ABOUT US:

We are Australia’s leading independent law firm, known for providing exceptional legal services across a wide range of matters, from major transactions and projects to significant disputes.
Our Investigations & Inquiries practice group has extensive experience representing clients facing allegations of bribery and corruption, money laundering, sanctions, violations, integrity issues and regulatory enforcement, and is handling some of the most interesting and cutting-edge matters in the country. We foster a collaborative and supportive culture where our people thrive – both professionally and personally – and work together to solve the most challenging problems for our clients. As we continue to expand, we are currently looking for a talented associate or senior associate with front-end experience in AML/CTF compliance to join our Sydney office. Scams or other financial crime litigation or investigations experience would be a bonus.

WHO WE ARE LOOKING FOR:

• PQE: At least 4 years of post-qualification experience (PQE) in Australia with a focus on AML/CTF advisory work, with experience advising on the AML/CTF Act and Rules or related enforcement by AUSTRAC.
• Specialised Expertise: Prior experience in AML/CTF front-end advisory within the financial services sector will be highly regarded, or experience advising on scams / frauds and associated litigation and complaints.
• Proven Skills: You are a strategic thinker with excellent analytical, drafting, and client management skills. You’re driven to contribute to high-stakes matters and have a passion for complex regulatory issues.

THE ROLE:

This is a unique opportunity to get involved in complex, high-impact regulatory matters at the forefront of Australian financial crime and compliance law.
You’ll work closely with experienced senior lawyers and play an integral part in helping our clients navigate complex investigations, compliance issues, and regulatory inquiries. As part of a growing team, you will be exposed to a wide variety of matters, where your work will directly shape the strategy and outcomes for clients.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Involved in High-Profile Investigations: You will be supporting the team on complex, high-stakes investigations, inquiries and regulatory enforcement relating to bribery, corruption, financial crime, ESG matters and integrity concerns. Your day-to-day tasks will include researching legal issues, reviewing evidence, drafting internal investigation reports, and advising clients on how to navigate regulatory scrutiny.
• Advising on AML/CTF Compliance: You will be advising clients on how to comply with and adapt to the latest anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing (AML/CTF) reforms. This includes guiding clients through the changes aimed at simplifying the current regime and extending obligations to additional services provided by high-risk ‘gatekeeper’ professions. You will assist clients in drafting and updating AML/CTF programs, drafting exemption applications, identifying reporting obligations and conducting board or personnel compliance training.
• Advising on the Scams Prevention Framework: You will be advising clients on compliance matters related to the newly enacted Scams Prevention Framework, focusing on the obligations for regulated entities to combat scams. This includes guiding clients through the implementation of governance arrangements, internal dispute resolution processes, and the escalation of complaints to an external dispute resolution scheme.
• Advising on anti-bribery and corruption matters: You will be advising clients on anti-bribery and corruption matters and investigations, and associated compliance matters. A key aspect of your work will involve guiding clients on the new corporate offence of failing to prevent foreign bribery. You will also assist clients in implementing appropriate procedures to prevent bribery.