Senior Associate / Special Counsel – Public Sector Litigation

About the role

Hall & Wilcox is seeking a Senior Associate or Special Counsel to join its Dispute Resolution – Public Law team in Canberra. You will work alongside a highly regarded partner, providing legal advice and representation to Commonwealth government clients on a range of public law matters.

Key responsibilities

• Manage and conduct public law litigation and administrative law matters for Commonwealth government clients.
• Advise on privacy, data protection, and freedom of information issues, including privacy impact assessments.
• Handle merits and judicial review proceedings across sectors such as agriculture, environment, health, aged care, citizenship, and code of conduct compliance.
• Collaborate with the national Dispute Resolution team of approximately 130 professionals.

Required profile

• Minimum of 5 years post‑admission experience in public sector or Commonwealth government matters.
• Strong legal drafting, analytical, and communication skills with meticulous attention to detail.
• Ability to work autonomously and as part of a supportive, collaborative team.
• Capacity to manage a busy workload and competing deadlines.

Required skills

• Public law litigation and administrative law expertise.
• Knowledge of privacy legislation and freedom of information processes.

What we offer

• Competitive remuneration and clear career progression pathways.
• Flexible working arrangements, including hybrid and remote options.
• Up to $500 reimbursement for home‑office equipment.
• Generous parental leave (up to 26 weeks paid) and flexible leave options.
• Daily breakfast, office drinks, social events, and a commitment to health, wellbeing, pro bono work, and diversity and inclusion.