Crown Prosecutor

Department of Justice, Queensland; Gold Coast City; On-site; AUD 110,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

The Department of Justice, Queensland – Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) invites applications for a Crown Prosecutor in Southport. You will appear as lead counsel in criminal proceedings, provide high‑level legal advice to the Director, and exercise independent discretion on serious charges.

You will mentor staff and contribute to ODPP initiatives while addressing victims’ needs with professionalism.

Qualifications

• Admission as a Legal Practitioner in Australia with date of admission.
• Proven experience appearing as lead counsel in criminal matters in superior courts.
• Ability to liaise with judges, counsel, police, witnesses and victims with professionalism.
• Commitment to ethical standards and ongoing professional development.

Responsibilities

• Appear as lead counsel in criminal proceedings, including superior court trials.
• Provide authoritative advice to the Director of Public Prosecutions on complex criminal matters.
• Initiate, vary or discontinue serious criminal charges with independent discretion.
• Communicate persuasively with judges, defence counsel, solicitors, police and court staff.
• Mentor, supervise and inspire legal officers and support staff.
• Contribute to ODPP initiatives to improve practices and processes.
• Address the needs of victims of crime with empathy and professionalism.

Skills

Lead counsel

Criminal proceedings

Stakeholder liaison

Mentoring staff

Education

Admission as a Legal Practitioner in Australia

Job description

Department of Justice, Queensland – Southport QLD

The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) is a vital part of Queensland's justice system, representing the State in prosecuting criminal matters across courts such as the High Court of Australia, Supreme Court, District Court, and more. Our work addresses complex and sensitive legal matters, ensuring justice is upheld with professionalism and integrity.

About your opportunity

Step into a challenging and rewarding role with the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, where you'll play a critical part in delivering justice for Queensland.

This is a permanent opportunity in Southport. As a Crown Prosecutor, you will:

• Appear as lead counsel in a variety of criminal proceedings, including superior court trials.
• Provide authoritative advice to the Director of Public Prosecutions on complex matters of criminal law and evidence.
• Exercise independent discretion to initiate, vary, or discontinue serious criminal charges.
• Communicate persuasively with a wide range of stakeholders, including judges, defence counsel, solicitors, police officers, witnesses, victims of crime, and court officials.
• Mentor, supervise, and inspire the professional development of legal officers and support staff.
• Contribute to initiatives aimed at improving ODPP practices and processes.
• Address the needs of victims of crime with empathy and professionalism.

What we're looking for

We're seeking a driven and experienced legal professional who embodies the following qualities:

• Demonstrates expertise in appearing as lead counsel in superior court trials and other criminal proceedings, ensuring high quality outcomes.
• Possesses strong interpersonal and communication skills to effectively liaise, consult, and negotiate with diverse stakeholders.
• Inspires and supports the professional growth of legal officers and support staff while addressing the needs of victims of crime with care and sensitivity.
• Maintains a high level of professional competence and adheres to the highest ethical standards.

Mandatory requirements:

Admission as a Legal Practitioner in a State or Territory of Australia (please provide your admission date).

This is more than a role; it's your opportunity to engage with some of the state's most pressing legal matters while making a genuine difference in the community. Think you're ready for the challenge?

Applications to remain current for 12 months.

Job Ad Reference: QLD/701237/26

Closing Date: Tuesday, 29th September 2026