Associate / Senior Associate – Commonwealth Government (Corporate & Commercial)

About the role

HWLE is seeking an Associate or Senior Associate to join its Australian Government team in Canberra. You will work closely with partners and a small group of lawyers, advising on major government projects and procurement matters.

Key responsibilities

• Advise on significant Australian Government projects across the full procurement lifecycle, from market approach to contract signature and management.
• Provide commercial and contract law advice for a variety of government clients.
• Collaborate with a team of partners, lawyers, a graduate and a paralegal to meet client objectives.
• Support the achievement of Australian Government requirements and objectives.

Required profile

• 2‑5 years post‑qualification experience, preferably in a commercial legal role.
• Strong interest in Australian Government transactions and procurement.
• Background in project/program work or ICT contracting.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to draft clear, concise documents.
• Willingness to obtain (or already hold) an AGSVA Baseline security clearance.

What we offer

• Unrivalled career pathways through a merit‑based progression model.
• Flexible work arrangements to support work‑life balance.
• A friendly, down‑to‑earth firm culture.
• Opportunity to work at a firm consistently ranked at the forefront of the Australian legal market.