Legal Counsel, Commercial

Fairness feels good 

Make a real impact at AFCA. Where fairness drives every decision. Help us deliver world-class, independent complaints resolution for Australians. As a not-for-profit and progressive financial ombudsman, we’re championing positive change. Achieving our purpose takes progressive thinking, accountability and resilience. At AFCA, our inclusive leadership values every voice. We offer our people flexible work options, thoughtful benefits and opportunities to deepen expertise. Flourish in a diverse, caring culture. Feel the difference of belonging to an organisation intentionally designed to put people first. 

Be part of an organisation that stands on the side of fairness.

We are now seeking an experienced Legal Counsel to join our Office of the General Counsel, supporting AFCA’s corporate, commercial, employment and litigation risk matters. This is an opportunity to apply your legal expertise in a purpose-driven organisation where your advice genuinely shapes outcomes and protects public trust.

Reporting to the Senior Manager, Legal Counsel (Corporate), you will provide high‑quality legal advice across AFCA’s operations, ensuring our legal obligations are met and risks are well managed, with reputation always front of mind.

This is a broad, hands‑on role where you will:

• Advise on corporate and commercial law, including data, AI tools and emerging technologies
• Draft, review and negotiate commercial agreements covering technology, procurement, property, employment and confidentiality
• Provide advice on AFCA’s Rules, policies and operational guidelines
• Proactively identify and manage legal and litigation risk
• Support and manage external counsel, disputes and litigation matters
• Monitor and communicate changes in law and regulation impacting AFCA
• Partner with stakeholders across the organisation to deliver practical, solutions‑focused advice
• Help build legal capability through internal training and knowledge sharing

This is more than a legal role, t’s an opportunity to safeguard fairness, support community trust and help shape how justice is delivered in Australia’s financial system.

If you’re looking to do meaningful work with real social impact, while continuing to grow your legal career in a supportive, values‑driven environment, we’d love to hear from you.

This is initially a 12-month contract role. 

About you

You are a confident, commercially minded lawyer who values clarity, fairness and sound judgment. You enjoy working collaboratively, are comfortable navigating complexity, and bring maturity and credibility to everything you do. You will bring:

• A law degree and current Australian practising certificate
• Minimum 5 years’ post‑qualification experience, ideally in a corporate legal environment
• Experience managing litigation risk and reviewable matters
• Strong analytical and decision‑making skills, with the ability to anticipate issues and propose solutions
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• A detail‑oriented, organised approach and the ability to thrive in a fast‑paced environment
• A genuine commitment to learning, adaptability and continuous improvement

Additional Information

• BOSS Best Places to Work 2024 –credited for its culture, engagement and flexible working arrangements. 
• Most Inclusive Workplace 2024 – Australian HR Institute (AHRI) Awards. 
• Employer of Choice Public Sector and NFP – Australian HR Awards 2023 
• Bronze AWEI Accreditation 2024 – Recognised for LGBTQ+ workplace inclusion. 
• Accredited Family Friendly Workplace – Supporting work-life balance and inclusivity. 

• Hybrid working – Flexible arrangements with state-of-the-art offices designed for collaboration and wellbeing. 
• Inclusive leave options – Flexible public holidays, 20 weeks paid parental leave, gender affirmation leave, women’s health leave, and paid time off over Christmas. 
• Locations – A team of over 1,200 dedicated professionals based in modern Melbourne and Sydney CBD offices. 

To apply 

If you’re passionate about fairness and believe your skills align with this role, we encourage you to apply—even if you don’t meet every single criterion. 

We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, cultures, abilities, sexual orientations, and gender identities. If you require any accessibility support during the recruitment process, please reach out to our team at [email protected]. 

AFCA is a 2025 Circle Back Initiative Employer - we are committed to responding to every applicant.