Bright Steps Academy runs 13 childcare centres across NSW, VIC, SA, and ACT today. By 2027, we’ll have 29 across five states. We’re not slowing down, we’re leasing and acquiring new centres, navigating multi-state regulation, managing leasing and commercial negotiations, and building the infrastructure to support thousands of families and educators nationally. We need a lawyer who can keep up. About the Role Ditch the billable hour. This is a hands-on, commercially driven in-house role where you’ll own the legal function and work directly with the Directors. No layers of bureaucracy, no six-minute units — just real work that matters. Your week might include: • Negotiating commercial leases and property deals for new centre acquisitions • Running due diligence and legal structuring on acquisitions across multiple states • Managing external barristers and making sure you’re getting value, not just invoices • Advising on regulatory compliance under the NQF, state licensing, and child safety legislation About You You’re commercially sharp, you back yourself, and you don’t shy away from a fight when it matters. You want work with substance — not just a title. You’ll bring: • Current Australian practising certificate with 4 years’ PQE in commercial law • Runs on the board in at least two of: property/leasing, employment law, M&A, or corporate advisory • Strong drafting and negotiation skills — you can hold your own across the table • Comfortable working autonomously and making calls without a partner looking over your shoulder • Bonus: experience in childcare, education, healthcare, or multi-state regulatory environments What’s On Offer • Three days a week, based in Erina — be there for school drop-off and pick-up • No timesheets, no billable targets — just outcomes • Competitive pro-rata salary plus superannuation • Build and own the legal function from the ground up — this is your show • Genuine pathway to full-time as the business scales nationally How to Apply Hit Apply Now on SEEK with your CV and a brief cover letter. Tell us what you’re about and why this role fits. Hiring Line: Jacob Wasef, Director Bright Steps Academy is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating an inclusive workplace. All applicants must hold valid Australian working rights. A Working With Children Check (or state equivalent) will be required prior to commencement.
