Legal Counsel

• Do you want to do work that really matters? Help us end avoidable blindness
• Full time, Permanent Role based in NSW, VIC or QLD (Flexible work arrangements available)
• Closing Date: Wednesday the 12th of November 2025
  (we will be engaging with candidates prior to the closing date, please apply as soon as possible)

ABOUT THE FRED HOLLOWS FOUNDATION

The Foundation is an international development organisation working to prevent blindness and restore sight. We continue to carry on the legacy of Professor Fred Hollows, who believed every person had the right to quality eye care, no matter where they live. The Foundation has grown to work in more than 25 countries throughout Africa, South Asia, Southeast Asia, the Middle East and the Pacific, as well as Australia. The Foundation has restored sight to more than 3 million people worldwide. We have an ambitious five-year strategic plan that aims to take us even closer to realising our vision of a world in which no person is needlessly blind or vision impaired and Indigenous Australians exercise their right to sight and good health.

ABOUT YOU

You have accountability, enthusiasm, and a strong desire to understand our work. You possess excellent communication skills and the ability to thrive independently in a fast-paced, diverse environment. In addition, you are capable of managing dual responsibilities within a small legal team, adept at identifying and resolving conflicts. A passion for legal services and a desire to contribute to a dynamic and efficient organization are essential. As an energetic self-starter, you demonstrate resilience, interpersonal flexibility, and comfort navigating ambiguity, diversity, and evolving challenges within a development organization spanning over 25 countries.

THE OPPORTUNITY

The Legal Counsel is accountable for supporting the General Counsel in the legal aspects of The Foundation's work, in a way that is aligned to The Foundation's Values and Strategy.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Supporting the Global General Counsel across a range of legal matters in 25+ countries.
• Provide effective and timely legal advice to the business as requested, including reviewing and advising on contracts, intellectual property, corporate and government law matters, being cognizant of the not-for-profit international development sector and The Foundation's context and reputation
• Provide global employment law support including instructing local external counsel where required. Support and advise on the legal aspects of change activity including monitoring relevant local legislation, entering into new jurisdictions and where relevant exit.
• Collaborate with stakeholders on legal aspects of projects including engagement with external legal, accounting, regulatory and industry bodies where appropriate.
• Collaborate within the Legal Governance Risk & Compliance team to enhance delivery of services to stakeholders.

WHAT YOU'LL NEED TO SUCCEED

• Experience with cross-border commercial initiatives
• Experience with employment law
• PQE 4-7+ in Australia or other common law jurisdiction

How we recognise your contribution

Through our internal programs and employee benefits we aim to create an environment where you will feel supported and empowered. Whether your focus is on continuous learning, professional development or finding an environment which enables you to thrive while balancing family or personal commitments, we have a range of programs in place to support you. Including:

• Generous salary packaging, we provide access to not-for-profit salary packaging options, which will increase your take home pay.
• Flexible work environment, we focus on output, not hours and enable you to prioritise your health and wellbeing
• Generous leave allowances
• Ongoing commitment to your continuous learning and career development, through tailored leadership and professional development programs, and focused development conversations.

To find out more about our benefits click here

APPLICATIONS

Please apply directly using the "Apply" button. Your application should include a CV and, preferably, a cover letter that outlines your interest in the role and addresses the key criteria listed in the "Key Responsibilities", and "What you need to succeed" sections of the advertisement.

Applications Close:
Wednesday the 12th of November 2025

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are encouraged to apply for this position.

The Fred Hollows Foundation is committed to protecting the rights of children and community partners in all areas where we work. Applicants are advised that The Foundation reserves the right to conduct police checks and other screening procedures to ensure we maintain and promote a child safe environment.

Please note: We will not be accepting CV's via agencies for this role.