Lawyer

Location: Darwin
Status: Full-time Ongoing and 12 month Fixed -Term roles available
Total Remuneration Package Value from: $100,757 – $166,146 subject to years of experience post admission Inclusive of 15% Superannuation

The Northern Land Council (NLC) is seeking talented legal professionals to make a meaningful impact by providing expert advice and representation on vital issues affecting land, water, and Indigenous community rights across the top half of the Northern Territory.

About the Role

In this role, you’ll help to protect and advance the rights of Aboriginal people by supporting Traditional Owners and communities in the recognition, management and sustainable use of their lands and waters. Your work will contribute to delivering meaningful social, cultural and economic outcomes.

As part of a large, dynamic legal team, you’ll collaborate with professionals from diverse disciplines, including anthropologists and land management experts. The legal practice covers a broad range of areas including:

Native title claims;
Land rights claims under the Aboriginal Land Rights (Northern Territory) Act 1976 (Cth);
Negotiating agreements for mining, energy and renewable energy activities;
Negotiating agreements for other land uses, such as pastoralism, public infrastructure and Indigenous businesses.
Administrative and environmental advice and strategic litigation.
Whether you're early in your career or an experienced legal practitioner, these roles offer diverse, hands-on experience and the opportunity to work in a unique legal and cultural environment.

What You Will Bring:

You will bring exceptional cross-cultural, interpersonal, and communication skills, combined with the ability to work collaboratively with a multitude of stakeholders to build strong, productive relationships and drive impactful engagement. Proven experience in property law, native title, or environmental law combined with a collaborative mindset, a commitment to social justice and strong advocacy and negotiation skills will sit you in good stead to thrive in this dynamic and rewarding environment.

In addition to this we are looking for:

A current practice certificate in an Australian jurisdiction
At least 2 years post‐admission experience in legal practice
An ability to build strong relationships with diverse stakeholders, including Traditional Owners, government, and proponents;
Knowledge of the Aboriginal Land Rights (NT) Act and the Native Title Act;
C Class Drivers Licence and the ability and willingness to undertake remote travel in a manual 4WD vehicle or light aircraft.

For a full copy of the Position Description refer to the link provided below.

Why Join the NLC?

You will work in some of the most stunning and culturally significant regions of Australia and be part of a dedicated team that values innovation, respect, and cultural integrity with opportunities for professional growth and development in a unique legal landscape.

What’s in it for you?

Working for an independent statutory body to protect the interests of Traditional Owners and constituents concerning their land and seas you will have opportunities to develop and expand your experience and skills while realising competitive benefits and the satisfaction of driving meaningful change in communities.

A base salary plus 15% superannuation on base and DA and salary sacrificing up to $15,900 + Meal Entertainment and Holiday Accommodation benefits up to $2,650 per year.
Other benefits under our Enterprise Agreement include:
District Allowance DA of up to $4,797 per annum for individuals with dependents and $2,630 without dependents.
5 weeks annual leave, leaving loading, 18 days personal leave;
Paid Christmas close down;
Upon completion of 12 months of service an Annual airfare with a net (in hand) value of $3,177
To apply for this role, you will need to provide a cover letter outlining your interest, skills, and experience, in line with the essential criteria, a copy of your qualifications / certification, along with your CV.

Applications Close: Sunday 31st August 2025.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander candidates are encouraged to apply.

The Northern Land Council reserves the right to interview suitable candidates prior to the closing date of applications, as this recruitment process is intended to fill multiple positions.

About the NLC

The Northern Land Council (NLC) is an independent statutory authority of the Commonwealth. The NLC is established under the Aboriginal Land Rights Act (NT) 1976 and its purpose is to serve its constituents who are Traditional Owners and other Aboriginal people living in the region. Cultural knowledge and lived experience are central to the work that we do here at NLC. We are committed to enhancing Aboriginal people’s social, political and economic participation by supporting their aspirations and amplifying their voices on a range of issues impacting on their lands, seas, culture and communities.

Australia
Northern Territory
Darwin Show on map Get directions