Assistant Parliamentary Counsel (APC 2)

About the role

The Assistant Parliamentary Counsel (APC 2) supports legislative drafting projects, gaining the expertise needed to provide independent drafting services and eventually lead teams. This position combines on‑the‑job training with formal courses to develop a broad range of legislative and leadership skills.

Key responsibilities

• Develop legislative problem‑solving, drafting, interpersonal, supervisory and project‑leadership abilities through practical experience and formal training.
• Assist the Senior Executive Service team leader, progressively taking on independent responsibility for legislative drafting services.
• Organise planning and logistics for legislative projects and maintain effective relationships with drafting team members, instructors, OPC staff and relevant government, parliamentary and public service stakeholders.
• Participate in product development initiatives such as plain‑English drafting, IT development support, office committees, reviews and Legislation Process Course presentations.
• Undertake any other duties relevant to the Office of Parliamentary Counsel as assigned.

Required profile

• Strong learning orientation and potential to progress to APC 3 within 2–3 years.
• Well‑developed analytical skills for legislative drafting.
• Creativity and problem‑solving ability to suggest effective drafting approaches.
• Excellent written communication with attention to grammar, spelling and punctuation; strong oral communication skills to sustain collaborative working relationships.
• Sound judgment and the ability to apply appropriate techniques in decision‑making.
• Good organisational skills, ability to meet deadlines and work effectively in a team environment.
• Experience in drafting legislation or providing legal advice, or equivalent legal knowledge.

Required skills