Job Description
About us
The Department of Government Services (DGS) was established on 1 January 2026 to improve everyone's experience of doing business and interacting with the Victorian government. We bring important day-to-day services together in one department to make things easy and seamless for Victorians and businesses. We are doing this by connecting and digitising our systems and platforms across state and local government as well as streamlining our corporate and procurement services.
About the role
The successful candidate will join an energetic and innovative team recently formed from multiple Departments. We are driven to achieve client-centred outcomes that improve everyone's experience of doing business and interacting with the Victorian government. We work flexibly and promote a positive and supportive work environment with opportunities to grow and develop.
The Legislation & Policy Team supports the Secretary in overseeing DGS' legislation program, and provides strategic legal advice and support in relation to DGS Ministers' legislative and regulatory reform projects. This work includes supporting portfolio business units on the development of Bills, regulations and subordinate instruments.
About you
To be considered for the role, you must be able to demonstrate:
Detailed knowledge and understanding of legislative processes, including Cabinet, Executive Council and Parliamentary processes and requirements, and experience in developing primary and subordinate legislation under limited supervision.
Detailed knowledge of and experience in the principles and practice of public, administrative, human rights and constitutional law, with strong statutory interpretation skills.
High level research, conceptual and analytical skills and proven ability to develop recommendations on complex legal, legislative and policy issues.
For specific responsibilities please review the attached position description.
Mandatory requirements
You must be admitted to practice as an Australian lawyer and eligible to hold a Victorian practising certificate, with at least 4 years experience in legislation development or public law.
Applicants with relevant experience in both Victorian and non-Victorian jurisdictions are encouraged to apply.
This position is only open to applicants with relevant rights to work in Australia.
How to apply
Apply before the advertised closing date 11:59pm on 17th August 2026 . All applications should include:
a resume; and
a cover letter which addresses the key selection criteria, with particular emphasis on technical experience (within two pages)
Other relevant information
The department is committed to providing and maintaining a working environment which is safe and without risk to the health of its employees and clients and consistent with the department's obligations under the Occupational Health and Safety Act 2004 (OH&S Act), to support this DGS has a COVID-19 Vaccination policy which strongly recommends all DGS employees be fully vaccinated.
Preferred candidates will be required to complete a Pre-employment Declaration and Consent Form. Employment of successful candidates will be subject to a National Police Check.
DGS actively promotes diversity, inclusion and an equal opportunity workplace. We welcome applicants from all diverse backgrounds, including people with disabilities and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. All roles at DGS can be worked flexibly, however it may differ from role to role.
The Department of Government Services (DGS) was established on 1 January 2026 to improve everyone's experience of doing business and interacting with the Victorian government. We bring important day-to-day services together in one department to make things easy and seamless for Victorians and businesses. We are doing this by connecting and digitising our systems and platforms across state and local government as well as streamlining our corporate and procurement services.
About the role
The successful candidate will join an energetic and innovative team recently formed from multiple Departments. We are driven to achieve client-centred outcomes that improve everyone's experience of doing business and interacting with the Victorian government. We work flexibly and promote a positive and supportive work environment with opportunities to grow and develop.
The Legislation & Policy Team supports the Secretary in overseeing DGS' legislation program, and provides strategic legal advice and support in relation to DGS Ministers' legislative and regulatory reform projects. This work includes supporting portfolio business units on the development of Bills, regulations and subordinate instruments.
About you
To be considered for the role, you must be able to demonstrate:
Detailed knowledge and understanding of legislative processes, including Cabinet, Executive Council and Parliamentary processes and requirements, and experience in developing primary and subordinate legislation under limited supervision.
Detailed knowledge of and experience in the principles and practice of public, administrative, human rights and constitutional law, with strong statutory interpretation skills.
High level research, conceptual and analytical skills and proven ability to develop recommendations on complex legal, legislative and policy issues.
For specific responsibilities please review the attached position description.
Mandatory requirements
You must be admitted to practice as an Australian lawyer and eligible to hold a Victorian practising certificate, with at least 4 years experience in legislation development or public law.
Applicants with relevant experience in both Victorian and non-Victorian jurisdictions are encouraged to apply.
This position is only open to applicants with relevant rights to work in Australia.
How to apply
Apply before the advertised closing date 11:59pm on 17th August 2026 . All applications should include:
a resume; and
a cover letter which addresses the key selection criteria, with particular emphasis on technical experience (within two pages)
Other relevant information
The department is committed to providing and maintaining a working environment which is safe and without risk to the health of its employees and clients and consistent with the department's obligations under the Occupational Health and Safety Act 2004 (OH&S Act), to support this DGS has a COVID-19 Vaccination policy which strongly recommends all DGS employees be fully vaccinated.
Preferred candidates will be required to complete a Pre-employment Declaration and Consent Form. Employment of successful candidates will be subject to a National Police Check.
DGS actively promotes diversity, inclusion and an equal opportunity workplace. We welcome applicants from all diverse backgrounds, including people with disabilities and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. All roles at DGS can be worked flexibly, however it may differ from role to role.
💡 Quick Summary
Seeking a career-building opportunity? The Senior Legal Adviser, Legislation & Policy position is now open for candidates interested in the Legal Jobs sector. This role in Melbourne City Centre 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.
