Senior Legal Counsel

Department of Energy and Economic Diversification; Perth South; On-site; CAD 178,000 - 237,000; Full time

Job summary

The Department of Energy and Economic Diversification (DEED) WA seeks a Senior Legal Counsel to join its Legal Services division, providing high-level in-house legal advice on complex commercial matters and regulatory issues.

You will lead negotiations, support policy development, and liaise with internal teams and external stakeholders. A strong track record in contract law and navigating government processes is essential.

This fixed-term 18 months role may extend, with a view to permanency.

Qualifications

• Qualified lawyer with in-house counsel experience.
• Strong background in commercial or contract law.
• Experience negotiating complex legal matters with stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Provide high-level in-house legal advice on complex matters.
• Lead negotiations on behalf of the Department.
• Contribute to policy development, standards and strategies.

Skills

In-house counsel

Commercial law

Legal negotiation

Stakeholder liaison

Leadership

Education

Bachelor of Laws

Admission to practice

Tools

Legal research

Job description

Shape the Future of Western Australia

Join a department that’s powering WA’s energy transition and building a bold, diverse economy for generations to come. At the Department of Energy and Economic Diversification (DEED), your work will help drive innovation, support local businesses, and position WA on the global stage. If you're ready to make a real impact - this is where your next chapter begins.

Grow your career with us

Explore our career opportunities and graduate program to discover how you can make a meaningful impact. For current vacancies, visit us on LinkedIn or head to the DEED corporate website.

About The Department

DEED is responsible for securing the State’s energy and economic future, driving innovation and long-term prosperity for all. This includes:

• Ensuring Western Australia is a reliable, efficient and attractive place to do business
• Increasing business investment
• Fostering Western Australia’s skills and capacity now and into the future
• Driving the energy transition

The Department is guided by the following principles which shape our culture, decision‑making and strategic direction:

• Lead with empathy and integrity: Act with kindness, respect and care for colleagues, stakeholders and communities. Be authentic and transparent, making grounded decisions that balance immediate needs with long‑term priorities.
• Collaborate and connect: Build trust and strong relationships across teams, regions and international offices. Break down silos, share expertise and engage stakeholders constructively to deliver better outcomes together.
• Take ownership and be accountable: Lead at every level by taking initiative, leaning on strengths and empowering others. Define roles, responsibilities and decision pathways clearly, ensuring accountability is visible and consistent.
• Focus on progress and continuous improvement: Prioritise finding practical solutions. Reflect, learn and adapt quickly to changing circumstances, continuously improving processes to enhance efficiency and reduce duplication.
• Stay aligned to purpose and impact: Keep connected to DEED’s bigger picture, enabling Western Australia’s long‑term prosperity. Align actions to strategy, work across government and deliver innovative solutions that create enduring value for the community.

About The Role

Tenure: Fixed Term (18 months) full‑time with the possibility of extension and/or permanency

Science and Innovation, Industry and Corporate Capability builds the State’s capacity through targeted support, fostering innovation and industry capability and ensures effective and efficient administration of DEED’s financial assistance and equity programmes and business support functions.

DEED’s Legal Services division is looking for an applicant with a strong legal background to take on this exciting opportunity. If you have understanding of the legislative process, a history of providing in‑house legal counsel and experience in commercial or contract law then we encourage you to apply.

In this role you will provide high level legal advice and leadership on complex and sensitive legal matters. This includes high level liaison with internal and external key stakeholders, negotiating complex legal matters on behalf of the Department and contributing to the formulation of policies, standards and strategies required by the Department.

Further information about the role and the expected leadership behaviours can be found in the attached Job Description Form. Assessment of leadership behaviours may be included in the recruitment process.

Interested in more information?

For information regarding these positions, you are encouraged to contact General Counsel Stephenie Vahala on 0460 311 796 or [e-mail].

Supporting diversity and inclusion

As an equal opportunity employer, the department is committed to building an inclusive and diverse workplace and we welcome applications from people of all backgrounds. Preference may be given to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people with disability, people of diverse sexualities, and young people.

If you have any communication or access needs and require adjustments to take part in the application process, please contact our Talent Team at [e-mail]. We are committed to providing a fair and supportive recruitment experience for everyone.

Additional Job Information

Applications must be submitted prior to the closing date and time specified in the job advertisement. Late submissions will not be accepted.

Applicants deemed suitable may be considered for appointment to similar roles within the department for up to 12 months following the completion of this recruitment process.

Successful candidates will be required to obtain a National Police Clearance before commencing employment. Some positions may also require an Australian Government Security Clearance.

Closing Date

Your online application must be submitted online prior to the closing date and time - 3:00 PM (AWST) on Monday, 16 November 2026

Attachments

• Applicant Information Pack.pdf
• JDF ‑ Senior Legal Counsel ‑ Legal Services ‑ JTS22119 ‑ October 2026.pdf