Legal Counsel at University of Newcastle

Apply for Legal Counsel at University of Newcastle in Callaghan, NSW, AU. This Visa sponsorship job abroad position offers great opportunities for career growth. Strategic in-house legal role with broad and varied work exposure. 17% super, generous annual, personal, and life leave, health & fitness discounts Be challenged and imagine with us As Legal Counsel, you'll work at the heart of a complex and dynamic organisation, with a focus on commercial and procurement transactions. You'll draft and negotiate a broad range of matters, and partner with senior leaders and stakeholders to deliver practical, solutions-focused legal advice. The role also offers exposure to research, governance, employment and regulatory matters, making it an excellent opportunity for a commercially minded lawyer who enjoys varied work and wants to contribute to significant projects at a world-leading university committed to equity, excellence and community impact. We welcome applications from experienced legal professionals seeking flexibility and are open to considering a part-time arrangement of 4 days per week for the right candidate.

In this role you will:

- Provide timely and pragmatic legal advice across commercial, property, employment, research, governance and regulatory matters.
- Draft, review and negotiate a wide range of contracts, agreements and other legal documents.
- Identify legal risks and deliver practical solutions that support strategic objectives.
- Conduct legal research and prepare clear, audience-appropriate advice.
- Support major University projects and transactions, including procurement, technology, construction, leasing and other property matters, and intellectual property.
- Review policies and procedures to ensure legal compliance and effective risk management.
- Build strong relationships with stakeholders across the University.
- Assist in promoting legal compliance and improving awareness of legal obligations.
- Liaise with external legal providers and specialist advisors when required.
- Contribute to a collaborative, professional and client-focused legal team.





The ideal candidate will also have demonstrated experience in general property transactions and advice, including the drafting, preparation and negotiation of leasing arrangements and licences, and advising on title and tenure issues. This full-time continuing position, is at a HEW 9, and located at the Callaghan Campus (Awabakal and Worimi land).

How will you inspire us?

You will:

- Bring sound legal judgement and a solutions-focused approach to complex matters.
- Build trusted relationships with a diverse range of stakeholders.
- Communicate legal concepts clearly and effectively to non-legal audiences.
- Demonstrate exceptional drafting skills and attention to detail.
- Balance competing priorities while delivering high-quality outcomes.
- Show initiative and adaptability in a fast-paced environment.
- Contribute positively to a collaborative and supportive team culture.
- Maintain the highest standards of professionalism, integrity and ethical practice.
- Embrace innovation and continuously seek opportunities to improve processes and outcomes.
- Support a culture of equity, inclusion, respect and accountability.

About our University

The University of Newcastle stands as a global leader distinguished by a commitment to equity and excellence. Our vision is to be a world-leading University for our regions and create a better future for our regions and the globe. Underpinned by this vision are our values of excellence, equity, engagement and sustainability.

About the Unit Legal and Governance Services (LGS) is led by the General Counsel and Chief Governance Officer and is part of the Vice-Chancellor’s Division LGS provides a range of professional and governance support services to the Academic Senate, the Council,



the Vice-Chancellor, senior executives and other officers within the Colleges and Divisions.

What we offer

Remuneration of Higher Education Worker Level 9 ($140,791-$150,846) + 17% superannuation, commensurate with skills and experience.

- Additional University Holiday days, generous personal, life, and parental leave, annual leave loading, and additional purchased leave scheme.
- Discounts on private health insurance, gym memberships, software, travel and more.
- A range of support and wellbeing programs.

For more information on advantages and conditions, please follow this link.

Our assessment process

Typically, candidates that progress beyond the shortlist stage can expect to undertake the following (minimum) assessment activities as part of the recruitment process:

- Interview (an ‘in person’ interview will be conducted as part of the process)
- Referee checks
- Pre-employment checks as appropriate to the role

The completion and return of the University’s Gender-based Violence Declaration Form will form part of the pre-employment checks for this position and any offer of employment will be conditional upon review by the University.

Our University is committed to creating a secure, respectful, and inclusive environment for every member of our community. This commitment is central to our values and our efforts to build a diverse workforce where everyone can thrive.

As part of this, and in alignment with the National Higher Health Sciences Code to Prevent and Respond to Gender-Based Violence 2025, from 1 January 2026, the University will also consider gender-based violence risk factors as part of our recruitment processes.

Women and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander candidates are particularly encouraged to apply.

Contact Us

For specific position enquiries, please contact Kate Miller, Senior Legal Counsel on email at or call . Having technical difficulties? Please reach out to us: Please note, we do not accept email applications.

Closing date: Tuesday 20th October 2026 at 11.59pm AEDST

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📌 Legal Counsel at University of Newcastle
🏢 University of Newcastle
📍 Newcastle