Senior Legal Officer

Job Details; Newcastle; On-site; ZAR 400,000 - 500,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a dynamic team dedicated to in-house excellence within one of the largest Departments in the State. This full-time role offers a chance to leverage your expertise in Local Government and Privacy law while managing complex legal matters that impact the community. With a focus on collaboration and support, you'll provide high-quality legal advice, ensuring alignment with diverse stakeholders. This innovative environment promotes work/life balance and career growth, making it an ideal opportunity for motivated lawyers eager to make a difference in public service.

Benefits

Flexible Work Arrangements

Diverse Assignments

Work/Life Balance Initiatives

Career Support Programs

Inclusive Workplace

Job Sharing Options

Qualifications

• Admitted as a Solicitor or Barrister in NSW.
• Strong analytical and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Deliver solution-focused legal services within tight timeframes.
• Advise government officials and manage risk effectively.

Skills

Local Government Law

Privacy Law

Employment Law

Administrative Law

Statutory Interpretation

Analytical Skills

Stakeholder Engagement

Communication Skills

Education

Solicitor or Barrister Admission

NSW Practising Certificate

Job description

Together we shape thriving communities, public spaces, places, and economies.

• Bring your expertise in Local Government and Privacy law and elevate your legal career managing a broad range of complex, rewarding work.
• Full-time opportunity
• Office location options include Parramatta, Newcastle, Orange, and other established NSW locations.
• Salary ranges from $141,175 to $164,405 (plus super), relative to experience.

What's in it for me

Join our team for a fantastic culture with dynamic collaboration and genuine long-term career support. We offer flexibility in work arrangements, diverse and fulfilling assignments, and prioritize work/life balance and wellbeing through initiatives like flex leave and support programs. We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone feels welcome, respected, and empowered to succeed.

The role

In this role, you'll be at the forefront of generalist in-house law within one of the largest Departments in the State. You will handle complex and sensitive matters, delivering solution-focused legal services within tight timeframes. Your expertise will be crucial in advising government officials, managing risk, and supporting departmental initiatives.

You'll be part of a new team dedicated to in-house excellence. This is an exciting opportunity for a lawyer eager to leverage their experience in public and/or private law to provide high-quality legal advice and client-focused services.

Skills in areas such as employment law, privacy law, administrative law, and statutory interpretation are desirable. We welcome applicants from public, private, or in-house backgrounds. If you're seeking a change from private practice, this role might be ideal. Your strategic input will contribute to positive changes for the people of NSW. This is an excellent opportunity for a motivated lawyer to advance their career while making a difference.

For more details, see the full Role Description: Senior Legal Officer.

What you will bring to the role

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills to effectively convey legal concepts.
• Outstanding stakeholder engagement skills to build strong relationships and ensure alignment with diverse stakeholders.
• Strong analytical skills and intellectual rigor to navigate complex challenges, adapt to evolving situations, and provide expert advice.
• Proficiency in working independently with a proactive, initiative-taking approach.

Essential requirements

• Admitted or eligible for admission as a Solicitor or Barrister in the Supreme Court of NSW and hold or be eligible for a NSW Practising Certificate.

About us

The Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure (DPHI) aims to improve NSW's liveability and prosperity by creating vibrant spaces, managing land assets, and delivering diverse housing options. We strive to be a high-performing, inclusive, and culturally capable public service organization that reflects the community we serve, including Aboriginal communities and entities.

We promote an accessible workplace where your contributions are valued, and everyone can feel a sense of belonging. DPHI supports various employee groups, flexible work practices, job sharing, and workplace adjustments.

Join us

If you're excited about this opportunity, we look forward to your application, including a resume and cover letter demonstrating your interest and suitability.

Applications close at 11:55 PM on Monday, 12 May 2025.

For further information, contact Alice Beasley. A recruitment pool may be established for ongoing and temporary roles of similar nature over the next 18 months.

Eligibility criteria include being an Australian or New Zealand citizen, permanent resident, or holding a valid Australian work visa for the duration of the role.

We encourage applications from people with disabilities and are happy to discuss accommodations or adjustments during the recruitment process. Please contact the Talent Team via the provided contact options, referencing your request.

See our Aboriginal applicants' guide or contact our Aboriginal Careers team for assistance with applications.

Role details

Required Experience: Senior IC

Key Skills

Ab initio, Freelance Writing, Bus Driving, Bank Reconciliation, Export Sales, Clinical

Employment Type: Full-Time

Experience: Years

Vacancy: 1

Monthly Salary: $141,175 - $164,405