and manage legal risk, providing advice that aligns with the University's risk appetite and strategic objectives
* Draft clear legal advice, submissions, policies and related documentation in plain‑English
* Work collaboratively with senior lawyers, stakeholders and external advisors in a highly governed environment.
* Contribute to a strong culture of professionalism, integrity and continuous improvement within OGC
About you
* Admitted to practise law in NSW, with at least 5 years' post‑admission experience in administrative or public law
* Demonstrated experience advising on complex administrative law matters, including misconduct, privacy and information access
* Strong advocacy experience, including appearing before tribunals or instructing counsel
* Exceptional judgement, discretion and professionalism, with the ability to manage sensitive matters with discretion
* Excellent analytical, drafting and communication skills, with a practical, solutions‑focused approach
* Comfortable working in time‑critical environments and managing competing priorities
* Experience or familiarity with the higher education, government or regulatory environment will be highly regarded
Sponsorship / work rights for Australia
You must have unrestricted work rights in Australia for the duration of this employment to apply. Visa sponsorship is not available for this appointment.
Pre-employment checks
Your employment is conditional upon the completion of all role required pre-employment or background checks in terms satisfactory to the University. Similarly, your ongoing employment is conditional upon the satisfactory maintenance of all relevant clearances and background check requirements. If you do not meet these conditions, the University may take any necessary step, including the termination of your employment.
EEO statement
At the University of Sydney, our shared values are trust, accountability and excellence and we strive to be a place where everyone can thrive. We are committed to creating a University community that thrives through diversity and reflects the wider community that we serve. We deliver on this through our commitment to diversity and inclusion, evidenced by our people and culture programs, as well as key strategies to increase participation and support the careers of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People, women, people living with a disability, people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, and those who identify as LGBTQIA+. We welcome applications from candidates from all backgrounds.
We are proud to be recognised as an Australian Workplace Equality Index (AWEI) Platinum Employer. Find out more about our work on diversity and inclusion.
How to apply
Applications (including a cover letter, CV, and any additional supporting documentation) can be submitted via the Apply button at the top of the page.
For a confidential discussion about the role, or if you require reasonable adjustment or support filling out this application, please contact Kristy Fairweather, Recruitment Operations, by email to
The University of Sydney
The University reserves the right not to proceed with any appointment.
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Applications Close
Sunday 22 February :59 PM