Our Land Rights, Disputes & Advisory team is seeking an experienced lawyer (Associate / 4+ years’ PAE, with some flexibility) to work across our practice and develop into a specialised climate and

You will start by working on compulsory acquisition and dispute matters, while building experience in climate and workplace claims. Over time, the role is intended to become more focused on climate and environment litigation and strategic case work.

About the team

The team undertakes a diverse and impactful range of work, including:

- First Nations work, including native title claims, governance advice and dispute work
- Climate and workplace litigation to prevent and remedy climate and environmental harm
- Compulsory acquisition matters for claimants across Australia, including novel test cases
- General disputes, often with a consumer or land-focused element
- Advisory work, predominantly for not-for-profit and for-purpose organisations

You may bring experience in any of these areas and will have opportunities to contribute across the practice.

What you will do

- Manage a compulsory acquisition and disputes file load, including advising clients, preparing claims and evidence, negotiating with counterparties, and progressing matters from inception to resolution.
- Join an experienced team of climate and environment litigators on long‑term, strategic proceedings, and provide pro‑bono and paid advice on a range of matters.
- Work with senior practitioners to assess potential claims, research and draft advice, conduct litigation and manage client relationships.
- Contribute to strategic and business development activities, including building and maintaining key relationships.
- Collaborate closely with colleagues and contribute to a supportive, high‑performing team culture.
- Provide clear, practical legal and strategic advice tailored to different audiences.




- Deliver consistently high standards of client service.

What you will bring

- Litigation experience in compulsory acquisition, land/property disputes and/or climate and environment related legal work.
- Strong interest in climate change, environmental protection and related laws and campaigns.
- Beneficial (but not essential) experience in one or more of: planning and environment law, energy and resources, environmental regulation, land contamination, First Nations work and/or class actions.
- Experience advising a range of clients (for example individuals, corporates and advocacy organisations).
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including clear, client‑focused advice.
- Strong case analysis, judgement and problem‑solving skills.
- Ability to work both autonomously and collaboratively in a busy team environment.

This is a permanent full‑time role with excellent employment benefits, a supportive team environment and the intrinsic rewards of claimant‑focused work.

Acknowledgement of Country

Slater and Gordon acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respects to Elders past and present and extend that respect to all First Nations peoples today.

Diversity & inclusion

Slater and Gordon is committed to an inclusive workplace that values diversity and ensures equal opportunities for all. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, national origin, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, age or other legally protected attributes. If you require reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process, please let us know in your application.

To be eligible, you must be an Australian citizen, a permanent resident, or hold a valid visa with full and unrestricted working rights in Australia. Proof of work rights will be required as part of the Slater and Gordon application process.

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📌 Lawyer (Melbourne)
🏢 Slater and Gordon Lawyers
📍 Melbourne