What has been the number one challenge that has impacted you over the past year?

Privacy law and cyber security are areas of significant focus and concern. Privacy has always been an area of focus for REA, as trust and transparency are critical to the way in which we seek to provide personalised consumer experiences. This means that to meet evolving consumer privacy expectations; REA looks beyond simply complying with legal requirements. The legal team assists REA in remaining alert to and acting consistently with rising consumer expectations and provides advice and guidance to the business about laws, including shifts in privacy laws. It is anticipated that significant changes will be introduced to the Privacy Act in 2023, and members of the legal team will work closely with others in the business, including product and tech teams, to ensure those changes are understood and reflected in REA’s products and practices.

The significant data breaches seen in Australia in 2022, most notably those that affected Optus and Medibank, have highlighted the risk of such violations, and the critical importance of safeguarding against, and preparing to handle, cybersecurity incidents. The legal team has worked with teams across the business to ensure we take prudent steps in this regard and advise the Board and executives of legal and practical considerations.

What would you say are the unique qualities required to be successful as an in-house lawyer in your industry?     

First, it is essential to have a deep understanding of the business and the external environment in which it operates, including business needs and priorities, risks and challenges, and the interplay between different parts of the business.

Secondly, legal team members should be seen as approachable and constructive and perceived to be working hand in hand with the business to achieve commercial outcomes while also having regard for legal and ethical issues. Building solid relationships underpinned by trust and respect is essential to accomplish this. Strong relationships help to ensure that lawyers become involved early and are given the full picture. And having mutual trust and respect enables robust discussions about challenges, which supports achieving the best outcomes for the business, balancing legal, commercial and risk considerations.

Thirdly, excellent communication skills – both verbal and written – are vital. This also extends to the ability to read situations, react appropriately, and pick up on factors beyond those that people might express directly.

Fourthly, a collaborative approach – the ability and willingness to engage with people cooperatively – is essential.

Finally, a good lawyer will also know when to hold the line; sometimes, it is not possible to find a way, legally, to achieve what the business wants. Alternately, taking certain actions might be lawful but inadvisable for other reasons. It is essential to know when to give that advice and to have the courage to do so.

None of these qualities are unique to REA or its industry. However, every organisation is different, so applying these qualities will differ from industry to industry. Part of being a good lawyer is adapting to the environment’s culture, business challenges and personalities.