Special Counsel

Special Counsel
Location: Randwick, NSW
Salary: $250,000 TRP
Work Type: Full Time, Permanent

Public Sector People on behalf of Randwick City Council

Drive strategic legal outcomes and guide complex planning decisions that shape the future of one of Sydney’s most progressive coastal councils.

Public Sector People are proud to partner with Randwick City Council to recruit a highly skilled Special Counsel. This pivotal role leads Council’s legal services for planning, development, building and regulatory matters, ensuring decisions are well-founded, transparent and legally robust.

You’ll represent Council in key court proceedings, provide expert legal and strategic advice across planning and development functions, and play a central role in advancing accountability, good governance and sustainable city outcomes.

About the Role

Reporting to the Director, City Planning, you will be responsible for:

• Initiating, conducting and managing litigation on behalf of Council across the Local, Land & Environment, District, Federal, Supreme and High Courts, as well as commissions and tribunals
• Providing authoritative legal advice on planning, development, building and regulatory matters to minimise risk and ensure compliance
• Drafting, reviewing and negotiating complex legal documents, agreements and instruments
• Leading negotiations on strategic planning issues and representing Council at hearings, meetings and public forums
• Monitoring and interpreting new legislation, briefing staff on implications and ensuring alignment with Council objectives
• Driving continuous improvement in legal processes, practices and documentation across Council

• Degree in Law and admission as a Solicitor or Barrister of the Supreme Court of NSW, with an unrestricted NSW practising certificate
• Excellent time management and organisational skills, with the ability to manage competing priorities.
• Extensive litigation experience, particularly within the Land & Environment Court
• Strong communication, advocacy and negotiation skills, with the ability to build trust and achieve outcomes in complex or contested matters
• Proven analytical and conceptual capability, with the ability to provide clear, evidence-based legal advice
• Sound understanding of local government, planning, development and regulatory frameworks

• Access to professional development, leadership programs and mentoring opportunities.
• Opportunities to contribute to sustainable urban planning outcomes that shape Randwick’s future.
• Reward & Recognition programs celebrating high performance and community impact.
• Enjoy genuine autonomy and trust in your craft, supported by a forward-thinking leadership team that values innovation, collaboration and continuous improvement.