About the role

The Senior Legal & Governance Officer plays a key role in supporting effective governance, legal compliance and company secretariat functions across AITSL. Working closely with the General Manager, Legal, Governance and Regulatory Services, you will provide trusted advice and support to the Board, Board Committees, Executive Leadership Team and staff across a broad range of governance, legal, risk and compliance matters.

This is a varied and rewarding role where no two days are the same. You might be preparing Board papers and governance reports, reviewing contracts, advising on compliance obligations, coordinating governance activities or supporting organisational assurance and risk management initiatives.

This position will be offered on an initial 6-month fixed-term contract with an opportunity for extension.

Key responsibilities include:

Supporting Board and Board Committee operations, including agendas, papers, minutes and governance records
Providing practical legal advice across contracts, commercial arrangements, procurement, privacy, intellectual property and employment-related matters
Supporting compliance, risk and governance frameworks and continuous improvement initiatives
Monitoring legislative and regulatory developments and advising on organisational impacts
Assisting with statutory reporting, corporate filings and governance documentation
Building strong relationships with internal stakeholders, Board Directors, auditors, regulators and external advisers
Contributing to a culture of accountability, transparency and continuous improvement

About you

You are an experienced governance and legal professional who enjoys working collaboratively and providing practical, solutions-focused advice. You are comfortable working independently, building trusted relationships and navigating complex issues with sound judgement and professionalism.

You will bring:

Admission as an Australian legal practitioner
Experience in governance, secretariat, legal, compliance or related functions
Experience supporting Boards, Board Committees and senior executives
Strong contract review, drafting and negotiation skills
Knowledge of governance frameworks, regulatory compliance and risk management principles
Excellent written communication skills, including preparation of Board papers, minutes, reports and legal documentation
Strong stakeholder engagement and relationship management skills
A proactive, commercially minded and service-oriented approach
Governance qualifications, Governance Institute membership, and experience within the Commonwealth Government or government-funded organisations, including knowledge of the Public Governance, Performance and Accountability Act and the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission (ACNC), will be highly regarded

Looking for flexibility?

We recognise that talented professionals come from a wide range of backgrounds and career journeys. Whether you're looking to balance work with family commitments, returning to the workforce after a career break, or simply seeking a meaningful part-time opportunity, we'd love to hear from you.

While AITSL’s offices are based in Melbourne, we have a hybrid and remote working policy, with staff located across Australia. This role will require occasional attendance at our Melbourne office.

If you meet most of the criteria but not every requirement, we encourage you to apply.

About AITSL

AITSL is a Commonwealth organisation and not-for-profit based in Melbourne. We are funded by the Australian Government. AITSL was established to promote excellence in the profession of teaching and school leadership. We work with the education community to improve student learning in three main areas of focus:

Initial teacher education: Supporting pre-service teachers to be classroom ready upon graduation
Quality teaching: Helping teachers maximise their impact on student learning
Leadership: Supporting school leaders with the tools, resources and practices they need to succeed

We are governed by an independent Board of Directors who bring diverse expertise and experience to the work of the organisation.

Why join AITSL?

We believe in work that matters and a workplace that supports you to thrive. At AITSL, you'll find purpose in your day-to-day and support to grow your career in a flexible, forward-thinking environment. If you care deeply about education and want to be part of something bigger, you'll feel right at home here.

Here's what you can expect as part of our team:

Competitive remuneration package
Ongoing professional development and career growth pathways
Flexible, hybrid and remote working arrangements
Employee wellbeing initiatives, including access to an Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
Extra annual leave over the Christmas–New Year period
CBD offices in the heart of Melbourne with public transport at the door
A progressive, inclusive culture that values collaboration and balance

How to apply

Please view the full Position Description via the link below for more information about the role:

https://www.aitsl.edu.au/about-aitsl/work-with-us/employment-opportunities

Applications must be submitted via SEEK and include a resume and cover letter addressing the key selection criteria.

Applications close COB 6 July 2026.

No agencies at this time, thank you.

AUSTRALIAN INSTITUTE FOR TEACHING AND SCHOOL LEADERSHIP LIMITED Jobs

Company Overview

Senior Legal & Governance Officer