Role Snapshot Advise government and private sector clients on major project approvals, planning law, and environment and sustainability regulation. Work across landmark infrastructure, energy, transport and urban renewal developments. Join a top-tier national environment and planning team within a global law firm. About Our Client Our client is a global firm with a market-leading Environment & Planning practice. Known for its deep sector expertise and collaborative culture, the firm advises across the entire lifecycle of public and private developments—from site acquisition and approvals through to environmental compliance, disputes and project delivery. The team acts on some of Australia’s most high-profile urban, transport and energy infrastructure projects. About the Role As an Associate, you will work closely with senior lawyers and partners on a broad range of front-end advisory and disputes work. You’ll assist clients with major project approvals, environmental impact assessments, planning pathways and appeals under state and federal legislation. The role offers exposure to both regulatory strategy and litigation arising from planning, land acquisition and environmental compliance. You’ll work across diverse sectors including energy, transport, social infrastructure, critical minerals and precinct development, gaining hands-on experience with influential government and private stakeholders. Key Responsibilities Provide legal advice on environmental approvals, planning permits and regulatory requirements under relevant state and Commonwealth laws. Assist in navigating planning processes for major infrastructure, urban development and energy projects. Draft and review planning and environmental documentation, submissions and court or tribunal materials. Support clients in Land and Environment Court matters, VCAT proceedings and regulatory investigations. Liaise with government agencies, consultants and community stakeholders. Contribute to internal knowledge development and mentor junior team members as required. Practice Focus Environmental impact assessment and regulatory compliance Land use planning, zoning and development approval Environment and planning litigation and appeals Major public infrastructure and private development Renewable energy, transport and urban regeneration projects Candidate Profile Experience in environment and/or planning law, ideally from a top-tier or specialist practice Solid knowledge of state and federal planning and environmental frameworks (e.g. EPBC Act, Planning and Environment Act, Environmental Planning and Assessment Act) Experience with front-end advisory and/or litigation work in the planning or environmental context Strong analytical, drafting and stakeholder engagement skills Admitted to practise law in Australia What’s on Offer High-impact work on nation-shaping developments and infrastructure Access to top-tier mentoring and development in a collaborative, future-focused team Career progression and international secondment opportunities A flexible and inclusive workplace culture Competitive remuneration aligned with experience and performance How to Apply Project Experience: Highlight planning, environmental or infrastructure matters you’ve advised on. Legal Skills: Provide examples of drafting, approvals navigation or litigation involvement. To apply, send your CV and a short cover letter. For a confidential discussion, contact: Ivan Pignataro | Director, D’Arcy Weil T: 61 3 9999 7409 | M: 0416 507 856 | E: ivan@darcyweil.com D’Arcy Weil is a First Recruitment International company. EnvironmentLaw PlanningLaw LegalJobs InfrastructureLaw EnergyTransition UrbanDevelopment Litigation VCAT LEC ProjectApprovals EnvironmentalCompliance AssociateRole SydneyJobs MelbourneJobs
