Senior Legal Counsel - Commercial / Construction

The Company

Our client is a leading infrastructure owner and operator with a significant footprint across Northern Australia, responsible for the management and development of major aviation and property assets.

With a strong focus on regional connectivity, economic growth, and sustainable development, the organisation plays a critical role in supporting tourism, trade, and community outcomes across Far North Queensland.

Recognised for its long-term vision and collaborative approach, the business continues to invest in aviation infrastructure, commercial developments, and precinct activation. With a diverse portfolio spanning aeronautical, property, and infrastructure projects, the organisation is shaping the future of airport-led development in the region.

The Role

An opportunity has arisen for an experienced Senior Legal Counsel to join a high-performing in-house legal function, based in Cairns.

In this front-end focused role, you will support a broad range of airport and infrastructure projects across their full lifecycle—from early-stage planning and procurement through to delivery and operation. You will work closely with commercial, property, and project stakeholders, providing strategic legal advice on complex development and construction matters.

Your day-to-day will include:

• Drafting, reviewing and negotiating major project, construction and commercial agreements (including D&C and consultancy contracts)
• Advising on procurement strategies, tender processes and bid documentation
• Providing commercially focused legal advice across infrastructure, property and operational matters
• Supporting contract management, risk allocation and project structuring
• Assisting with dispute avoidance and resolution strategies
• Partnering with internal stakeholders to deliver successful project and commercial outcomes

This role offers the opportunity to contribute to the ongoing development of a critical regional gateway, while playing a key advisory role within a dynamic and growing organisation.

Interstate candidates are encouraged to apply, with the business open to lawyers relocating from Brisbane, Sydney or Melbourne. A competitive relocation package is available to support a smooth transition to Cairns.

The Candidate

You will be a construction, projects or infrastructure lawyer with approximately 8+ years’ PQE, gained within a top-tier law firm or a leading in-house environment.

You will also bring:

• Strong experience in front-end construction, infrastructure or property development projects
• Solid understanding of construction contracts and procurement models
• Exposure to large-scale infrastructure, aviation, or commercial development projects (highly regarded)
• Strong commercial acumen and the ability to influence stakeholders
• Excellent communication and relationship management skills
• A proactive, pragmatic and solutions-focused mindset

To Apply

If you’re interested in learning more about this opportunity, contact Nathan Aron, Associate Director, on 0419 511 439 for a confidential discussion. Alternatively, send your CV to ***email_hidden***.