Associate – Environment & Planning (Sydney)

Join our growing Environment and Planning (E&P) team in Sydney. As part of our Real Estate and Development Group, you'll work on major projects across Australia, advising clients on environmental and planning approvals, transactions, and disputes.

As an Associate, you will:

• Provide strategic planning and environmental approval advice for projects across sectors such as residential, retail, commercial, industrial, logistics, aged care, mining, transport, energy, and renewables.
• Appear in the Land and Environment Court in appeals, land acquisition proceedings, and prosecutions.
• Advise on contaminated land issues and environmental licensing.
• Advise on planning and associated regulatory approvals.
• Advise on biodiversity conservation, heritage, and environmental protection legislation.
• Negotiate voluntary planning agreements at state and local government levels.

We offer a collaborative team environment with exposure to a variety of partners and work. We support flexible working arrangements (typically 60% office / 40% home) and are open to other flexible options.

This is a permanent, full-time opportunity.

About you:

• Experience in an Environment & Planning team, ideally at a top-tier or boutique firm.
• Some Land and Environment Court litigation experience.
• Strong client relationship and matter management skills.
• Interest in business development (e.g., pitch documents, articles, events).
• Desire to grow as a lawyer and leader.
• Strong team ethic and ability to build professional networks.

Benefits:

• Competitive market remuneration and incentive plan.
• Employee referral program and retail discounts.
• Health and wellbeing: subsidised gym, annual flu shots, skin checks, in-house snacks and meals, social activities, EAP, and coaching.
• Flexible work arrangements and home-office equipment support.
• Additional purchased leave, 26 weeks paid parental leave (no minimum service), and executive coaching.
• International secondment opportunities through our global alliance.
• Recognition programs and community involvement (reconciliation, environment, social justice, workplace giving, volunteering).

How to apply: Click "apply now" to submit your application. For a confidential discussion, please contact our talent acquisition team (details available via the listing). We celebrate diversity and welcome applicants from all backgrounds. If you require adjustments during the application process, please let us know.

• Experience working in an Environment & Planning team, ideally at a well-regarded top-tier, international, Australian, or boutique firm.
• Some experience in Land and Environment Court litigation.
• Willingness to build client understanding and maintain effective relationships.
• Ability to manage matters effectively.
• Interest in business development activities (pitch documents, firm-wide pursuits, article writing, events, seminars).
• Desire and ability to grow as both an Environment & Planning Lawyer and leader.
• Strong team ethic.
• Ability to establish a professional profile and internal networks.