We have a fantastic opportunity for an experienced Lawyer to join our Corporate and Commercial team in Melbourne.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

- Advising on school regulation (State and Federal) and charity corporate governance issues (Corporations Act, State/Territory
- Associations Acts, ACNC governance standards), including directors’ duties and liability, conflicts of interest, and election and appointment of directors, and associated disputes.
- Developing and reviewing governing documents (company constitutions, association rules, foundations and deductible gift recipient funds) and governing documents (board charters, corporate policies). Advising on major governance reforms.
- Drafting and advising on commercial agreements, such as related party agreements, venue hire, sponsorships, consultancies, funding and grants.
- Responding to regulator requests and reviewing and advising on legal compliance issues.
- Advising on business structures and restructures, including the creation and restructure of companies, trusts, not-for-profit organisations and charitable foundations.
- Contributing to business development and legal precedents in Russell Kennedy sectors of focus.
- Undertaking legal research to remain up to date with legislative changes and developments.
- Business development activities to build qualified profile, including preparing articles, delivering presentations, supporting seminars, and developing client relationships.
- Contributing to the Learning and Development programs at Russell Kennedy, including creating and presenting CPD sessions for others at the firm.

Skills/Knowledge

- Understanding of independent school and charity regulatory environment.
- Shows well-developed drafting skills and a consistent attention to detail.
- Effective communication skills, with the ability to present information clearly and concisely.
- Demonstrates commercial awareness and a willingness to work across a range of matters.
- Shows initiative and developing critical thinking skills.




- An interest in building client relationships and contributing to business development activities.
- Able to work both independently and collaboratively, seeking guidance where appropriate.
- Positive and approachable, with a willingness to support team collaboration and learn from others.
- Building capability in financial management, including time recording and file management.

Experience

- 1 - 2 years PAE working in general corporate and commercial matters.
- Experience in the education or not-for-profit sectors is preferred, however, not essential.

Further Information

Any questions regarding the vacancy can be directed to Heidi Connell on or For further information or to submit your application for this position please visit the careers page on our website. Please note any offer of employment made by Russell Kennedy Lawyers to the successful candidate will be subject to a police check.We are currently accepting applications from direct applicants only. No agency referrals will be accepted at this stage.

Our Firm and Culture

R ussell Kennedy isa commercial law firm with more than 350 people in Melbourne and Sydney. At Russell Kennedy we are committed toproviding exceptional legal strategies and solutions to our clients, guided bymarket-leading expertise across our key sectors of focus.

W e’re committed tomaking a difference for our clients, providing opportunities for our people,and delivering lasting change for our community. As part of our team, you’ll receive hands‑onexperience, quality mentoring and access to valuable learning opportunities.



We encourage a professional and committedwork ethic, while recognising the importance of an enjoyable workingenvironment and balanced lifestyle.

A t Russell Kennedy,we respect and celebrate the things that make each of us different. The firm is dedicated to creating anenvironment that is characterised by equal access and respected participationof all groups and individuals. This isregardless of all differences, including culture, ethnicity, race, sex, genderidentity, age, religion, personal circumstances, physical features, abilitiesand disabilities, socioeconomics and sexual orientation.

W e believe we havea culture where individuals of all backgrounds and abilities feel included andconfident in bringing their whole selves to work, and where your talents arefostered, empowering you to contribute to the success of the firm.

R ussell Kennedy isproud to be an equal opportunity employer and is certified as a WGEA Employerof Choice for Gender Equality. We arecommitted to being an LGBTIQ-friendly and disability-confident employer. The firm supports and promotes a range ofinitiatives including, the Russell Kennedy Women’s Network and our Diversityand Inclusion committee, with three key focuses: Access RK (Accessibility and Disability),Kaleidoscope (Cultural Diversity) and (LGBTIQ).

R ussell Kennedy isdedicated to creating and participating in ameaningful process of reconciliation as part of the broader nationalreconciliation movement. Our key aims inembarking on our first RAP are to celebrate the deep knowledge of First Nations communities, the longest continuingcultures in the world, acknowledge past wrongs and to begin to build astructured future together where we can play our part in righting those wrongsthough our own reconciliation initiatives.

R ussell Kennedy iscommitted to attracting the best talent available and is open to discussingflexible work arrangements and workplace adjustments for all of our listedvacancies.

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📌 Lawyer – Corporate and Commercial (Melbourne)
🏢 Russell Kennedy Lawyers
📍 Melbourne