Lawyer to Associate, Government

Why Sparke Helmore?

As an independent Australian firm with a long history and a big heart, we have a rich story to tell. Our spirit is built on the power of relationships with our people, clients and communities.

At Sparke Helmore, you’ll be actively involved as part of a diverse, genuine and friendly team. We’ll help you harness your ambition and take your skills to new heights with exposure to outstanding clients and easy access to exceptional leaders and mentors.

Your story is yours to define. We’d like to be part of it and for you to be part of ours.

We have an exciting opportunity for Lawyer or Associate to join our Government Public & Regulatory team in Melbourne working with Katherine Whittemore and Adam Cunynghame.

About the team and the work

• You will be acting for a range of Commonwealth clients in one of the largest and most highly regarded Government teams in the country.

• This is a challenging role where you will have the opportunity to advise the Commonwealth on a diverse range of administrative and regulatory matters in a fast-paced environment.

• You will have the opportunity to be involved in regular advocacy work in Federal Courts, the Administrative Review Tribunal, Victorian State Courts and the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal.

• The team assist with some of the highest profile, sensitive and strategic matters in the country, and working with leading experts in the field.

• It is the team's culture to develop the practice of individual lawyers according to their personal aspirations and interests.

What the market says

• Finalist: Lawyers Weekly Australian Law Awards – Government Team of the Year, 2025.

• Recognised: Best Law Firms 2027 ranked by Best Lawyers – National Tier 1 Ranking for Government Practice.

• Ranked in Chambers Asia-Pacific.

• Partners, Lawyers and teams recognised in Doyle’s and in Best Lawyers.

• The Australasian Lawyer 5-Star Employer of Choice, 2023, 2024 & 2025.

About you

• At least 12 months experience working in a well-regarded litigation practice, ideally in administrative / public law with merits and judicial review exposure.

• The successful candidate will have a solid grounding and demonstrated interest in administrative law.

• Ideally you will have advocacy experience in the Administrative Review Tribunal, Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal, Federal Courts and/or the Victorian Courts, however candidates who have a keen interest in developing their skills in this area will be considered.

What Sparke Helmore can offer you

Our culture is one which values and celebrates diversity to better represent the communities in which we live and work. We encourage people from all backgrounds to join us - and bring their whole selves to work.

We recognise people value things differently. That's why our comprehensive benefits program is wide ranging so that everyone can find something that appeals to them. We're sure you will find something to love about what Sparke Helmore has to offer.

To find out more about what is on offer at Sparke Helmore please visit our website: Join us

We believe the best stories are shared

Background Screening: Successful applications will be subject to pre-employment and in some circumstances, ongoing background checks which include a criminal history check.

For further information regarding this opportunity please contact Anthony Demarco on +61 2 9373 1401.