About

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. This team is growing, and we invite you to be part of our story. We have an opportunity for an Associate and a Senior Associate to join our Workplace team in Newcastle working with partners Catherine Wilkinson, Emma Gruschka and Seamus Burke. About the team and the work Join a highly regarded, inclusive team known for resolving complex workplace matters across diverse sectors including mining, transport, financial services, insurance, health care, and all levels of government. Advise and represent employers on workplace issues including dismissals, discrimination, bullying, harassment, and general protections claims, with valued experience in workplace safety; regularly appear before courts and tribunals and provide guidance on internal and external investigations. Engage with other practice groups to deliver cohesive, strategic outcomes and benefit from exceptional client relationships, including opportunities to work onsite with clients through regular secondments, enhancing your skills and industry exposure. We collaborate nationally and encourage applicants from the Hunter region and beyond to apply. Our technology and way of working lets us do this. Market recognition Winner—Occupational Health and Safety Firm of the Year, AFR’s Best Lawyers, 2024 Listed – Best Lawyers in Australia (2025) for Labour and Employment Law Stand Out Winner – 5-Star Employer of Choice (Employee Experience and Wellbeing), 2025 Lawyers Weekly – Top 25 Attraction Firm, 2025 (Ranked 16th) Recommended - Doyle’s Guide 2025, Leading Employment Lawyers, NSW Recommended - Doyle's Guide 2025, Leading Workplace Health & Safety Lawyers, NSW About you We have multiple roles on offer and are ideally looking for lawyers with 2-6 years’ experience with a strong understanding of workplace law. Familiarity with the Work Health and Safety Act is desirable. Proven experience in managing matters end-to-end, including handling a variety of files for employers—such as disciplinary issues, unfair dismissal claims, and responding to safety incidents. If you're seeking a flexible working environment or part-time hours, we encourage you to apply. We’re committed to supporting work-life balance and will do our best to accommodate your needs. 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 Nikki Costelloe on +61 2 4924 7307. Welcome The best stories are those that are shared. We are looking for talented people who want to be a part of our story. Explore our current opportunities, apply to the ones you are interested in exploring and keep track of your progress through the recruitment process. We look forward to learning more about you.