Careers

• HWLE Lawyers is looking for an experienced Commonwealth Government Security Lead to manage and oversee our security obligations across the firm.
• You will have responsibility for security across Australian Government team in relation to: Governance, Physical security & Personnel security
• Must be an Australian citizen with NV1 AGSVA security clearance (minimum)

About HWLE

HWLE is the largest legal partnership in Australia, with over 270 partners and 1,700 people nationwide. We advise government and commercial clients across all states and territories and are known for our strong culture, flexibility, and high‑quality work.

The role

This role sits within our Australian Government team and can be based in Canberra or Melbourne.

HWLE has important security obligations under the Whole of Australian Government Legal Services Panel and the Defence Industry Security Program (DISP). This role is responsible for ensuring the firm meets all these requirements.

You will have responsibility for security across Australian Government team in relation to:

• Governance
• Physical security
• Personnel security

For Firm-wide integration Information Security, you will closely work with our Head of Cyber and IT operations

Key responsibilities

• Lead and maintain HWLE’s security framework for Commonwealth Government work, while integrating with the Firm's Information Security Framework.
• For DISP, work as a senior Security Officer and support the firm's Chief Security Officer discharge his or her responsibilities
• Ensure compliance with:
• Protective Security Policy Framework (PSPF)
• Information Security Manual (ISM)
• Defence Security Principles Framework (DSPF)
• DISP and other Commonwealth security requirements
• Be the main point of contact for Commonwealth Government clients, Defence and DISP on security matters
• Manage security policies, plans, risk assessments and reporting (including the DISP Annual Security Report) for Australian Government team
• Promote strong security awareness and culture across all offices
• Work closely with:
•  Head of Cyber and IT Operations
• People & Development team
• Commonwealth Government partners
• Firm Security Officers
• Support audits and manage security incidents wile integrating with the Firm's information security processes.

About you

• Australian citizen with NV1 AGSVA security clearance (minimum)
• Strong DISP experience (essential)
• Experience managing Commonwealth Government security compliance
• Able to work at both strategic and operational levels
• Confident influencing stakeholders and embedding security culture
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Experience in a legal or professional services environment is highly regarded

What we offer

• Flexible working arrangements
• Friendly, inclusive and down‑to‑earth culture
• Opportunity to make a real impact at a leading national firm

How to apply

Please submit your CV via the Apply button. Applicants must have full working rights in Australia and a valid practising certificate.

HWLE strongly encourages applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and is committed to inclusion and accessibility.

For a confidential discussion or accessibility requirements, contact
Steve Lalic – slalic@hwle.com.au