Consultant, Workplace Relations
Date: 24 Sept 2026
Location: THORNLEIGH, NSW, AU, 2120
Company: McDonald's Corporation
McDonald’s Australia is the largest quick service restaurant operation in the country. Fondly known as “Macca's”, we have been a household name in Australia for over 50 years, we believe that our customers are the heart and soul of everything we do and make it our mission to make every moment count! As an employer of choice winner time and time again, working with us means taking pride and having fun along the way; while growing and developing your career in a dynamic and supportive environment.
Could you be our next Consultant, Workplace Relations?
Ready to put your workplace relations expertise to work in one of Australia's most recognisable businesses? Keen to be the trusted voice that turns complex legislation into advice people can actually use? We're looking for a Consultant, Workplace Relations to join our team. In this role you'll be a subject matter expert in workplace relations, people compliance and people practices, partnering with the business to diagnose risks and opportunities and implement practical, sustainable solutions. You'll play a key advisory role — balancing operational realities with legal and compliance requirements, reducing risk and improving long-term people outcomes. Most importantly, you'll simplify the complex, turning legal and policy obligations into clear, practical guidance our restaurants can act on with confidence.
What you can expect on a day-to-day basis:
- Owning workplace relations data collection, analysis and reporting including case management, union reporting and employee listening, identifying emerging risks and trends with clear recommendations
- Coaching and supporting our Employee Relations Hotline, providing daily advice across the McDonald's system
- Taking end-to-end ownership of complex investigations and serious employee relations matters
- Designing and maintaining practical compliance tools and educational resources for restaurants as legislation and policy evolve
- Advising Workplace Relations leadership on complex matters, case trends and emerging risks
- Supporting compliance with Awards, employment law and Fair Work reforms, keeping the business ready for legislative change
- Coaching restaurant leaders, licensees and McOpCo leaders to build capability and confidence
- Leading training and stakeholder forums on people compliance, investigations and performance and conduct
- Partnering cross-functionally with Legal, Operations, Safety and Technology
Your keys to success:
- Tertiary qualifications in Human Resources, Law, Business or similar (preferred, not essential)
- Demonstrated experience managing complex employee and workplace relations matters in a fast-paced or operational environment
- Strong working knowledge of Australian employment law and modern awards
- Proven ability to resolve complex problems with a high degree of autonomy and independent judgement
- A proactive, solutions-focused approach and a genuine passion for great service
- Clear and confident written and verbal communication, with well-developed presentation skills
- Organised and methodical, able to manage and prioritise multiple complex matters at onceA positive team contributor who thrives with minimal supervision
- McDonald's restaurant or QSR experience is highly regarded
Relish in the Macca's difference when you join the Golden Arches:
- Competitive Remuneration Package. We offer a total reward package of base salary, health care and a target incentive bonus plan.
- 5 Weeks of Annual Leave. Switch off and recharge or explore your passions outside of work with an additional week of annual leave each calendar year.
- Flexible Work Environment. Our teams have embraced a hybrid working model, balancing working remotely and connecting in the office to support our people and how they best add value.
- Paid Parental Leave. We proudly support growing families with paid parental leave top-up options, helping you take the time you need while maintaining financial stability.
- Birthday & Volunteer Leave. Enjoy a day-off during your birthday month and 3 days annually to volunteer for a registered charity you are passionate about.
- Modern Office with Sustainable Amenities. Newly revamped office located in Thornleigh featuring the latest technology and electric car chargers to support eco-friendly commuting.
- Ongoing Professional Development. We are committed to developing our people by investing in leadership programs and free access to LinkedIn Learning.
- Macca’s Staff Discount & Retail Discounts. Enjoy discounted Macca’s at any restaurant across Australia and access to hundreds of retail discounts.
- Access To Our 24/7 Wellbeing Partner (Sonder) For You & Your Immediate Family. Using the Sonder app, access free and confidential safety, medical and mental health support via chat or phone with accredited professionals.
- A Fun & Vibrant Culture. Immerse yourself in local and Macca’s only events and experiences from day one of working with us.
At Macca’s, our doors are open to everyone, and we live by our Golden Rule: treating everyone with dignity, fairness and respect, always. We’re committed to building a safe, inclusive and welcoming workplace where everyone feels valued and empowered - it’s our people who make us Macca’s.
As an equal opportunity employer, we strongly encourage applications from people of all backgrounds, identities and experiences. If you have a disability, illness or injury and need adjustments during the recruitment process, we’re here to help, just reach out to start the conversation.