About this Role
An outstanding opportunity has arisen for an experienced Planning & Environment lawyer to join a market-leading team in Melbourne, working across premium development, infrastructure, government panel work and complex environmental regulatory matters.
This is a permanent, full-time role within one of Australia’s strongest national Property & Projects groups, offering genuine career progression, flexibility and high-quality work.
This role sits within a well-established and highly regarded Planning & Environment practice led by two specialist Partners, supported by a broader national Property & Projects team of approximately 120 lawyers.
You will work across a diverse client base spanning both the public and private sectors, including:
State government departments and agencies
Local councils
Major property developers
Renewable energy and resources proponents
Circular economy and environmental compliance clients
The practice is known for its sophisticated advisory work, strong litigation pipeline, and involvement in some of Victoria’s most significant planning, transport, housing and environmental projects.
The firm offers a highly attractive employee value proposition, including:
Permanent, full-time position in a leading specialist team
Hybrid and flexible working arrangements
Full WFH IT set-up + reimbursement of up to $500 for additional equipment
Competitive remuneration with reward and recognition programs
Clear career development pathways and learning programs at all levels
Flexible leave options + up to 26 weeks paid parental leave
Free daily breakfast and regular office social events
Genuine commitment to wellbeing, pro bono, community, diversity and inclusion
You will take on a broad and engaging workload, including:
Preparing complex advice under the Planning & Environment Act and Environment Protection Act
Advising on planning approvals, rezonings and project delivery pathways
Appearing as advocate or instructing Counsel in matters before:
VCAT
Planning Panels
Ministerial Advisory Committees
Acting on land acquisition and compensation matters
Advising government authorities on major infrastructure, transport and housing projects
Drafting and negotiating section 173 agreements for developers and government
Supporting broader commercial, construction and property transactions through due diligence and advisory input
Working on EPA compliance, enforcement and prosecution matters across multiple jurisdictions
To be successful in this role, you will ideally bring:
3–7 years’ post-admission experience in Planning & Environment law
Strong drafting, advocacy and client communication skills
Experience appearing at VCAT or Panel hearings and/or instructing Counsel
Sound commercial acumen and ability to manage matters autonomously
A genuine interest in contributing to the growth of a high-performing practice
Government experience (state or local) highly regarded but not essential
A collaborative mindset and strong team orientation
This is a rare chance to join one of Melbourne’s most respected Planning & Environment teams, working on major developments, government panel matters, environmental regulation and high-impact projects shaping the state.
You’ll enjoy real responsibility, excellent mentoring, and the support of a national platform — in a firm recognised for its progressive culture and long-term investment in its people.
If you are a Planning & Environment lawyer looking to step into a high-quality practice with flexibility, career progression and exceptional work, I’d love to speak with you confidentially.