As Legal Counsel, you'll work at the heart of a complex and dynamic organisation, with a focus on commercial and procurement transactions. You'll draft and negotiate a broad range of matters, and partner with senior leaders and stakeholders to deliver practical, solutions-focused legal advice. The role also offers exposure to research, governance, employment and regulatory matters, making it an excellent opportunity for a commercially minded lawyer who enjoys varied work and wants to contribute to significant projects at a world-leading university committed to equity, excellence and community impact.
We welcome applications from experienced legal professionals seeking flexibility and are open to considering a part-time arrangement of 4 days per week for the right candidate.
In this role you will:
The ideal candidate will also have demonstrated experience in general property transactions and advice, including the drafting, preparation and negotiation of leasing arrangements and licences, and advising on title and tenure issues.
This full-time continuing position, is at a HEW 9, and located at the Callaghan Campus (Awabakal and Worimi land).
How will you inspire us?
You will:
The University of Newcastle stands as a global leader distinguished by a commitment to equity and excellence. Our vision is to be a world-leading University for our regions and create a better future for our regions and the globe. Underpinned by this vision are our values of excellence, equity, engagement and sustainability.
Legal and Governance Services (LGS) is led by the General Counsel and Chief Governance Officer and is part of the Vice-Chancellor’s Division LGS provides a range of professional and governance support services to the Academic Senate, the Council, the Vice-Chancellor, senior executives and other officers within the Colleges and Divisions.
In addition to working for a university that is breaking boundaries, discovering new ways of thinking and cementing a place as a global leader, we offer a range of benefits to our employees to ensure you balance your commitments, stay healthy and work effectively.
These include:
For more information on benefits and conditions, please follow this link.
Important information before you apply:
If viewing this on a job board other than the University's please click ‘Apply’ (or equivalent) to reach the University's website, where a copy of the Position Description can be accessed. Please download a copy from the Related Documents section before commencing your application.
Applications for this position will only be accepted from those with Australian residency or a valid work permit.
Your application must include:
Essential Criteria
Please upload your Cover Letter and response to the requested Criteria as one PDF document. This document must not exceed 3 pages.
We value diversity and strive to ensure that our recruitment processes are equitable, inclusive, and barrier-free. If you require an alternative pathway to view the Position Description or to submit an application, please reach out to employment@newcastle.edu.au.
We also seek to provide a fair chance to all applicants by providing reasonable adjustments where required during the assessment and interview phases of the recruitment process.
Typically, candidates that progress beyond the shortlist stage can expect to undertake the following (minimum) assessment activities as part of the recruitment process:
Our University is committed to creating a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment for every member of our community. This commitment is central to our values and our efforts to build a diverse workforce where everyone can thrive.
As part of this, and in alignment with the National Higher Health Sciences Code to Prevent and Respond to Gender-Based Violence 2025, from 1 January 2026, the University will also consider gender-based violence risk factors as part of our recruitment processes.
The completion and return of the University’s Gender-based Violence Declaration Form will form part of the pre-employment checks for this position and any offer of employment will be conditional upon review by the University.
Our adherence to the Code is about more than compliance – it’s about living our values. Together, we can ensure our University remains a place where respect, safety, and inclusion are non-negotiable.
For specific position enquiries, please contact Kate Miller, Senior Legal Counsel on email at Kate.Miller@newcastle.edu.au or call 02 4921 7728.
Having technical difficulties? Please reach out to us: employment@newcastle.edu.au Please note, we do not accept email applications.
Closing date: Tuesday 20th October 2026 at 11.59pm AEDST
We are excited to be Looking Ahead with you!
Reasonable adjustments are available throughout the assessment and interview process to support all applicants to participate fully.
The University of Newcastle is an equal opportunity employer committed to equity, diversity, and social inclusion. Women and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander candidates are particularly encouraged to apply.
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