Crown Prosecutor

Queensland Government; Townsville City; On-site; AUD 150,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

Queensland Government, Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions in Townsville, seeks two flexible full-time Crown Prosecutors (PO5) from 1 November 2026 to 30 June 2027, with possible extension. You will represent the Crown in superior court trials and complex criminal proceedings, including circuit work across Queensland, while mentoring staff and contributing to professional development.

You will appear as lead counsel, provide authoritative advice on complex criminal law and evidence,

Qualifications

• Must have admission as a legal practitioner in Australia and be eligible to practice.
• Proven track record appearing as lead counsel in criminal matters.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills with diverse stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Appear as lead counsel in superior court trials and other criminal proceedings.
• Provide authoritative legal advice to the Director of Public Prosecutions on complex matters.
• Exercise discretion to initiate, vary, or discontinue serious charges.
• Mentor and support the development of legal officers and staff.
• Contribute to ODPP initiatives to improve practices and processes.
• Address the needs of victims with empathy and professionalism.

Skills

Lead counsel experience

Interpersonal communication

Mentoring and development

Ethical standards

Education

Admission as a Legal Practitioner in Australia

Job description

The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions is seeking two flexible full-time PO5 Crown Prosecutor to join the Townsville team from 1 November 2026 to 30 June 2027 with possibility of extension role. In this role, you’ll represent the Crown in superior court trials and complex criminal proceedings, including circuit work across Queensland. You’ll also mentor and support the professional development of legal and administrative staff, contributing to a collaborative and rewarding environment.

Explore more:

This is an excellent opportunity to take on diverse challenges while advancing your career.

About us

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 the location:

• Live and work in vibrant North Queensland
• Townsville offers an enviable lifestyle and a strong sense of community, making it a compelling place to live and work. With over 300 days of sunshine each year, access to the Great Barrier Reef, and stunning national parks, you'll enjoy a unique mix of city living and outdoor adventure.
• Well-connected: Townsville is just a 2-hour flight from Brisbane and offers modern transport, reliable internet, and strong infrastructure.
• Family-friendly: A range of quality public and private schools, accessible healthcare
  including Townsville University Hospital, and a welcoming community for partners and families

About your opportunity

We're offering two temporary, flexible full-time position from 1 November 2026 to 30 June 2027 with possibility of extension. 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.

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/701907/26