Senior Associate – Workplace Relations, Education & Safety (Melbourne) A law firm is seeking experienced Senior Associates to join their Workplace Relations, Education & Safety teams in Melbourne and Sydney, as part of their expanding national schools practice. These roles provide diverse and engaging work alongside opportunities for direct client engagement. Successful candidates will contribute to a growing, purpose-driven national team, working on complex matters such as employment, industrial relations, equal opportunity, student safety, duty of care, and stakeholder management in independent education. The ideal candidates possess a strong commercial mindset, excellent technical skills, and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced, intellectually stimulating environment. The firm is looking for self-motivated professionals eager to grow and become pivotal members of the Workplace Relations, Education & Safety teams. Primary Duties and Responsibilities: Providing employment advice on various issues, including employment commencement, performance management, termination, equal opportunity, workplace harassment prevention, and health and safety. Drafting employment contracts, contracts for services, deeds, policies, pleadings, and more. Negotiating and preparing Enterprise Agreements. Advising clients on award coverage and interpreting enterprise agreements. Conducting litigation for unfair dismissal, industrial action, bullying claims, breach of contract, and discrimination claims. Advising on mandatory reporting and compliance with reportable conduct schemes. Managing issues related to student discipline and safety. Handling stakeholder and media management. Keeping updated on employment law changes through research. Engaging in business development, article writing, and conducting client presentations. Mentoring junior lawyers and promoting professional growth within the team. Contributing to the firm’s internal Learning and Development programs. Maintaining accurate records and billing. Upholding cyber security measures. Skills/Knowledge: A minimum of 4–5 years’ post-admission experience in workplace relations law is required. Experience in the education sector, specifically related to student safety, is advantageous. Strong drafting skills and the ability to handle a varied and intellectually stimulating workload. Excellent critical and strategic thinking abilities. About the Firm: This commercial law firm is committed to delivering exceptional legal strategies through market-leading expertise. They provide hands-on experience, quality mentoring, and diverse learning opportunities, fostering a culture of inclusion and balance. The firm promotes equality, diversity, and flexible work options, supporting equal access and participation for all individuals.
