Job Description
Public law, in particular constitutional law
Canberra, Sydney, Brisbane, Adelaide or Melbourne locations
Permanent role at the SESB2 level
AGS is seeking applications from senior practitioners to join the Office of General Counsel (OGC) as Deputy Chief Solicitor (Constitutional Litigation). This is an important leadership role for an expert in constitutional litigation who can lead and support a team conducting complex, significant and precedential cases for the Commonwealth.
About us
Australian Government Solicitor (AGS) is the Australian Government’s central legal practice and part of the Attorney-General’s Department. AGS helps Commonwealth clients to manage legal issues, navigate new challenges and find solutions which deliver the best outcomes for Australia. We are a self-funded legal practice and compete for our work.
AGS is unique. AGS is dedicated to the national interest and is a trusted advisor to Government.
AGS is innovative. Drawing on an exceptional depth of experience and expertise, we assist the Australian Government in the development and implementation of solutions to legal issues that have national importance.
AGS is diverse. With offices in every capital city and a team of 800 staff, including 576 lawyers, we work in more than 40 different areas of law related to government.
About the role
OGC is a team of approximately 110 lawyers who specialise in the provision of legal advice and assistance to the Commonwealth Government on constitutional and public law, complex statutory interpretation and the development, implementation and administration of legislation. Our work often involves advising on matters of national security. OGC also acts for the Commonwealth in High Court constitutional litigation and coordinating the conduct of other cases involving constitutional issues. This work touches on core aspects of Australia's system of government, with often enduring implications for the Commonwealth and the nation.
The Deputy Chief Solicitor (Constitutional Litigation) is a senior professional leader in AGS and is responsible for strategically planning, managing, leading and providing legal services on complex high risk constitutional litigation and related matters for the Commonwealth. The role provides strategic and intellectual leadership across OGC and acts as a point of escalation on complex, significant and precedential issues in constitutional litigation matters. The Deputy Chief Solicitor (Constitutional Litigation) role builds strong relationships with senior government clients, leads and mentors teams of lawyers and fosters a safe, inclusive and high performing workplace in line with APS and departmental standards.
For further information about the requirements of the role, please refer to the role description available below.
About you
The successful candidate will need to possess the following skills and attributes:
substantial legal experience (including at the senior executive level or partner level) in constitutional law and litigation and detailed knowledge of the Commonwealth legal environment
professional standing as a leading expert in the Commonwealth public sector and/or legal profession
demonstrated ability and commitment to effectively supervise, train, mentor and develop other lawyers
excellent professional judgement, interpersonal skills and the ability to communicate with influence and build client relationships
the capacity to lead, both within and beyond OGC, and positively contribute to the broader AGS practice.
You will work with a community of professionals dedicated to the national interest. You will work collaboratively in an inclusive environment where everyone’s contribution is valued, and success is rewarded. We offer our employees competitive remuneration packages, including 15.4% superannuation.
AGS is a supportive organisation which embraces diversity. We understand that work is only part of your life and while our workplace can be demanding at times, we also provide access to a range of flexible working options, generous leave entitlements and wellbeing benefits to support your needs throughout your career.
To apply
To apply you must be an Australian Citizen and be willing to obtain and maintain a security clearance at the Negative Vetting 2 (NV2) level (or higher if required).
To apply, please click the ‘Begin’ button and upload a 1-2 page cover letter indicating your relevant experience with reference to the required skills and experience set out above and in the relevant role description, along with a copy of your CV.
Applications close at 5:00pm (AEST) on Friday, 24 April 2026.
Further enquiries
Further information can be obtained by contacting Natalie Lightfoot, HR Business Partner on 02 6253 7529.
Canberra, Sydney, Brisbane, Adelaide or Melbourne locations
Permanent role at the SESB2 level
AGS is seeking applications from senior practitioners to join the Office of General Counsel (OGC) as Deputy Chief Solicitor (Constitutional Litigation). This is an important leadership role for an expert in constitutional litigation who can lead and support a team conducting complex, significant and precedential cases for the Commonwealth.
About us
Australian Government Solicitor (AGS) is the Australian Government’s central legal practice and part of the Attorney-General’s Department. AGS helps Commonwealth clients to manage legal issues, navigate new challenges and find solutions which deliver the best outcomes for Australia. We are a self-funded legal practice and compete for our work.
AGS is unique. AGS is dedicated to the national interest and is a trusted advisor to Government.
AGS is innovative. Drawing on an exceptional depth of experience and expertise, we assist the Australian Government in the development and implementation of solutions to legal issues that have national importance.
AGS is diverse. With offices in every capital city and a team of 800 staff, including 576 lawyers, we work in more than 40 different areas of law related to government.
About the role
OGC is a team of approximately 110 lawyers who specialise in the provision of legal advice and assistance to the Commonwealth Government on constitutional and public law, complex statutory interpretation and the development, implementation and administration of legislation. Our work often involves advising on matters of national security. OGC also acts for the Commonwealth in High Court constitutional litigation and coordinating the conduct of other cases involving constitutional issues. This work touches on core aspects of Australia's system of government, with often enduring implications for the Commonwealth and the nation.
The Deputy Chief Solicitor (Constitutional Litigation) is a senior professional leader in AGS and is responsible for strategically planning, managing, leading and providing legal services on complex high risk constitutional litigation and related matters for the Commonwealth. The role provides strategic and intellectual leadership across OGC and acts as a point of escalation on complex, significant and precedential issues in constitutional litigation matters. The Deputy Chief Solicitor (Constitutional Litigation) role builds strong relationships with senior government clients, leads and mentors teams of lawyers and fosters a safe, inclusive and high performing workplace in line with APS and departmental standards.
For further information about the requirements of the role, please refer to the role description available below.
About you
The successful candidate will need to possess the following skills and attributes:
substantial legal experience (including at the senior executive level or partner level) in constitutional law and litigation and detailed knowledge of the Commonwealth legal environment
professional standing as a leading expert in the Commonwealth public sector and/or legal profession
demonstrated ability and commitment to effectively supervise, train, mentor and develop other lawyers
excellent professional judgement, interpersonal skills and the ability to communicate with influence and build client relationships
the capacity to lead, both within and beyond OGC, and positively contribute to the broader AGS practice.
You will work with a community of professionals dedicated to the national interest. You will work collaboratively in an inclusive environment where everyone’s contribution is valued, and success is rewarded. We offer our employees competitive remuneration packages, including 15.4% superannuation.
AGS is a supportive organisation which embraces diversity. We understand that work is only part of your life and while our workplace can be demanding at times, we also provide access to a range of flexible working options, generous leave entitlements and wellbeing benefits to support your needs throughout your career.
To apply
To apply you must be an Australian Citizen and be willing to obtain and maintain a security clearance at the Negative Vetting 2 (NV2) level (or higher if required).
To apply, please click the ‘Begin’ button and upload a 1-2 page cover letter indicating your relevant experience with reference to the required skills and experience set out above and in the relevant role description, along with a copy of your CV.
Applications close at 5:00pm (AEST) on Friday, 24 April 2026.
Further enquiries
Further information can be obtained by contacting Natalie Lightfoot, HR Business Partner on 02 6253 7529.
💡 Quick Summary
Seeking a career-building opportunity? The Deputy Chief Solicitor – Constitutional Litigation position is now open for candidates interested in the Legal Jobs sector. This role in Sydney offers a professional environment and growth potential.
Requirement Snapshot: Candidates should possess basic communication skills, a proactive attitude, and the ability to work in a team. Experience in Legal Jobs is a plus.
