Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead complex legal matters and provide strategic advice at a top global university.
- Company: Join UWA, ranked among the world's top 100 universities with a vibrant campus culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy 26 weeks paid parental leave, 4 weeks annual leave, and 25% off UWA courses.
- Why this job: Make an impact in higher education while working in a diverse and inclusive environment.
- Qualifications: Must be an admitted legal practitioner in WA with experience in complex commercial contracts.
- Other info: Position subject to background checks; apply online by 10 August 2025.
The predicted salary is between 100000 - 106000 £ per year.
- 26 weeks paid parental leave after one year and 36 weeks after five years continuous service, regardless of gender.
- 4 weeks annual leave with the option to purchase more.
- 13 weeks long service leave after seven/ten years.
- Salary packaging options.
- 17% superannuation, with the option to reduce to the minimum super guarantee.
- 25% off UWA full fee courses, discounted health insurance, and convenient on-campus childcare options.
- Incremental progression based on 12 months continuous service.
Senior Legal Counsel
Job no: 522504
Work type: Full Time
Location: Crawley
Categories: Policy and Planning
- Diverse, high value legal matters
- Purpose driven university impact
- Full-time appointment on an ongoing basis.
- Attractive and flexible Remuneration Package.
About the area
The Legal team plays a critical role within the Office of the Vice-Chancellery in ensuring it provides expert legal guidance and support on a broad range of matters affecting the institution. This includes advising on governance, compliance, contracts, intellectual property, and risk management. The role involves working closely with senior leadership to navigate legal challenges, ensure adherence to regulations, and support strategic decision-making.
About the opportunity
- Provide independent, pragmatic legal advice and services to the University’s Executive, senior leaders, schools, business units and staff, supporting delivery of the University’s strategic plan.
- Draft, negotiate and manage a broad range of high level and complex contracts on behalf of the University.
- Prepare and advise on other legal instruments and documentation as required to support University operations and governance.
About you
- Admission as a legal practitioner in Western Australia with at least 5 years post admission experience.
- Substantial and extensive experience in the provision of legal services in a private practice or in-house legal environment. Experience in a higher education institution, public service or other public authority an advantage, but not required.
- Demonstrated ability to interpret, advise on, negotiate and draft complex commercial agreements in a broad range of areas relevant to the University.
- Substantial experience in taking instructions from and providing advice to large organisations and a variety of stakeholders.
- Knowledge of statutes and the processes of government and government agencies that relate to the University, e.g. Office of the Auditor General, Ombudsman WA, Corruption and Crime Commission and Office of the Information Commissioners an advantage but not required.
Note: Employment checks will include information on gender-based violence, sexual harassment, and related misconduct to meet legal obligations. A current National Police Clearance and a current unrestricted practicing certificate under the Legal Profession Uniform Law (WA) will be required by the successful applicant.
Please apply online via the Apply Now button. The content of your Resume and Cover Letter should demonstrate how you meet the selection criteria.
Closing date: 11:55 PM AWST on Sunday, 22 February 2026
This position is only open to applicants with relevant rights to work in Australia.
Note: Unsolicited applications from recruitment agencies will not be accepted outside of formal channels.
About the University
The University of Western Australia (UWA) is ranked among the top 100 universities in the world and a member of the prestigious Australian Group of Eight research intensive universities. With a strong research track record, vibrant campus and working environments, there is no better time to join Western Australia’s top university.
Our commitment to inclusion and diversity
UWA is committed to a diverse workforce and an equitable and inclusive workplace. We are committed to fostering a safe environment for all, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, women, those from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, the LGBTIQA+ community, and people living with disability.
If you require any reasonable adjustments, we encourage you to advise us at the time of application. Alternatively, you can contact us for assistance during the recruitment process.
If you have queries relating to your application, please contact the individual named in the advertisement. Alternatively, please contact the Talent team at
people@uwa.edu.au
with details of your query. To enable a quick response, please include the 6-digit job reference number.
Advertised: 06 Feb 2026 W. Australia Standard Time
Applications close: 22 Feb 2026 W. Australia Standard Time
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Senior Legal Counsel employer: University of Western Australia
Contact Detail:
University of Western Australia Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Legal Counsel
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific legal frameworks and regulations that govern higher education in Australia. Understanding these will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the legal field, especially those who work in or with universities. Attend relevant seminars or workshops to gain insights and make connections that could be beneficial during the application process.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience with complex commercial contracts in detail. Be ready to provide examples of how you've successfully navigated similar legal challenges in the past, as this will showcase your expertise.
✨Tip Number 4
Research UWA's current legal initiatives and challenges. Being knowledgeable about their recent projects or legal matters will allow you to tailor your discussions and show that you're genuinely interested in contributing to their goals.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Legal Counsel
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Thoroughly read the job description for the Senior Legal Counsel position. Make sure you understand the key responsibilities, required qualifications, and the specific skills they are looking for.
Tailor Your Resume: Customise your CV to highlight relevant experience in legal practice, particularly in drafting and negotiating complex commercial contracts. Emphasise your ability to advise diverse stakeholders and manage sensitive legal matters.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that directly addresses how your background aligns with the selection criteria. Use specific examples from your experience to demonstrate your expertise and judgement in legal matters.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications: Ensure you mention your admission as a legal practitioner in WA and any significant post-admission experience. If you have knowledge of legislation relevant to higher education or the public sector, make sure to include that as well.
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Western Australia
✨Understand the Role
Make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities of a Senior Legal Counsel. Familiarise yourself with the specific legal areas mentioned in the job description, such as governance, contracts, and compliance, so you can speak confidently about your relevant experience.
✨Showcase Your Expertise
Prepare to discuss your post-admission experience and provide examples of complex commercial contracts you've drafted or negotiated. Highlight your ability to advise diverse stakeholders and manage sensitive legal matters effectively.
✨Demonstrate Cultural Fit
UWA values diversity and inclusion, so be ready to discuss how you can contribute to a positive workplace culture. Share experiences that showcase your collaborative approach and commitment to fostering an inclusive environment.
✨Prepare Questions
Have insightful questions ready for the interviewers about the Legal Directorate's strategic initiatives and how they align with UWA’s goals. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if the university is the right fit for you.
