Lawyer, Public Law

Organisation:
Department of Transport and Planning

Reference:
4433

This is a Fixed Term Position for 12 months

About the Role

Are you a lawyer who enjoys working on an interesting and varied mix of legal advice and litigation If so, we have an exciting opportunity for you! The work of DTP Legal encompasses a wide range of public law matters including statutory interpretation, administrative decision-making, human rights and discrimination, FOI and privacy, planning and public inquiries and investigations.

As a Lawyer, Public Law, you will conduct research and provide high quality advice on a breadth of legal issues under supervision. You willtake an active role in the conduct of litigation involving DTP, including merits review, property damage and personal injury claims, coronial investigations and judicial review. Under supportive supervision, you will deliver high quality client service and timely, clear and pragmatic legal advice and related services.

In this role, you will work closely with clients. You will also establish cooperative and collaborative relationships with colleagues, stakeholders, law firms, and Courts and Tribunals. A pragmatic and client-focused approach and a strong emphasis on teamwork are essential for success in this position.

About Us

DTP Legal is a Division within the Department, and is responsible for the provision of legal, legislative, commercial and information access advice and support to the Ministers, Secretary and Department in the achievement of the transport, land use and planning system vision, objectives and decision-making principles. The Public Law and Information Access Branch is the first point of contact in DTP Legal for requests for access to information, privacy advice, the conduct of litigation and provision of legal advice on a range of public law matters.

The Public Law and Information Access Branch provides advice and support to divisions of the Department and portfolio agencies, with a particular focus on litigation, inquiries, interpretation of legislation, administrative decision-making, privacy and information access. The Branch comprises a large team of lawyers and other professionals with expertise in public law matters, planning and land use legal issues, legal matters relating to First Peoples, privacy and information access. Within the Branch, there are three Public Law Teams with specific expertise in legal issues relating to litigation, legislative interpretation, and administrative law, and the Privacy and Information Access Team which provides advice and makes decisions particularly in relation to privacy and freedom of information (FOI).

If this opportunity doesn't quite align with your career aspirations there are a variety of other roles that might be a perfect fit for you. We encourage you to reach out and explore the many possibilities we offer.

Join us and make a meaningful impact with your legal expertise!

• Provides timely and accurate advice to DTP on a wide range of legal issues
• Conducts litigation for DTP, including briefing external lawyers where necessary.
• Prepares and processes a range of legal documentation, assists with the development of precedents and conducts negotiations to settle documentation.
• Establishes and maintains effective relationships with relevant stakeholders to support delivery of DTP objectives, working collaboratively across DTP Legal and the broader DTP in a proactive manner.
• Undertakes research and analysis and prepare reports, briefs and correspondence to support the delivery of legal services.
• Identifies potential legal risks to the DTP and supports the implementation of risk mitigation strategies.
• Performs other duties and tasks as directed.

Key Selection Criteria

To be successful in the role the ideal candidate will:

interpret legislation and related instruments with precision, adhering to established legal principles

offer independent, high-quality legal advice, ensuring clarity in legal issues and acting as an ethical and effective advocate

excel in litigating and resolving disputes across appropriate forums, demonstrating expertise in various jurisdictions

employ critical thinking to meticulously analyze data, consider diverse viewpoints, and address stakeholders' needs, leading to well-informed, relevant recommendations

communicate with impact, using a variety of media to convey information and insights clearly, showcasing exceptional written and verbal skills

demonstrate strong interpersonal skills by managing emotions effectively and understanding others' interests, striving for authentic and optimal outcomes in every interaction.

Qualifications and Experience

Mandatory Admitted as a lawyer in Victoria and holds (or entitled to hold) a practising certificate

What we offer

Meaningful work making Victorian communities more accessible and liveable

Professional growth and development opportunities across the department and the wider Victorian Public Services

A hybrid working model focused on collaboration and teamwork

Optimal work-life balance initiatives including flexible working arrangements

Opportunity to work across multiple urban and suburban hubs

We prioritise the development of a safe and inclusive culture

Culture Value

We are an equal opportunity employer, embracing a diverse range of applicants such as veterans, and people who identify as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander, LGBTQIA community members, individuals with disabilities and/or health conditions, as well as those from varied faith and cultural backgrounds. At our department, we prioritize the development of a safe, inclusive, and high-performance culture through shared actions and behaviours that align with our strategy and direction. This empowers our employees to effectively contribute to our goals.

How to Apply

DTP Employees or DTP Affiliates with VicGov People Login

To apply, click here to log in and start the application process.

Non-DTP Employees (Including VPS outside of DTP)

Create an account by clicking the 'Apply' button and follow the prompts. For help, click here for Quick Reference Guide.

Applications close at 11:
59 PM on Wednesday 3 July 2024

Please include a resume and cover letter. All applications must be submitted through the online portal. We're unable to consider email or manual applications.

For more information, contact either Lisa Kelly - Principal Lawyer, Public Law at or Yvonne Agosta - Director Legal, Public Law at

Preferred applicants will need to complete a police check and other pre-employment checks. Your information will be treated confidentially.

If you require additional adjustments across the recruitment process or accessible formats of this ad, please contact us by phone or email.

43 jobs are currently listed for Department of Transport and Planning

Job type:

Full Time - Fixed Term

Job classification:

VPSG4

Contact:

- Principal Lawyer, Public Law Lisa Kelly - NA