Legal Counsel - Mining, Environment & Tenure

About the role

Thungela Australia, part of the Thungela Group and a major thermal coal producer in Australia, is seeking an experienced Legal Counsel to advise on mining, environmental, land access and tenure matters across its Australian operations and growth portfolio. Reporting to the Head of Legal – Australia, the role works closely with operational, technical and commercial teams on complex matters such as mining tenure, environmental approvals, native title and climate change regulation.

Key responsibilities

• Provide strategic, commercially focused legal advice on mining and environmental regulatory matters
• Advise on mining and exploration tenements, environmental approvals, climate change regulation, land access, native title and cultural heritage matters
• Support the acquisition, maintenance and compliance of mining tenure, and coordinate legal input for regulatory approvals
• Draft, review and negotiate land access, environmental, native title, cultural heritage and related agreements
• Guide regulatory compliance activities, audits, investigations, objections and associated litigation
• Build relationships with operational teams, regulators, landholders, Traditional Owners and specialist advisers

Required profile

• Bachelor of Laws, Juris Doctor or an equivalent recognised Australian legal qualification
• Admission as an Australian legal practitioner, eligible to hold and maintain a practising certificate in Queensland
• Post-admission experience in mining, resources, environmental or related areas of law
• Strong knowledge of Queensland mining and environmental legislation and permitting requirements
• Sound commercial judgement and strong stakeholder engagement and communication skills

Required skills

• Drafting and negotiating agreements in complex regulatory environments
• Knowledge of Queensland mining and environmental legislation

What we offer

• A competitive salary and benefits package
• An in-house legal role with exposure to complex, commercially significant matters across the Australian resources sector
• The chance to work alongside experienced operational, technical, commercial and legal professionals

To apply, use the online application form, uploading your CV and other documents; appointments are based on role requirements, experience and capability.