Good Neighbours is an international development NGO Founded in 1991 for the purpose of reducing poverty in the most disadvantaged communities. Good Neighbours implements projects to protect child rights, strengthen global partnerships, and advocate for the rights of the most vulnerable across the globe. The Good Neighbours Australia office launched in 2018 under the auspices of the Good Neighbours’ partnership (GPC). Good Neighbours Australia currently implements domestic and overseas programs. We are registered with ACNC (Australian Charities and Not-for-Profits Commission) and have Deductible Gift Recipient (DGR) Status. GNAU values diversity, employing people from a variety of backgrounds. GNAU is committed to safeguarding and in maintaining a safe environment for all children participating in our programs.Furthermore, GNAU offers continuous supervision and training to its staff and volunteers, ensuring they are well-equipped to support vulnerable children and families.

Position Summary

Good Neighbours Australia (GNAU) is seeking an experienced legal professional to provide pro bono legal support on an as-needed basis. The Pro Bono Legal Advisor will assist the organisation with legal advice, document review, governance matters, and compliance-related queries to support ethical, transparent, and compliant operations. This role is flexible and engagement will occur intermittently throughout the year based on organisational needs.

Key Responsibilities

Provide general legal advice across organisational operations, governance, and compliance matters Review and provide guidance on policies, contracts, agreements, and memoranda of understanding (MOUs) Support interpretation and application of relevant Australian legal and regulatory requirements affecting not-for-profits Provide advice on risk management, liability, and organisational policy development Assist with safeguarding, privacy, and data protection considerations where required Review partnership agreements with international and local stakeholders Support dispute resolution or legal queries as they arise Contribute to strengthening good governance practices within the organisation

Selection Criteria

Qualified legal practitioner admitted to practice in NSW (current or retired practitioners welcome) Experience in charity and not-for-profit law, contract law, compliance, or governance (preferred) Strong understanding of risk management and organisational governance Ability to provide practical, solutions-focused legal advice High level of integrity, professionalism, and confidentiality Ability to respond flexibly within agreed timeframes

Desirable Attributes

Experience with organisations based overseas Familiarity with DFAT or international aid compliance frameworks Understanding of safeguarding obligations in NGO settings Collaborative and values-driven approach

Benefits

Opportunity to support impactful humanitarian and development programs Engagement with a values-based not-for-profit organisation Contribution to strengthening governance and compliance in the aid sector Professional recognition of pro bono service (if required)

OTHER REQUIREMENTS:

National Police Check Working With Children Check Registration with The Law Society of NSW or a state or territory equivalent.

APPLICATION PROCESS

Please apply as soon as possible by emailing your CV and cover letter to [email protected] as applications will be reviewed on an immediate basis.

If you have specific questions about the role please contact at [email protected] using the subject line: Legal advisor.