Corporate Counsel

Overview South East Water invites applications for the role of Corporate Counsel.
A key member of the Legal team, the Corporate Counsel ensures that South East Water performs its functions, powers and duties in accordance with the Water Act 1989 and other legal obligations to achieve operational and strategic objectives.
Reporting to the General Counsel, you will provide practical, business-focused advice on a range of complex legal matters.
With a public law focus, you will be able to examine and distil complex legal issues into clear, pragmatic solutions-focused advice.
You will also provide support to the General Counsel in core compliance areas such as privacy and freedom of information.
While no two days look the same, day-to-day tasks may include the following responsibilities: Responsibilities Provide specialist legal advice and services to South East Water, including on its powers, duties and functions under the Water Act 1989 (Vic).
Manage the review of a range of corporate policies and procedures.
Provide advice on property matters including leases, licenses, easements and associated issues.
Oversee and resolve contractual issues with suppliers that challenge South East Water's procurement terms.
Manage the preparation and completion of contracts for construction and other works.
Assist in responding to FOI requests and privacy complaints and in reviewing privacy impact assessments.
Qualifications Preferred Qualifications The preferred candidate will hold tertiary qualifications in law and will be admitted to practice as an Australian Lawyer.
You will have at least five years' post-admission experience, with at least three years practicing at a major law firm, together with the following skills and attributes: Expertise in drafting and interpreting commercial agreements of all types, including leases and licences.
Experience in handling privacy and freedom of information and other areas of compliance.
Ability to provide legal advice concerning statutory interpretation, regulated businesses and property matters.
Experience in managing complex litigated claims, including providing direction to external legal providers.
Knowledge and understanding of obligations under the Water Act, with experience in the Water industry an advantage.
Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to work with and build strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
What's in it for you? Working at South East Water means you can enjoy a wealth of benefits, including: Access to My Fitness Passport, an Employee Assistance Program (EAP), annual flu shots, and health checks.
Flexible working arrangements, including hybrid options and leave purchasing for work-life balance.
Life insurance and salary continuance.
15 weeks paid parental leave and paid superannuation on eligible portions of unpaid parental leave.
Additional leave offerings, such as cultural and ceremonial leave and study leave.
Head office with modern facilities, including beachfront views, a parents' room, a prayer and meditation room, an onsite cafe, and free parking.
Opportunity to be part of initiatives involving the local community.
We\'re for everyone Our people are diverse and our organisation is committed to Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging.
We encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, LGBTIQ+ individuals, people with disability and jobseekers of all ages and cultures.
We aim to provide an inclusive, accessible workplace where everyone is welcome, safe, and celebrated.
If you need any help with the application process or would like to discuss reasonable adjustments during interviews, please reach out to our Talent team at Keen to make an impact? Click here to check out the position description.
Applications are open until Wednesday, 3 September 2025.
To be considered, you must hold unrestricted working rights for the period of employment at the time of application.
Successful candidates may be required to undergo pre-employment checks, including a police records check.
South East Water operates a 24/7 service environment.
While this role does not involve after-hours rostered duty, all employees may be required to provide out-of-hours support from time to time as required.
Visit southeastwater.com.au to learn more about us and how we serve our customers.
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