Sydney Water is proud to serve the communities of New South Wales, and we are committed to building a workforce that reflects the diversity and strength of our people. We warmly invite First Nations legal professionals to consider joining our Legal and Compliance team as Legal Counsel – Property. This role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to meaningful work that impacts land, water, and infrastructure—areas deeply connected to Country and community. You’ll be part of a team that values cultural knowledge, respects Aboriginal land rights, and is committed to reconciliation and inclusion. About the Role As Legal Counsel – Property, you’ll provide expert legal advice across Sydney Water’s operations, with a strong focus on property law. Your work will support infrastructure development, land access, and planning—ensuring that legal processes are fair, respectful, and culturally informed. Key Responsibilities Deliver high-quality legal advice, particularly in property law, including land access, acquisitions, and infrastructure development. Draft and negotiate property-related agreements such as leases, licences, easements, and service contracts. Advise on compliance with key legislation, including the Land Acquisition (Just Terms Compensation) Act 1991 and the Sydney Water Act 1994. Support teams with property-related legal enquiries and manage litigation matters with external advisers. Build strong relationships with internal stakeholders and external partners, including Aboriginal organisations and communities. Share legal insights and contribute to knowledge management across the Legal unit. Skills and Experience 4–6 years post-admission experience in property law, ideally across both private practice and in-house roles. Strong skills in drafting, negotiation, and legal risk assessment. Experience working with government authorities and regulatory frameworks. Desirable: Experience in Aboriginal Land Claims, Native Title, land/easement acquisition, and planning litigation. Why Join Us? Be part of a team that values cultural knowledge Help shape legal practices that respect and reflect First Nations values and rights. Work on projects that connect deeply with Country, community, and culture. Sydney Water is committed to Reconciliation, and we actively support First Nations staff through inclusive policies, We strongly encourage First Nations lawyers with experience in Aboriginal Land Rights and Native Title to apply. Your voice and expertise are vital to shaping a more inclusive future. Requirements • Demonstrated experience working on large projects and land/easement acquisitions (by agreement and compulsory process) in accordance with the Land Acquisition (Just Terms Compensation) Act 1991). • Property/planning litigation experience in the Land and Environment Court • Experience in managing Native Title and Aboriginal Land Claims over Crown Land Application Instructions: Please apply through our talent community - https://talent.sydneywater.com.au/job/QDNYC/ Benefits Dive into Our Great Benefits! • Competitive Compensation: We’ll ensure that your skills and contributions are valued and rewarded appropriately. • Hybrid Work Environment: We offer a hybrid work model that balances remote work and office collaboration, supporting our team's productivity and well-being. • Continuous Professional Growth: We will invest in your career with leadership and development programs to propel your success. • 24/7 Wellbeing Support: Access for you and your family to free and confidential mental health and general health support through our EAP portal. • Discounted Private Health Insurance: Unlock affordable access to top-tier health coverage with our discounted insurance plans. • Family First: Prioritise your family with up to 18 weeks of fully paid parental leave and a generous childcare allowance. • Fitness Passport: Achieve your physical fitness goals using our Fitness Passport, granting you access to a multitude of gyms and pools across NSW. • Novated Leasing: Get in the driver's seat of your financial future with our novated lease options. Statement from Indigenous Job Match (IJM) on Sydney Water’s Commitment to Cultural Safety and Reconciliation Indigenous Job Match is proud to collaborate with Sydney Water—an organisation that demonstrates a meaningful commitment to reconciliation, cultural safety, and First Nations inclusion. Sydney Water’s active Reconciliation Action Plan and workplace practices reflect a deep respect for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, cultures, and histories. Their efforts to embed cultural learning, enable inclusive employment pathways, and honour Caring for Country principles set a strong foundation for sustainable and respectful partnerships . By creating culturally safe spaces and supporting First Nations voices across legal, operational, and governance roles, Sydney Water is not only listening—they’re leading. Their Legal Counsel – Property role, in particular, reflects an understanding of the unique connection between land, law, and culture, and we commend their focus on engaging Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander professionals in shaping this future. We at Indigenous Job Match look forward to supporting Sydney Water’s journey as they continue to build a workplace where First Nations people feel heard, respected, and empowered to thrive.