Principal Guardian

About the role

The Principal Guardian leads complex, sensitive decision‑making and advocacy for adults with impaired capacity where the Public Guardian acts as appointed guardian, attorney, or statutory health attorney of last resort. This role ensures that clients' rights, wishes, and preferences remain central to all actions.

Key responsibilities

• Undertake structured decision‑making in complex or conflicted situations, adhering to organisational policies, practice directions, and legislative frameworks.
• Participate in health‑care decision‑making, including work on weekends and public holidays as required.
• Mentor and support a small team of guardianship staff to meet performance standards.
• Maintain accurate, up‑to‑date client documentation, including guardianship reports, decision reports, visit reports, health‑care decisions, and file notes.
• Provide professional advice to the Public Guardian and delegates, especially regarding positive behaviour support and restrictive practices.
• Liaise with internal and external stakeholders such as community groups, government departments, and service agencies.
• Represent the Public Guardian in community education and public speaking engagements.
• Evaluate and interpret behaviour support documents from an evidence‑based, human‑rights perspective.

Required profile

• Tertiary qualifications in law (highly desirable).
• Experience in criminal justice, domestic and family violence, or child protection sectors (highly desirable).
• Possession of a C‑class driver’s licence for travel to regional sites, including overnight stays.
• Ability to work flexibly, including weekends, public holidays, and travel to remote locations.

Required skills