Legal Counsel

Australian Financial Complaints Authority – Melbourne VIC

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 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.

Job Description This is a unique opportunity to demonstrate your technical legal skills as a

Legal Counsel

specialising in Insurance, Superannuation and/or I&A. In this role you will be a part of AFCA’s inhouse Legal team and will provide the Ombudsman and AFCA case management staff with specialist legal expertise and complaint resolution advice. You will also ensure that our legal obligations are met, and legal risks managed, to ensure the protection of our interests and reputation.

Key accountabilities

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

Manage and resolve litigation risk with a focus on managing reputational risk

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

Proactively monitor and communicate 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 Operational Guidelines

Engage with stakeholders to ensure their legal needs are being met

Other duties as appropriate

This is initially a 2-year contract role.

Qualifications To be successful in this role, you will come equipped with:

Significant legal experience and qualifications in Insurance, Superannuation and/or I&A law, with a minimum of 5years PQE

Experience in and knowledge of:

The financial firm-customer relationship

Relevant codes of practice

Corporate and financial services regulation (ASIC Act, Corporations Act, ASIC Regulatory Guides)

Litigation experience is highly desirable

The ability to analyse, understand and explain complex legal documents and the ability to draft detailed, logical and well explained comprehensive advice

The ability to make accountable and logical decisions, including demonstrated skills in analysing and investigating issues and developing and negotiating solutions

Strong interpersonal and excellent oral and written communication skills

Self‑motivated, resourceful with the ability to work both autonomously and as part of a team

Additional Information Why AFCA

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 *******@afca.org.au.

AFCA is a 2025 Circle Back Initiative Employer - we are committed to responding to every applicant.

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