Make an impact at the University of Wollongong (UOW) — a purpose driven institution ranked in the top 1% of universities globally.
About the Role
Join the University of Wollongong as an Employment Relations Lawyer and play a key role in advising on complex and sensitive workplace matters. Working closely with senior leaders, you'll provide expert employment and industrial relations advice, manage complex case matters, and represent the University in external forums, including the Fair Work Commission and other tribunals where required.
This is a highly visible role offering a unique blend of strategic influence, advocacy, complex case management, and stakeholder engagement. You'll partner with leaders across the organisation to navigate workplace challenges, minimise risk, and deliver practical, legally sound solutions that support both organisational success and a positive employee experience.
About the Team
The Employment & Industrial Relations team sits within the People & Culture Division and is part of the Vice President (Operations) portfolio. The team works in partnership with business leaders, People & Culture colleagues, and specialist functions across the University to provide trusted advice and support on employment and industrial relations matters. Together, we are committed to delivering responsive, people-centred solutions that enable our community to thrive.
What You’ll Bring
We're seeking an experienced Employment Lawyer, Workplace Relations Specialist, or senior Employment Relations professional who can confidently navigate complex workplace issues and build trusted relationships with senior stakeholders.
- Strong expertise in employment law, industrial relations, and the application of the Fair Work Act, enterprise agreements, and relevant legislation.
- Experience managing complex employment matters, including misconduct, performance management, grievances, workplace investigations, organisational change, and dispute resolution.
- Demonstrated advocacy experience before the Fair Work Commission and other tribunals or courts.
- Strong negotiation, mediation, and stakeholder management skills.
- Strong legal research, analytical, and problem-solving capabilities.
- Strong written communication and drafting skills, including experience preparing legal advice, reports, submissions, and employment-related documentation.
The ability to influence, partner, and build credibility with leaders at all levels of an organisation.
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This opportunity would suit an experienced Employment Lawyer, Workplace Relations Specialist, or senior ER/IR professional seeking a role that combines strategic influence, advocacy, complex case management, and meaningful stakeholder engagement within a values-driven organisation.
Why Join UOW
- Competitive salary package including 17% superannuation
- 35-hour full-time work week supporting greater balance and flexibility
- Flexible working arrangements and family-friendly policies
- Generous leave entitlements including additional concession days over the Christmas–New Year period
- Purchased leave options to provide greater flexibility throughout the year
Ongoing professional development and clear career progression opportunities
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Role Details
- Employment type: Permanent/Ongoing
- Level 8/9 | $123,283 - $152,959 + 17% Superannuation
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- Location: Wollongong Campus / Hybrid
- Valid Australian work rights required. Visa sponsorship is not available
How to Apply
Click on the ‘Apply Now’ button at the bottom of the advertisement. You’ll be requested to submit a resume, and cover letter (of no more than 3 pages) summarising your skills and experience as they relate to the selection criteria located in the position description.
For further information about this position, please contact Kylie Stephens on + 61 2 4239 3936.
Closing Date: Sunday 26 July 2026, 11:55pm
Equity, Diversity & Inclusion
The University of Wollongong is committed to fostering an inclusive and equitable workplace where diversity is valued, respected and celebrated. We strive to create a workplace that reflects the communities we serve, removes barriers to participation, and provides equitable opportunities for staff to reach their full potential. We strongly encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people of all gender identities and sexual orientations, people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, people with disability, and those with caring or family responsibilities.
As required by federal legislation, prospective employees are required to declare whether they have been investigated for an allegation of Gender based Violence or determined to have engaged in conduct that constitutes Gender based Violence, during their previous employment, or otherwise in a legal process. Any such declaration will be included in the University’s employment screening processes and will be treated with the strictest confidence and in compliance with all privacy legislation.
