Director Legal and Freedom of Information

Director Legal and Freedom of Information

Senior Administrative Officer 2 (Remuneration Package Range $148,302 - $161,638)
(including salary $173,421 - $188,860)

Senior Professional Officer 2 (Remuneration Package Range $150,554 - $167,990)
(including salary $128,551 - $143,611)

Full time, ongoing vacancy

Darwin, Northern Territory

Selection will be made at the SAO2 or SP2 level depending on the experience/qualifications of the successful applicant.

Provide strategic leadership to a large Legal Services team.

Oversee legal and information release functions.

Analyse and interpret legislation related to social housing and governance.

Utilize your skills as a legal practitioner with a sound understanding of social housing systems, governance, and information release functions.

The Department of Housing, Local Government and Community Development is committed to building stronger, more connected communities across the Northern Territory. Through innovative housing solutions, support for effective local governance, and initiatives that promote social and economic resilience, the Agency aims to enhance wellbeing and opportunities for all Territorians. They pride themselves on addressing real Territory challenges and delivering meaningful outcomes to restore the Territory lifestyle by fostering a thriving and inclusive community.

As the Director, Legal and Freedom of Information, your primary objective is to lead a high-performing Legal Services team responsible for the Agency’s legal, information release functions, supporting law reform, and providing expert legal and FOI advice.

Your key duties include providing high-level leadership, delivering high-quality advice on complex and sensitive legal matters, managing FOI requests, and supporting legislative reform priorities. You will manage complex outsourced legal matters, including preparing Cabinet, CEO, and ministerial briefings and legal briefs. Ensuring legal risks are identified and addressed, and enhancing the capability of the Agency and service providers to improve the client experience and the lives of Territorians are also essential.

To succeed in this role, you must be eligible to practice as a legal practitioner with admission to the Supreme Court of the Northern Territory, the High Court of Australia, or the Supreme Court of a State or Territory of Australia. Proven leadership, exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, and the ability to analyze and interpret legislation are essential.

Experience in commercial, tenancy, and property law will be highly regarded.

If you reside outside the Territory, consider relocating to Darwin. Enjoy a balanced lifestyle with opportunities to explore stunning landscapes, waterfalls, tropical sunsets, and Darwin’s rich multicultural society. Support for relocation expenses may be available for successful applicants.

Applications should include a one-page summary, resume/CV, and copies of relevant qualifications.

Salary, number of applicants, skills match, and any relevant details prompting reporting of fraudulent/misleading/discriminatory practices should be included as applicable.