Legal Counsel

• Full Time Fixed Term Parental Leave Cover until 27/11/2026
• Salary from $122,672 to $130,758 per annum, plus superannuation
• Support a dynamic, innovative and expanding in-house legal team in one of Australia's fastest growing local governments

About the Role

This position presents a unique opportunity to work autonomously in an in-house, high performing team that promises to put your technical legal skills to use. The position reports to the General Counsel (within the Office of the CEO directorate), and works closely with other business specialists in Governance, Risk and Assurance. This position is supported by a Legal Support Officer. 

The environment strives for best practice in all transactions and has a genuine philosophy and commitment for continuous improvement. The work is multifaceted and thus this role requires a strong technical operator as well as someone who can quickly build rapport across a large stakeholder base.

The key functions of the Legal Services team are to:

• Provide practical, timely and accessible legal advice to the organisation;
• Prepare and review critical legal documentation;
• Support officer empowerment and development through training and resource production on legislative and compliance issues;
• Manage the external Legal Services Panel, including the coordination of legal advice and the preparation of briefs; and
• Identifying and accordingly briefing Executive Officers and/or the CEO on strategic legal issues and risks.

About You

For this position we would like to hear from applicants with at least three years' post qualification experience. The work-load and typography is diverse, and whilst experience in planning, property, and/or contracts/procurement would be beneficial, the applicant really needs to be capable of being a generalist who can interpret and apply legislation and quickly upskill in the regulatory requirements of local government. 

Experience gained within a government or a regulatory context will be viewed favourably, but is not critical.

To be considered, you must have:

• A demonstrated capacity in efficiently managing matters and your own workload and work flow
• An ability to analyse issues and make sound recommendations, and a firm but accessible approach which allows your advice to be disseminated by all levels of the organisation.
• An understanding of the legislative framework applicable to local government.
• Must be admitted as a solicitor or barrister of the Supreme Court of an Australian State or Territory and must hold, or be eligible to hold, a current practising certificate.

The ideal candidate will be dynamic, robust and have a character orientated around solutions. You will be someone who is commercial, hardworking and above all accountable.

So… why join the City of Wanneroo?

Joining the City of Wanneroo means becoming part of a progressive and fast-growing local government, where your legal expertise will make a real impact on a thriving and diverse community. Here's why this opportunity stands out:

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1. Challenging, Meaningful Legal Work

•    You'll be a key player in a high-performing in-house legal team, advising on matters across governance, contracts, property, procurement, and local government law.

•    This is not a back-office role — your work directly shapes the legal and operational direction of one of Australia's fastest-growing cities.

•    You'll report directly to the General Counsel, with direct access to senior decision-makers and meaningful opportunities to advise on strategic legal risk.

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2. Autonomy & Support

•    The role offers a unique balance of independence and collaboration, supported by a Legal Support Officer and a team of specialists in Governance, Risk, and Assurance.

•    You'll be trusted to manage your own matters, while contributing to a culture of continuous improvement and empowering officers through legal training.

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3. Flexible & Modern Work Environment

•    Choose your working rhythm with 9-day fortnights, flexible hours (7am–7pm span), hybrid work, and Time Off In Lieu (TOIL) options.

•    Generous leave benefits include:

o    5 weeks annual leave

o    2 Wellness Days and 1 Volunteer Day annually

o    12 weeks paid parental leave

o    Access to cultural, family responsibility, and reproductive health leave

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4. Strong Organisational Culture & Purpose

•    You'll work in a team that values collaboration, commercial acumen, accountability, and practical problem-solving.

•    The City prioritises diversity, inclusion, and community impact — with a workforce where 56% of employees live locally, and your contributions are visible in the community around you.

•    A focus on training, development, and internal mobility means your career can grow with the organisation.

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5. Perks That Support You

•    Up to 15% superannuation (with matching)

•    Free on-site parking and modern end-of-trip facilities

•    Sit-stand desks and ergonomic workspaces

•    Access to salary packaging, novated leasing, and 50% off Aquamotion gym membership

•    A vibrant social club and employee events that foster real connection

Work Local

With 56% of our workforce living locally, working at the City of Wanneroo isn't just about cutting your commute. This role is a genuine opportunity to contribute to the community you call home. This is work with real purpose, where you will see the impact of your efforts every day – in parks, streets and services around you. It's a meaningful way to give back and shape the future of your City.

The City of Wanneroo is a diverse, community-focused organisation where your work makes a real impact, not just for our residents, but for the people you work alongside. We're proud of our inclusive culture and the many perspectives that shape it.

We strongly encourage Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to apply and bring their voice to local government. If you value purpose, collaboration, and a team that welcomes you for who you are, you'll feel at home here.

Want to apply?

If this sounds like your next career move, we'd love to hear from you.

In your cover letter or interview, frame your motivation around:

• Your interest in working closely with decision-makers in a values-driven local government;
• The broad scope of legal issues and your strength as a legal generalist;
• How your commercial mindset and public sector experience make you well-suited to navigate both operational and strategic matters;
• A desire to work closer to community outcomes, not just in theory but visible in parks, infrastructure, and public services;
• Your appreciation for the flexibility, development opportunities, and inclusive workplace culture the City promotes.

Reference number: 697599

Applications close:  Monday 6th October 2025

For further information regarding the position visit the City of Wanneroo website or contact Vicki Coles, General Counsel on

Please note:

• A National Police Clearance (within 3 months) is required prior to commencement.
• All employees must declare secondary employment to manage any potential conflicts of interest and fatigue risks.
• Medical assessment may be required depending on the role.