Legal Counsel - Banking and Finance

Overview

Fairness feels good

Make a real impact at AFCA. Where fairness drives every decision. Help us deliver world-class, independent complaints resolution for Australians. As a not-for-profit and progressive financial ombudsman, we’re championing positive change. Achieving our purpose takes progressive thinking, accountability and resilience. At AFCA, our inclusive leadership values every voice. We offer our people flexible work options, thoughtful benefits and opportunities to deepen expertise. Flourish in a diverse, caring culture. Feel the difference of belonging to an organisation intentionally designed to put people first. Company Description

AFCA is a not-for-profit financial ombudsman focused on fairness in decision-making and independent complaints resolution for Australians. We strive to champion positive change through progressive thinking, accountability and resilience.

Job Description

Our Legal Counsel team at AFCA provide high quality legal advice to ensure that our legal obligations are met, and legal risks managed, to ensure the protection of our interests and reputation.

Key accountabilities – Legal Counsel - Banking and Finance

Provide trusted and timely legal advisor support and advice to the Banking & Finance Lead Ombudsmen, Decision Makers and Dispute Resolution Specialists

Managing and resolving litigation risk with a focus on managing reputational risk

Proactively managing legal risk by anticipating issues, identifying opportunities and proposing solutions

Proactively monitoring and communicating changes in laws and regulations impacting upon AFCA’s obligations

Understand and comply with all applicable company policies, procedures, systems, approach and guidance documents, legislation and AFCA Rules and guidelines

Engaging with stakeholders to ensure their legal needs are being met

Other duties as appropriate

Contract

This is initially a 12-month contract.

Qualifications

Tertiary law qualifications and an Australian practising certificate.

Minimum 5 years of post-qualification experience in banking and finance law, with expertise in areas such as scams, e-Payments Code, contract law, lending, banking codes, corporate and financial services regulation, insolvency, privacy, decision-making, estates, and AML/CTF Act.

Strong decision-making, analytical, and negotiation skills.

Excellent interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills.

High attention to detail with strong prioritization and time-management abilities.

Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, customer-focused environment.

Proficiency in Microsoft Office and typing.

Self-motivated, adaptable, and able to work independently or as part of a team.

Quick learner with mature adaptability.

Logical, open-minded, and strong analytical thinker.

Additional Information

BOSS Best Places to Work 2024 – credited for its culture, engagement and flexible working arrangements.

Most Inclusive Workplace 2024 – Australian HR Institute (AHRI) Awards.

Employer of Choice Public Sector and NFP – Australian HR Awards 2023

Bronze AWEI Accreditation 2024 – Recognised for LGBTQ+ workplace inclusion.

Accredited Family Friendly Workplace – Supporting work-life balance and inclusivity.

Hybrid working – Flexible arrangements with state-of-the-art offices designed for collaboration and wellbeing.

Inclusive leave options – Flexible public holidays, 20 weeks paid parental leave, gender affirmation leave, women’s health leave, and paid time off over Christmas.

Financial benefits – Not-for-profit salary packaging to boost take-home pay.

Locations – A team of over 1,200 dedicated professionals based in modern Melbourne and Sydney CBD offices.

To apply If you’re passionate about fairness and believe your skills align with this role, we encourage you to apply—even if you don’t meet every single criterion.

We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, cultures, abilities, sexual orientations, and gender identities. If you require any accessibility support during the recruitment process, please reach out to our team at Careers@afca.org.au.

AFCA is a 2025 Circle Back Initiative Employer

- we are committed to responding to every applicant.

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