RLPA_PrimaryBoxStackedWordmark_Online_Mono

Legal Counsel

Rugby League Players Association


  • Sydney New South Wales Australia
  • Full Time
13 Feb 2026
Applications 0

Description

Reporting to the General Counsel, you will provide legal advice and support across all areas of the RLPA's operations. This is a dynamic and high-impact in-house position that extends beyond traditional legal work, offering exceptional exposure to industrial relations, player matters, commercial operations, governance and regulatory issues within the professional sports environment.

You will play a key role in supporting:

  • Collective bargaining and industrial relations strategy.
  • Player advice and support, including contracts, disputes, integrity and disciplinary matters.
  • Commercial operations, including licensing, partnerships and player IP.
  • Governance and compliance, including company secretarial support and risk management.
  • Internal operational needs, including employment matters, policies, and contracts.

Who we're looking for

We are seeking a lawyer with strong technical capability, sound judgment and the ability to contribute positively to the players’ collective interests and the future of the game.

This role will particularly suit someone who is pragmatic, adaptable and confident engaging with a diverse range of stakeholders in both formal and informal settings - from players and club officials to executives and external partners. We are looking for a person with strong interpersonal skills who can build trusted relationships and develop practical, commercially aware solutions while maintaining a solid legal foundation.

Essential requirements

  • 2-4 years post-qualification experience (PQE)
  • Current Australian practising certificate, or the ability to obtain one promptly
  • Experience in one or more of the following areas will be highly regarded:
    • Employment law and industrial relations
    • Commercial and contracts
    • Dispute resolution and litigation
    • Intellectual property
    • Competition and regulatory

You will also bring:

  • Strong interpersonal and relationship-building skills
  • A practical, solutions-focused mindset
  • Excellent written and verbal communication
  • High levels of integrity, discretion and professionalism
  • Understanding of the interests and needs of NRL and NRLW players and the player association movement generally.
  • An interest and/or experience in rugby league or sport (including exposure in private practice) will be beneficial (but not essential).

Benefits of working at the RLPA

We are committed to supporting our people to do their best work and enjoy a healthy balance between life and career. As part of the RLPA, you will have access to:

  • Workplace flexibility through hybrid working arrangements
  • Access to NRL and NRLW games and industry events
  • Paid parental leave to support families
  • Recharge Days - additional leave days each year to rest and reset
  • Professional development opportunities across sport, IR, governance and commercial work
  • A purpose-driven environment, contributing to meaningful outcomes for players and the game

Attachments

Application Instruction

Please include a cover letter with your resume.

The RLPA is committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace that reflects the players and communities we serve. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, identities and experiences - including women, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, Pasifika peoples, culturally and linguistically diverse candidates, people with disability and LGBTQIA+ community members.

We aim to provide an accessible and supportive recruitment process. Please let us know if you require adjustments at any stage.

Apply for this role
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Improve your chances at getting this job
View all learning