Senior Lawyer – Legal Policy Branch

About the role

The Senior Lawyer will join the General Counsel team within the Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet, providing high‑level, practical legal advice across a broad range of public‑sector matters. Working independently in a fast‑paced environment, the role requires a strategic mindset to anticipate and mitigate legal risk for senior executives and the department as a whole.

Key responsibilities

• Build and maintain trusted relationships across the department and with external agencies.
• Support the General Counsel in managing legal risks and delivering solutions‑focused advice.
• Provide advice on workplace law, including the Fair Work Act 2009, Work Health and Safety Act 2011, and Public Service Act 1999, and assist with workplace investigations and policy drafting.
• Advise on public and administrative law matters such as Freedom of Information requests, privacy, statutory decision‑making and appointments.
• Ensure departmental compliance with the Legal Services Directions 2025.

Required profile

• Law degree from an Australian university or equivalent qualification.
• Admission as a legal practitioner in Australia (or eligibility for admission) and ability to hold a practising certificate with the ACT Law Society.
• At least five years post‑admission legal experience, preferably in government or private practice.
• Strong analytical and statutory interpretation skills with the ability to deliver clear, practical advice under tight timeframes.
• Proven stakeholder engagement and communication abilities, especially with senior executives.

Required skills