Our Government &Commercial Law team is growing, and we are seeking a talented and dedicated Associate or Senior Associate (3+ years’ PQE) to join.
About Us
Mills Oakley is a leading national law firm with a proud history spanning over 160 years. In that time, we’ve grown into a Top 5 Australian law firm by size while remaining true to our shared vision of exceptional client service with a friendly and collaborative ethos. Mutual trust and respect are at the heart of everything we do.
The Role
Our Government and Commercial Law team is growing, and we are seeking a talented and dedicated Associate or Senior Associate (3+ years’ PQE) to join on a full-time basis. This position will be based in Sydney and work within the Government team located in Sydney and Canberra.
You will be at the forefront of advising on complex government projects, contracts and commercial issues. This role offers a unique blend of public sector engagement and commercial legal work, with opportunities to contribute to high-impact projects across public sector infrastructure projects, procurement, probity and grant programs.
Your key responsibilities will include:
- Government Commercial Advisory: Provide strategic legal advice on procurement processes, contract negotiation, and compliance with public sector frameworks.
- Infrastructure & Major Projects: Support the legal aspects of infrastructure development and delivery.
- Grant Program Support: Advise on the design, implementation, and administration of grant programs.
- Contract Drafting & Negotiation: Prepare, review, and negotiate a wide range of commercial agreements.
- Probity: Advising as probity advisor to all levels of Government on major projects including advising on probity issues such as complex conflicts of interest and other issues.
- Stakeholder Engagement: Collaborate with government departments to deliver legally sound and commercially viable outcomes.
- Policy & Legislative Input: Contribute to the development and interpretation of policies, guidelines, and legislation relevant to government and commercial operations.
This is a dynamic and intellectually stimulating role suited to a lawyer who thrives in a fast-paced, purpose-driven environment and enjoys working across diverse legal issues.
Who We Are Looking For
You’re a confident and capable legal professional with a strong foundation in government and commercial law, ready to take the next step in your career. You thrive in environments that demand both legal precision and strategic thinking, and you’re passionate about contributing to projects that deliver public value.
We’re looking for someone who brings:
- At least 3 years’ PQE in government, administrative, or commercial law, ideally with exposure to public sector clients or infrastructure projects;
- A solid understanding of commercial contracting, procurement frameworks, and risk management principles;
- Demonstrated experience advising on infrastructure, grant programs, or major commercial initiatives, including contract negotiation and stakeholder engagement;
- Strong communication skills with the ability to translate complex legal concepts into clear, actionable advice;
- A collaborative mindset with the ability to build trusted relationships with clients and colleagues; and
- Strong problem-solving skills, with a keen eye for detail and commitment to excellence.
The successful candidate will ideally have security clearance, otherwise the ability to obtain one will be an important part of this role.
What We Offer
We take a collaborative approach to your learning & development, giving you the personal attention and unique opportunities required to help you realise your full potential. We are committed to your health and well-being and offer a multitude of employee benefits including:
- Flexible working;
- Dress for your day;
- Discounted health insurance;
- Employee Assistance Program;
- Discounts to gyms and studios across Australia;
- Competitive referral bonus; and
- Other amazing perks!
All applications must include a CV and Cover Letter addressed to the Talent Acquisition team and submitted online via our Careers page.
Requirements
