Senior Legal Officer

About the role

The Department’s Legal Services Unit is looking for a motivated Senior Legal Officer to provide high‑quality legal advice and support to senior departmental officers. This position plays a key role in ensuring compliance with legislation, common law and whole‑of‑government policy across a range of legal matters.

Key responsibilities

• Deliver timely, independent legal advice on complex issues including contracts, commercial law, administrative law, corporate governance, policy, complaints, litigation and property law.
• Prepare and draft complex documents such as ministerial briefings, cabinet submissions, briefing notes, and detailed recommendations.
• Represent and advocate for the Director‑General and the department in coordination, consultation and negotiation with external legal service providers.
• Monitor and report on emerging developments in government legal services.

Required profile

• Strong knowledge of legal services practices and relevant legislation, including RTI, privacy and complaints frameworks.
• Excellent verbal and written communication with the ability to produce high‑quality submissions under tight deadlines.
• Analytical ability to interpret legislation and whole‑of‑government policy.
• Proven capability to build and maintain effective relationships with team members and stakeholders.
• Experience in prioritising work, developing sound solutions and improving legal work practices.

Required skills