Special Counsel

A leading private client and property practice is seeking an experienced property lawyer, ideally at Special Counsel level, to join a highly regarded development and transactions team. The firm is looking to strategically grow the group by bringing on a senior practitioner who can manage files autonomously, navigate complex property matters, and provide leadership on high‑value transactions. This is a permanent role offering the opportunity to work on sophisticated development projects, major acquisitions and disposals, and a variety of high‑end property matters for an elite client base. The Role You will step into a broad, complex, high‑volume property development and transactional practice. The work is continuous, sophisticated and varied, with a strong pipeline across major projects, private client matters and high‑value acquisitions and sales. This is an autonomous role with the support of a strong senior leadership group, where you will take carriage of substantial matters and supervise junior lawyers as needed. Work Mix Includes Retail and commercial sales and acquisitions Acquisition of development sites for large‑scale residential and mixed‑use projects Subdivisions and complex Land Registry dealings Off‑the‑plan matters and settlement management Complex residential and commercial conveyancing (including company share and stratum) Joint ventures, development agreements and project structuring Private lending, structured finance and security documents Property taxation issues including GST, stamp duty and land tax Leasing across retail, commercial and industrial assets You will also be exposed to significant, high‑profile transactions involving major redevelopment precincts, shopping centres, commercial towers, industrial assets and large residential projects. Clients The client base includes leading private developers, sophisticated investors, substantial family groups and owners of high‑value commercial and retail assets. Expect to work across shopping centres, commercial office buildings, industrial landholdings and complex development sites. Who This Suits This role is ideal for a senior practitioner who can run matters independently and contribute at a strategic level. You will be a fit if you are: Operating at Special Counsel level (or a very strong Senior Associate ready for the step‑up) Technically strong across property development and transactional work Confident supervising, delegating and mentoring where required Seeking a long‑term home, whether as a career Special Counsel or with a pathway to partnership The Team & Culture This team is known for its technical excellence, steady workflow and strong reputation in the property space, with a recent industry award recognising its impact. The team includes multiple senior lawyers, a robust junior cohort, and a highly experienced conveyancing group. Mentorship is exceptional and senior lawyers have access to genuine support while still retaining full autonomy. The culture is a major drawcard: vibrant, collaborative, family friendly and social. The office is not open‑plan; lawyers have their own spacious offices in a beautifully designed space complete with generous communal areas and a relaxed, modern feel, surrounded by restaurants, cafés and shopping districts. Flexibility is a given, with most lawyers working 3–4 days in the office depending on seniority. Additional Benefits Modern, beautifully designed offices Flexible working arrangements A diverse, energetic, high‑performing team Senior and highly capable support staff A genuinely warm, inclusive culture with strong social engagement Easy access to parking and public transport This is a standout opportunity for a Special Counsel level property lawyer who wants to work on some of Melbourne’s most interesting private development matters while enjoying autonomy, flexibility and a truly supportive environment. If you’re ready to elevate your career in a team that values depth, capability and balance, this role is worth exploring. How to Apply To apply for this role, please submit your resume through the APPLY button. Alternatively, you can contact Hollie Vater on  7491 / for a confidential chat. Not quite what you’re looking for? Please touch base, as we have many more opportunities that are not advertised. All communication will be strictly confidential. #J-18808-Ljbffr