Office of General Counsel

The OGC is responsible for the provision of legal services to the University, including providing legal advice to the Senate, the Chancellor, the Vice-Chancellor, senior executives and other officers of the University and co-ordinating any external legal services provided to the University.

The purpose of the OGC is to provide high quality legal services, and to actively contribute to the University achieving its "1:5:40" strategic goals. Advice given by the OGC must reflect a real understanding of the policies and values of the University, and of the dynamics of the higher education sector.

The OGC is committed to effectively responding to the legal needs of University clients and to responding to requests for advice in a timely and cost effective manner.

The OGC has a proactive role in identifying and reducing legal risk, and in promoting a culture of "doing the right thing" throughout the University. It also keeps the University community informed of relevant legal developments and is involved in the formation and review of University statutes, policies and procedures.

The OGC is responsible for its operating budget, and for the legal expense overheads account of the University. General Counsel reports to the Vice-Chancellor.

Lawyers in the OGC:

* provide oral and written legal advice in relation to University matters, including in relation to the University's compliance with statutory and regulatory requirements;

* negotiate, draft and review legal documents for the purpose of enhancing and protecting the University's interests;

* use alternative dispute resolution methods to resolve or facilitate the resolution of disputes and potential disputes between the University and third parties;

* identify and advise the University in relation to new or amended legislation and case law which may impact on University policies and practices; and

* conduct or participate in presentations on relevant legal topics throughout the University.

Lawyers in the OGC are expected to serve the best interests of the University but also to comply with the standards of conduct required of members of the legal profession.

The OGC does not provide legal services of a personal nature to staff or students. The Students' Representative Council provides a free legal service (through Redfern Legal Centre) for undergraduate students and the Sydney University Postgraduate Representative Association may be able to arrange legal assistance for postgraduate students.