Sessional Ombudsman, Life Insurance

Fairness feels good

Make a real impact at AFCA. Where fairness drives every decision. Help us deliver world-class, independent complaints resolution for Australians. As a not-for-profit and progressive financial ombudsman, we’re championing positive change. Achieving our purpose takes progressive thinking, accountability and resilience. At AFCA, our inclusive leadership values every voice. We offer our people flexible work options, thoughtful benefits and opportunities to deepen expertise. Flourish in a diverse, caring culture. Feel the difference of belonging to an organisation intentionally designed to put people first.

Flexible, meaningful work. Expert impact when it matters most.

At AFCA, our purpose is simple: to help Australians achieve fair outcomes when things go wrong with financial services. We're looking to appoint experienced Sessional Ombudsmen, Life Insurance to join our highly regarded decision-making team on a flexible, engagement-based arrangement.

As a Sessional Ombudsman, you'll provide specialist, on-demand expertise as part of a talented panel of senior legal professionals. Engagements can range from a few days to several months, offering you the flexibility to contribute your expertise while maintaining the balance and lifestyle that matter to you.

This opportunity is ideal for accomplished legal professionals who are looking to apply their extensive experience in a role that combines intellectual challenge, community impact and flexibility. Whether you're transitioning from private practice, stepping back from a full-time executive role, or seeking to complement an established portfolio career, you'll have the opportunity to make a genuine difference to consumers and industry alike.

Reporting to Emma Curtis, Lead Ombudsman Insurance, you'll bring significant senior-level experience in the insurance sector, particularly within life insurance and/or general insurance. You may be a highly experienced lawyer, tribunal member, regulator, ombudsman, executive leader or other legally qualified professional with a proven history of sound judgment and decision-making in complex environments.

This is a board-appointed role for a 3 year term, subject to re-appointment. 

What you'll bring

You are a trusted and credible leader who:

• Quickly synthesises complex information and identifies the issues that matter most.
• Exercises sound judgment and delivers balanced, well-reasoned decisions.
• Communicates with clarity, confidence and empathy across a broad range of stakeholders.
• Works effectively both independently and collaboratively.
• Navigates sensitive and contentious matters with professionalism and resilience.
• Maintains impartiality while dealing with competing perspectives and challenging situations.

Most importantly, you are motivated by the opportunity to contribute to a fair, accessible and independent dispute resolution service that delivers meaningful outcomes for the community.

To be successful, you'll have:

• Legal qualifications and substantial senior-level legal experience.
• Significant expertise within insurance, particularly life insurance and/or general insurance.
• A demonstrated track record of achievement within a law firm, tribunal, external dispute resolution scheme, regulatory agency, insurer or related organisation.
• Exceptional analytical, decision-making and stakeholder management skills.
• The ability to maintain independence and impartiality in all matters.

Please note that your business or professional dealings within the past three years must not give rise to any reasonable perception of bias in favour of consumers or financial firms.

To apply

If you’re passionate about fairness and believe your skills align with this role, we encourage you to apply even if you don’t meet every single criterion.

We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, cultures, abilities, sexual orientations, and gender identities. If you require any accessibility support during the recruitment process, please reach out to our team at [email protected].

We believe fairness starts with people. That’s why we don’t use AI or automated tools to screen candidates. As a result, our processes may take a little longer, and we thank you for your patience.

About AFCA

The Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA) was established in 2018 as a private not-for-profit ombudsman service providing free, fair and independent help with financial disputes. The original team has grown to over 1600 dedicated professionals. Since 2018, AFCA has received more than 634,000 complaints, helping to secure $2.1 billion in compensation for consumers. 

AFCA is a 2026 Circle Back Initiative Employer - we are committed to responding to every applicant.