Prior to joining Australian Industry Group in 2025, Cornelius worked for a national housing association and a global automotive manufacturer, advising businesses on their obligations pertaining to work health and safety, employment law, construction law, contract law, and consumer law.

Cornelius first developed a strong interest in industrial relations and employee relations while working as a workplace adviser for the national housing association, where members sought advice regarding their obligations toward employees, apprentices and contractors in the residential building and construction sector.

He was admitted in the Supreme Court of New South Wales in 2024.

Cornelius holds a Bachelor of Media (Communication and Journalism) from University of New South Wales and a Bachelor of Laws from Deakin University.