Lawyer to Associate, Government

SHL; Sydney; On-site; AUD 120,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

Sparke Helmore is seeking a Lawyer to Associate in its Government Public & Regulatory team, based in Sydney or Canberra. You will work with Commonwealth clients on regulatory matters, supported by a top-tier team in a dynamic environment.

The role targets lawyers with at least one year in litigation or government work. Ambition, collaboration, and excellence are valued as you develop expertise in Administrative Law and client relations.

Qualifications

• At least 1 year experience in a litigation or government team.
• Solid grounding and demonstrated interest in Administrative Law.
• Ambitious candidate who thrives in a driven, collaborative team.

Responsibilities

• Advise Commonwealth on a diverse range of administrative and regulatory matters.
• Contribute to advisory and litigation work in a fast-paced government environment.
• Develop client relationships and collaborate with Partners and specialists.

Skills

Litigation experience

Government experience

Administrative Law interest

Job description

Why Sparke Helmore?

As an independent Australian firm with a long history and a big heart, we have a rich story to tell. Our spirit is built on the power of relationships with our people, clients and communities.

At Sparke Helmore, you’ll be actively involved as part of a diverse, genuine and friendly team. We’ll help you harness your ambition and take your skills to new heights with exposure to outstanding clients and easy access to exceptional leaders and mentors.

Your story is yours to define. We’d like to be part of it and for you to be part of ours.

We have an exciting opportunity for a Lawyer to Associate to join our highly rated Government Public & Regulatory practice in Sydney or Canberra working with Partners, Karwan Eskerie , Mia Donald , and Alanna Lucchese.

About the team and the work

• You will be acting for a range of Commonwealth clients in one of the largest and most highly regarded Government teams in the country.
• This is an intellectually challenging role where you will have the opportunity to advise the Commonwealth on a diverse range of administrative and regulatory matters in a fast-paced environment.
• You will have access to top quality work, training, and support as you hone your advisory and litigation skills.
• You will be assisting with some of the highest profile, sensitive and strategic matters in the country, and working with leading experts in the field.
• It is the team’s culture to develop the practice of individual lawyers according to their personal aspirations and interests.
• You will be offered an empowering environment where you will be able to shape your career in Government law in areas of your interest.
• You will have the opportunity to lead, develop client relationships, and shine!

What the market says

• Finalist: Lawyers Weekly Australian Law Awards – Government Team of the Year, 2025.
• Recognised: Best Law Firms 2027 ranked by Best Lawyers – Ranked Tier 1 for Government Practice, Public Law, and Immigration Law.
• Ranked in Chambers Asia-Pacific.
• Partners, lawyers and teams recognised in Doyle’s and in Best Lawyers.
• The Australasian Lawyer 5-Star Employer of Choice, 2023, 2024 & 2025.

About you

• Ideally you will have at least 1 year experience in a highly regarded litigation or government team.
• The successful candidate will have a solid grounding and demonstrated interest in Administrative Law.
• The role suits an ambitious lawyer who is committed to this area of the law, enjoys working in a driven and highly collaborative team, and settles for nothing less than excellence.

What Sparke Helmore can offer you

Our culture is one which values and celebrates diversity to better represent the communities in which we live and work. We encourage people from all backgrounds to join us - and bring their whole selves to work.

We recognise people value things differently. That’s why our comprehensive benefits program is wide ranging so that everyone can find something that appeals to them. We’re sure you will find something to love about what Sparke Helmore has to offer.

To find out more about what is on offer at Sparke Helmore please visit our website: Join us

We believe the best stories are shared

Background Screening: Successful applications will be subject to pre-employment and in some circumstances, ongoing background checks which include a criminal history check.

For further information regarding this opportunity please contact Anthony Demarco on [phone].