Senior Solicitor/ Senior Associate

This position is identified; therefore, it is available for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander applicants only.

About the organisation
Terri Janke and Company is a proudly Indigenous-owned and led legal and consulting firm with over 25 years of dedication to empowering First Nations peoples and communities. Renowned for its leadership in Indigenous Cultural and Intellectual Property (ICIP), the firm is driven by a vision of legacy, integrity, and systemic change. Located just 200m from Mascot Station, our modern, vibrant office is home to a diverse, supportive team united by a shared mission to make a difference

About the role
We’re seeking a highly experienced and values-aligned Senior Solicitor / Senior Associate to lead innovative legal and consulting work that drives cultural change and honours Indigenous knowledge systems. This permanent, full-time role offers a diverse and rewarding caseload covering IP and ICIP, governance, arts, environmental regulation, and strategic consulting.

As a Senior Solicitor, you will be responsible for:

• Delivering high-quality legal advice and managing complex, cross-sector matters
• Leading national consulting projects and contributing to major reviews (e.g. cultural heritage, racism, environment)
• Drafting protocols, contracts, licensing frameworks, and policies
• Mentoring junior team members, fostering capability and professional growth
• Representing the firm through workshops, events, and high-level stakeholder engagement
• Driving innovation, thought leadership, and process improvement from within

For a full list of responsibilities for the above roles, please contact Pipeline Talent via [email protected].

About you
You are a legally qualified and culturally grounded leader with over five years of post-admission experience, holding an unrestricted practising certificate and demonstrating strong expertise across intellectual property, contracts and governance. You thrive in purpose-driven environments that centre Indigenous empowerment and systemic reform, bringing a rare blend of technical legal proficiency, emotional intelligence, and strategic insight. Your exceptional communication skills are reflected in your ability to draft clear, nuanced legal and policy documents and to deliver impactful workshops and culturally respectful consultations. As a collaborative and compassionate leader, you excel at guiding people and projects with integrity and vision. Deeply respectful of Indigenous knowledge systems, you are committed to cultural safety, advocacy, and legacy-building in everything you do.

Key Selection Criteria

1. Extensive experience delivering high-quality legal advice across commercial, governance, IP, and ICIP matters, with strong drafting skills in contracts, licences, and protocols.
2. Cultural competence and commitment to ethical engagement with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, grounded in respect for First Nations sovereignty and knowledge systems.
3. Skilled in facilitating consultations that translate community aspirations into actionable legal and policy frameworks.
4. Strong analytical and writing skills, with a record of producing strategic research, policy reviews, and persuasive thought leadership.
5. Confident public presenter and workshop facilitator, able to engage diverse audiences.
6. Experience in a private law firm, meeting a billing budget.

What we can offer you

• A supportive team of legal professionals and purpose-led leaders
• A values-driven culture where empathy, integrity, and innovation thrive
• Flexible hybrid work arrangements and a stunning, centrally located office
• Wellbeing initiatives, and a RAP-aligned, culturally safe workplace
• Regular professional development including in-house training, CPD budget, and guest speaker workshops
• Opportunities for national travel, thought leadership, and contributing to meaningful change
• Celebrations that matter — from birthdays to firm achievements — because your whole self is valued here

How to apply
All applications must be made in writing and include the following:

• Up to date CV
• Cover letter (maximum 3 pages) addressing the Six (6) selection criteria above, outlining why you have applied for the position and how you meet the requirements of the position.

Applications are to be submitted via the Pipeline Talent website.

This advertisement will remain open until a suitable candidate is identified.

How to get more information
For further information on the position, please contact the team at Pipeline Talent.

Megan Ingram
Senior Recruitment Consultant
[email protected] | [email protected]
M 0419 599 251| PH 02 8001 6603