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.
As this team continues to grow, we invite you to be part of our story. We have an opportunity for a Senior Associate or Special Counsel to join our Employment & Safety practice in Newcastle, Canberra or Sydney working with partners Catherine Wilkinson and Emma Gruschka.
About the team and the work
Join a national employment and safety team advising public and private sector clients on complex workplace matters, including safety incidents, investigations, prosecutions, inquests and strategic workplace risk management.
Take the lead on significant litigation and regulatory matters while enjoying genuine autonomy, direct client engagement and the support of recognised specialists across Australia.
Work with clients across government, mining, transport, education, healthcare, insurance and financial services, delivering practical and commercially focused solutions.
Play an important leadership role by mentoring junior lawyers, contributing to team growth and strengthening trusted client relationships.
Enjoy a flexible hybrid working environment, clear career progression opportunities and the chance to build your profile within a growing national practice.
About the team and the work
Listed – Best Lawyers in Australia, Labour and Employment Law, 2027
Listed – Doyle's Guide Leading Workplace Health & Safety Lawyers (NSW), 2026
Recommended – Doyle's Guide Leading Employment Law Firms (Employer Representation, NSW), 2026
Winner – HRD Australia 5-Star Employer of Choice (Employee Experience and Wellbeing), 2025
Ranked – Lawyers Weekly Top 25 Attraction Firms, 2026
About you
An experienced 4+ years lawyer, with a strong background in employment, workplace relations and/or work health and safety law.
Proven ability to independently manage complex matters, including litigation, investigations, prosecutions and regulatory engagements.
A collaborative leader who enjoys mentoring junior lawyers, building client relationships and taking ownership of outcomes.
Seeking high-quality work, flexibility and the opportunity to make a genuine impact within a national practice.
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.
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 Nikki Costelloe on +61 2 4924 7307.
