Principal Lawyer – Legal Advice Team

About the role

The Office of the Fair Work Ombudsman is seeking a Principal Lawyer to co‑lead its Legal Advice Team in Melbourne, Sydney or Brisbane. The role can be full‑time or part‑time and combines office‑based work with flexible home‑based arrangements.

Key responsibilities

• Lead, mentor and manage a team of lawyers to deliver high‑quality, strategic legal advice on complex workplace relations and related legal matters.
• Provide oral and written advice, review and settle legal advice, educational materials, templates and web content.
• Oversee legal spend, engage external providers and manage the legal advice function.
• Develop strong relationships with internal colleagues and external stakeholders.
• Contribute to the Agency’s strategic goals as part of senior leadership.

Required profile

• Minimum 7 years post‑admission legal experience, including substantial workplace relations work.
• Proven leadership and people‑management capability.
• Strong written and oral communication, risk‑identification and strategic thinking.
• Australian citizenship and ability to obtain or hold a current Australian Government Security Clearance.
• Law degree from an Australian university (or equivalent) and a valid practising certificate.

Required skills

• Expertise in complex workplace relations law and policy.
• Experience in corporate, commercial and public sector legal matters.

What we offer

• Competitive salary with 15.4% superannuation.
• Generous leave and flexible working arrangements.
• Employee Assistance Program (counselling for you and family).
• Extensive training and development opportunities.
• Recognition and rewards initiatives.
• Inclusive workplace accredited as Breastfeeding Friendly and member of diversity networks.