Development Lawyer

About the role

Western Sydney University is recruiting a Development Lawyer for a full-time, 5-year fixed-term contract based at the Parramatta South campus, with flexible working arrangements. The role sits within the Office of General Counsel and provides strategic legal advice on complex property, construction, environmental and planning matters across the University.

Key responsibilities

• Take end-to-end ownership of a complex portfolio of property, construction, environmental and planning legal matters, establishing legal strategies and managing institutional risk.
• Advise senior stakeholders and lead the structuring, drafting, negotiation and settlement of complex contracts, project documentation, agreements, disputes and memoranda of understanding.
• Guide property transactions and major project opportunities, setting out the legal, commercial and governance structures.
• Advise on legislation, regulatory reviews, University policies and compliance initiatives, and manage external legal service providers for timely, cost-effective outcomes.
• Mentor junior lawyers and paralegals and share specialist knowledge to support the Office of General Counsel.

Required profile

• A law degree or equivalent qualification and registration, or eligibility for registration, to practise law in New South Wales.
• An unrestricted NSW practising certificate, or the ability to obtain one before starting.
• At least seven years' post-admission experience, including substantial property, construction, environmental and planning law experience.
• Demonstrated experience across property transactions such as acquisitions, disposals, leasing, licensing, easements and covenants.
• Strong commercial judgement, negotiation and communication skills, able to advise senior and non-legal stakeholders.
• Evidence of full-time working rights in Australia at application.

What we offer

• Competitive senior-level remuneration commensurate with experience.
• Staff-only products and offers with selected banking partners, and salary sacrifice options for onsite parking.
• Novated motor vehicle leasing.
• Free Employee Assistance Program, annual flu vaccination, Fitness Passport membership and discounted private health cover.
• Onsite childcare at several campuses, with possible discounts and salary packaging.

Applications are made through the University's online recruitment system, which includes screening questions; the closing date is 10 November 2026.