AddressWotton + Kearney (W+K) has proudly served the insurance and risk sector for over two decades. Established in 2002 with a founding partnership of two individuals, W+K has rapidly evolved to become Australasia’s leading specialist insurance and risk law firm. Our commitment to excellence has been consistently recognised, consistently ranked as a band 1 insurance firm in Legal 500 and acknowledged as one of the fastest-growing law firm in Australia.
The opportunity
Are you looking for an opportunity to align your career in law with your passion for social justice?
We are looking for a Pro Bono Lawyer to join us in either our Sydney, Melbourne or Brisbane locations in our dedicated Pro Bono practice. In this role you will primarily work with partner Leanne Ho who leads our human rights practice, using your skills to make change happen and contribute to a more just society for women and girls, refugees and people seeking asylum, people with a disability, First Nations people and communities, and those hit hardest by climate impacts.
What you'll do
- Undertaking research to support law reform advocacy of community legal centres and other Pro Bono partner organisations.
- Drafting communications such as community legal education material, articles and blog posts to raise awareness of and amplify the advocacy of our Pro Bono partner organisations.
- Coordinating our teams of W+K lawyers and paralegals to undertake the tasks above.
- Managing relationships with our Pro Bono partner organisations
- Championing the work of the human rights practice to encourage lawyers within the firm to become involved in the projects.
- Coordinate our clinic work across our Australian offices.
- Represent our firm during secondments with our partner community legal centres.
- Provide advice and representation across a broad range of Pro Bono matters.
- Support and help supervise university students who join the team as part of our Pro Bono internship program.
We’re keen to see applications from a broad range of people. We’d love to hear about your:
- Admitted lawyer with 1+ years PQE and a passion for social justice.
- Experience of Pro Bono work and/or work in a community legal centre.
- Ability to build strong relationships both internally and externally
- Strong communication skills.
- Strong legal research and writing skills.
- Have excellent administrative skills and a love of organising teams for success.
Our Pro Bono and Responsible Business Program, Community Footprint, was established in January 2012 and is led by W+K Partners Heidi Anderson and Leanne Ho.
Our responsible business initiatives in the community provide another way to contribute to the work of our charity partners, and a better future for our local and global community and the environment.
We have formed long-term partnerships with community legal centres and charities across Australia, New Zealand and beyond, to make sure that our work is targeted to addressing greatest needs and driving positive change in society.
Our key aim is to address inequalities in our communities, with a particular focus on the UN Sustainable Development Goals of Gender Equality, Reduced Inequalities, Climate Action, and Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions.
The Pro Bono team is supported by Pro Bono champions in each Australian office, the broader firm and committed executive leadership.
Why W+K?
At Wotton + Kearney, our core values are not mere words on a wall but principles that guide our everyday actions. We foster a culture of collaboration, respect, and inclusion, ensuring that these values are lived and breathed by each member of our firm.
Culturally, it is important to us that if you are part of the high performing W+K team that you feel supported and valued for your contribution. These are some of the ways we achieve this goal:
- FLEX for all. We care about client outcomes, quality, and business and cultural contributions. If you can make that work by working part-time, working “irregular hours” or working from home – then so can we.
- Our mentoring program offers continuous support and guidance throughout your career. You'll have access to training, conferences, and workshops, keeping you updated on the latest developments in the legal and insurance industries.
- Our culture sets us apart. Collegiate, open, innovative, passionate about everything we do.
- We give back to the community. Join us in CSR activities to support our charity partners, from building houses in Cambodia, participating in fun runs or baking cup cakes, there's a way for everyone to contribute.
- Leaders of the pack. Work with a firm that understands its purpose, has a singular focus on the insurance industry and is excited by the potential for growth in our market!
- Supporting you with generous parental leave entitlements, purchased annual leave, home office allowances, education assistance, Employee Assistance Program and many more.
We encourage applications from First Nations peoples with the opportunity to also be involved in our Reconciliation Action Plan.
How to apply
Please navigate via the “apply now” link to apply. All applicants will be asked to provide a resume and a cover letter.
Applications will close COB AEST 31 May 2024.
We are committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace at Wotton + Kearney. As part of our dedication to accessibility, we strive to support candidates with disabilities throughout the interview process. If you require any accommodations or assistance during the application and interview stages please contact Ellie Guy, Talent Acquisition Business Partner on (02) 9071 1***.
Note to recruitment agencies Please do not send unsolicited resumes to any Wotton + Kearney employee in relation to this role or others. We cannot accept unsolicited resumes or be responsible for fees related to unsolicited candidates.
Additional information
- FLEX for all: program ensuring equitable access to flexible working for all
- Join the best: band 1 insurance firm and fastest growing law firm in Australia
- Progress with purpose: a role where you can really make a meaningful difference
