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Our role

The state and territory member Societies provide services to animals in need through their shelters and inspectorates. In the national office, RSPCA Australia works to influence animal welfare policy, practice and legislation across the country

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Animal welfare science

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Key issues

The RSPCA advocates for the welfare of animals across a number of industries, issues and platforms. Help from our supporters is important to progress change. Working together is key.

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Priority issue

On 1 July 2024, the Federal Government…

Live sheep export

News

Here you'll find the latest news relating to the RSPCA's vital work, press releases on national events, education on animal welfare issues, animal welfare science updates and our very own podcast covering a range of current topics.

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RSPCA welcomes inclusion of mandatory video surveillance in updated Animal Welfare Certification System

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Whether you're an individual or a business, there are multiple ways you can support the RSPCA

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An animal in the RSPCA care being cared for by an RSPCA vet

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Learn

The RSPCA aims to make evidence-based research accessible to the community, so that they can have confidence in the choices made when it comes to animal welfare.

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RSPCA Animal Welfare Seminar 2025

Animal ethics and animal welfare…

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About

The RSPCA is an independent, community-based charity providing animal care and protection services across the country.

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Compiled on a national basis by RSPCA…

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Adopt

By choosing adoption, you’ll not only have the chance to make a friend for life, but you’ll be giving an animal a second chance and helping support the RSPCA.

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Adopting a dog or puppy

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Adopting a cat or kitten

Safe and happy cats

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Join our team

Legal Counsel | 3-5 years

Join RSPCA Australia in our mission to improve the lives of animals across the country. We're seeking a mid-senior level lawyer with commercial contractual experience to support RSPCA Australia.

Location: Canberra, ACT (hybrid) (or remote for the right candidate)
26-38 hours per week, negotiable
Salary: $144k-plus superannuation, pro-rata

About the Role

The Legal Counsel will provide legal support across the organisation, with a particular focus on commercial contracting and legal advice and support for the RSPCA Approved Farming Scheme and the National Partnerships and Procurement teams, with guidance from the General Counsel. The Legal Counsel will provide advice on the Scheme’s Operating Rules and contracting program, including with farm producers, retail licensees (such as major supermarkets and restaurant chains) and the science and policy team on welfare standard changes. Also advising on a variety of contracts that benefit the Federation, including in the area of sponsorship, Trade Mark licensing, national supply arrangements and partnerships.

This role is broader than simply a contract drafting role, you will have the opportunity to combine commercial contracting law with gaining regulatory experience and an operational and legal understanding of an entire supply chain (from farm to consumer) within an ethical framework.   

Key Responsibilities

Contract drafting, negotiation, and renewal of all producer and licensing agreements in the RSPCA Approved Farming Scheme alongside the General Manager and General Counsel.

Assisting negotiations and drafting for federation-wide general procurement and sponsorship RFP/RFI and contracts with the National Partnerships and Procurement team.

Contract interpretation and legal advice on contract management, including payment obligations, performance obligations and contractual disputes. 

Legal support for Trademark certification, including advising on legal and regulatory requirements and domain name infringements.

Liaising with federation member societies regarding contractual matters.

About You

We’re looking for someone who is:

Mid-senior level lawyer with commercial contractual experience.
Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with internal and external stakeholders.
Proficiency in legal research tools and contract management systems.
If you are shortlisted for an interview, we will ask you for referees who are best able to describe you at work.

Why Join Us?

Join a values-driven team that’s supportive, purpose-led and passionate.
Highly flexible work options and beneficial salary packaging,

Ready to make a difference?

Apply now with your CV and a cover letter outlining why you're the right fit for the role. Applications must be submitted to [email protected]
If you have any specific questions, please send an email to Emma Zipper at [email protected]
For further information regarding RSPCA Australia, go to www.rspca.org.au

Applications close Sunday, 17 August 2025

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Legal Counsel | 3-5 years

About the Role

Key Responsibilities

About You

Why Join Us?

Ready to make a difference?

Stay informed on big issues and how you can help improve animal welfare across Australia.