Legal Counsel

About the role

We're seeking a motivated and talented Legal Counsel to join our Agency Services team. Reporting to the General Counsel, you'll play a vital role in shaping the future of the real estate industry in NSW as in-house legal advisor to REINSW, and to assist with agency practice, policy development and the development and maintenance of agency forms and agreements.

This is an exciting opportunity for someone who enjoys diving into interesting issues, working with industry stakeholders and influencing positive change. You'll have the chance to mentor and support junior colleagues, contribute to industry updates, projects and resources, and be at the forefront of key advocacy initiatives.

What you'll be doing

1. Mentor, supervise and train the Graduate Legal Counsel and review their work.

1. Mentor the Policy Officer and any casuals or interns.

1. Work collaboratively with members of the Agency Services Team.

1. Advise the Agency Services Team on legislation, policy and agency queries, issues, practices and procedures.

2. Assist the General Counsel and other members of the Agency Services Team.

3. Analyse, assess and advise on new and emerging policy and legislative initiatives and changes from government and other bodies in relation to their impact on the real estate industry, members and from a compliance perspective.

4. Manage and maintain a list of all real estate agency forms and agreements and all legal matters allocated to the Legal team.

5. Manage a calendar of key deadlines and milestones for the Legal team, ensure matters are completed within requisite timeframes, review priorities daily to ensure tasks are on track and keep the General Counsel informed of progress, as required, to ensure deadlines are not missed.

6. On a weekly basis, monitor agency practice and market issues which may impact real estate practice and provide information on emergent trends or issues of interest to the General Counsel and, on instruction from the General Counsel, to REINSW and its members (including, without limitation, members of the Agency Services Team, other REINSW departments, Committees and REINSW’s board of directors).  

7. Develop and maintain a high-level of knowledge of the New South Wales professional real estate industry, industry legislation and regulation, and government policy.

8. Make Presidential Appointments in accordance with the applicable policy for the purpose of the REINSW President appointing an independent professional to a matter referred to REINSW.

9. Undergo quarterly training on property-related legislation and policy, software, agency practice issues, processes and compliance-related issues.

10. In addition to the quarterly training above, complete annual required Continuing Legal Education (CLE) study, ensure legal practising certificate is current at all times, and maintain records as required by the Law Society of New South Wales.

11. Brief and manage external lawyers as required, subject to General Counsel approval.

What we're looking for

To be successful in this role, you will have:

• Law degree - LLB or equivalent

• A solicitor of the Supreme Court of NSW

• Unrestricted practising certificate

• 8-10+ years PQE

• Experience or knowledge of the real estate industry

• Enthusiastic and interested in the real estate industry

• Experience in supervising a team

• Strong compliance knowledge

• An understanding of legislative compliance requirements within an organisation

• Superior legal research skills

• Quality administration experience

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office products, internet, email and use of AI

• Strategic thinker and strategic planning skills

• Proven ability to work well under pressure

• Highly organised, with exceptional attention to detail

• Self-motivated, confident and uses initiative

• Exceptional time management and prioritising skills

What we offer

At REINSW, you'll find more than just a job – you'll join a community that cares about making a difference. We offer:

• The chance to influence real policy and legislative outcomes and contribute to the future of real estate in NSW

• A collaborative, supportive team culture where your ideas are valued and pursued

• Opportunities for professional growth and development

• A role that combines policy, law, advocacy and industry engagement – no two days are the same

• Work-life balance - working from home arrangements

• 3 mental health days each year in addition to sick leave

• Diverse projects - expand your knowledge and skills in an exciting and diverse role

• Convenient CBD location – close to public transport

How to apply

If you're ready to use your skills to make an impact, we'd love to hear from you. Please submit your CV, a cover letter outlining your experience and interest in the role, academic transcripts and a submission or essay (or equivalent) you have recently written to demonstrate your drafting skills. Regrettably, if you do not provide these things then your application cannot be considered.