Why join us?
Ready to take the next step in your insurance litigation career?
DWF
is seeking an experienced
Senior Associate/Special Counsel
to join our growing Insurance team in Melbourne. You'll work closely with a Partner on a diverse and high-quality portfolio of
insured property damage matters
, with a strong emphasis on
building and construction disputes and coverage advice
.
This is an exciting opportunity to work on complex matters, engage directly with insurer clients (including London markets), and play a meaningful role in the continued growth of our practice.
In this hands-on and rewarding role, you will be trusted with significant responsibility and client exposure from day one.
Run the
day-to-day conduct of complex litigated and unlitigated insurance matters
Deliver
clear, commercial coverage and defence advice
to insurers, including local and London Underwriters
Draft and review high-quality
pleadings, affidavits, advices and settlement agreements
Appear in court, mediations and settlement conferences, and
instruct counsel
for hearings and trials
Build strong relationships with
insurer and insured clients
, brokers, counsel, experts and other stakeholders
Analyse and prepare
evidence and persuasive written submissions
Actively contribute to
business development initiatives
and client growth
Mentor and support
junior lawyers
, helping shape the next generation of talent
Stay at the forefront of
legal, regulatory and industry developments
Work in line with DWF policies, procedures and confidentiality standards
Responsibilities
Run the
day-to-day conduct of complex litigated and unlitigated insurance matters
Deliver
clear,



commercial coverage and defence advice
to insurers, including local and London Underwriters
Draft and review high-quality
pleadings, affidavits, advices and settlement agreements
Appear in court, mediations and settlement conferences, and
instruct counsel
for hearings and trials
Build strong relationships with
insurer and insured clients
, brokers, counsel, experts and other stakeholders
Analyse and prepare
evidence and persuasive written submissions
Actively contribute to
business development initiatives
and client growth
Mentor and support
junior lawyers
, helping shape the next generation of talent
Stay at the forefront of
legal, regulatory and industry developments
Work in line with DWF policies, procedures and confidentiality standards
What will help you succeed in this role?
You're a confident, motivated Senior Associate who enjoys complex work and taking ownership of matters.
You will bring:
4+ years' post-admission experience
in insurance litigation
(including construction claims, property damage and coverage disputes)
Essential experience in
insurance liability matters
Strong
practice management skills
and attention to detail
Excellent
written and verbal communication
and advocacy skills
Confidence appearing in court and instructing counsel
A
collaborative,



proactive approach
and genuine enthusiasm for high-quality work
Strong
analytical and problem-solving skills
High standards of professionalism and ethics
The ability to work
independently while thriving in a team environment
iManage
or similar document management systems
Time recording software
Microsoft Word, Outlook, PowerPoint and Excel
A willingness to
embrace AI tools and emerging legal technology
What we offer
At DWF, we deeply appreciate the significance of offering a comprehensive rewards package that extends beyond a basic salary. Our commitment is to ensure that each member of our team not only feels valued but is also duly rewarded throughout their tenure with us. Upon joining our organisation, you will have the opportunity to select from a diverse array of benefits, allowing you to carefully tailor a package that perfectly aligns with your individual needs and those of your family. In addition to our standard benefits, we offer a wide range of adaptable benefits and robust well-being programs.
Our recruitment process upholds the highest standards of fairness and engagement. It includes comprehensive interviews and, at times, a written assessment, an assessment day, or presentation. We aim to create a positive experience for all candidates and offer any adjustments or additional support.
About us
DWF is a global legal business providing Complex, Managed and Connected Services. We empower people to be themselves within an inclusive and supportive environment, enabling everyone to achieve their full potential in line with their abilities and career aspirations.

📌 Special Counsel (Melbourne)
🏢 Dwf
📍 Melbourne