Job Description
The Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry's legal work is unique. You will have the opportunity to provide legal advice and services while working closely with policymakers and operational staff on matters that directly affect all Australians across areas as diverse as biosecurity, agricultural production, trade, food, wine, fisheries and forestry.
A job with Legal Division is a chance to meaningfully apply your legal skills to practical outcomes in an environment and with colleagues that are focused on supporting you, your learning and development as a lawyer.
About the Role
The Principal Legal Officer is a leadership role which helps to drive the vision and direction of the Practice as set out by the General Counsel. You will be responsible for motivating, mentoring and supervising your section to deliver on initiatives and goals whilst striving to create an inclusive, responsive and effective environment.
Your Key Responsibilities
You will provide legal advice and services to departmental clients, including providing guidance on regulatory systems, operations and cost recovery to assist staff on the front lines with Australia's quarantine, trade, food safety and exports across diverse supply chains, at airports and in the community.
You will develop and progress legislation, working closely with policymakers to put effective laws in place.
You will manage the department's litigation caseload and dispute resolution, including working with external law firms and counsel to provide strategic advice, to support the department's policy and operational activities.
You will provide employment law advice, including on investigations, work health and safety and external review proceedings.
You will advise on the department's extensive range of commercial matters, including advising on procurements and grants, ICT contracting, the Commonwealth resource management framework, intellectual property and property matters.
You will manage the department's legal issues arising from data management and information collection and management, including privacy advice and freedom of information requests.
About You
We are looking for individuals who possess significant previous experience of legal practice, with a minimum of five years post-admission experience. To be eligible for these positions, you are required to hold a degree in law and be eligible to hold an ACT legal practising certificate.
💡 Quick Summary
Seeking a career-building opportunity? The Principal Legal Officer position is now open for candidates interested in the Legal Jobs sector. This role in Canberra 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.
