* Work on high-profile and strategically significant property transactions, public infrastructure developments and ancillary advice
* Lead a dynamic and respected legal team within a collaborative and values-driven government organisation
* Hybrid work - enjoy the flexibility of office and remote work
* Ongoing | Full time
* VPS 6.2 $162, ,518 plus superannuation per annum
About the VGSO
The Victorian Government Solicitor's Office (VGSO) serves the rule of law exclusively for the State. Our place within government ensures we are at the centre of legal change, reform and problem-solving. We operate as a service-driven legal professional practice and strive for excellence in this competitive environment. In all aspects of our operations, we aim to role model and live by our values: Responsiveness, Integrity, Insight, Collaboration and Excellence.
About our branch
The Commercial, Property and Technology (CP&T) Branch assists government clients to conduct significant transactions and projects, manage their corporate affairs and acquire, manage or dispose of estates and interests in land, goods or services. The branch offers specialist services in IP/IT, property and Native Title. It offers deep commercial expertise with a government perspective.
The Property Team advises government clients in relation to a wide range of leasing, licensing, purchase and sale transactions and public infrastructure developments occurring on Crown and freehold land, involving the private sector and other government agencies.
Many of these land transactions, developments and projects involve substantial financial commitments by government, and the provision of significant infrastructure or services to clients, which include departments and statutory authorities.
About the role
We have an exciting opportunity for a senior and experienced lawyer to join the property team as a Managing Principal Solicitor and assist in responding to the ever-growing demand for our legal services and make a meaningful contribution to the efficient and successful delivery of major public infrastructure projects shaping Victoria's future.
This role involves working closely with Lead Counsels, and the Assistant Victorian Government Solicitor, to oversee a diverse and complex portfolio of property matters. In this role you will:
* Lead and develop a team of talented solicitors, fostering a collaborative, high-performance culture.
* Manage significant property transactions, including purchases, sales, leasing, and advise on the available options for resolution of property-related matters and disputes.
* Advise on major public infrastructure developments and projects, providing strategic, solutions-focused legal advice and transactional representation to government clients.
* Engage with senior stakeholders across departments and agencies, building trusted relationships and delivering practical advice that balances legal risk with achievement of client objectives and desirable policy outcomes.
* Contribute to the strategic direction of the Property Team, anticipating emerging issues and shaping best practice in government property law.
* Contribute to business development, client engagement and service delivery across the Branch, including delivery of targeted client presentations and preparation of request for proposal and tender responses.
* Oversee workflow, performance standards, recruitment, and training within the Property Team on an 'as needs' basis.
Skills and experience
* Extensive knowledge of real property law and experience in drafting and negotiating complex contracts of sale, leases, development agreements and other agreements which regulate the use and development of land.
* Proven leadership and team management skills, with a focus on mentoring, cultural and performance development.
* Demonstrated ability to provide clear, concise and authoritative legal advice on sensitive and complex matters.
* High-quality advisory skills: Proven ability to provide timely, high-quality written and oral advice and make sound recommendations that are fit for purpose and meet clients' needs.
* Interpersonal communication: Excellent communication skills to connect with team members and promote delivery of exceptional results for clients.
* Client relationships: Ability to develop, maintain and grow positive existing client relationships and identify and grasp new business opportunities in a strategic manner.
* Time management: Proven ability to effectively manage competing priorities in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
* Problem-solving: Practical and client-focused problem-solving and research skills.
* Responsiveness: Strong focus on responsiveness and ability to work effectively under pressure.
* Thorough understanding of government structures, policies and legal frameworks.
This role will suit a legal professional with significant experience in property law, transactions and projects with exceptional leadership skills, and a proven track record of managing challenging projects successfully and delivering practical and accessible legal advice that meets clients' needs. You will bring sound judgment, strong communication and negotiation skills, and the ability to balance legal risk with the practical needs of government clients and achievement of desirable policy outcomes.
Benefits
VGSO offers an inclusive, collegiate and collaborative work environment where you will be well-supported and mentored to develop your knowledge. You will also be given excellent career opportunities to progress and develop within the organisation.
VGSO embraces flexibility and recognises the importance of work-life balance. We offer a flexible hybrid work arrangement, allowing employees to spend half of their time working remotely and the other half in the office. This setup encourages collaboration and strengthens team connections, while supporting your ability to achieve a healthy work-life balance.
How to apply
If this sounds like the opportunity for you, apply now
Click the 'Apply Now' to start your application. Applications must include:
* a cover letter (no longer than 2 pages)
* resume
Please note it is not a requirement to respond to the Key Selection Criteria separately, but applicants should outline their relevant skills/experience and suitability to the role in their cover letter.
To find out more about this role, please view the position description attached. Alternatively, you can contact Kate Miller, Talent Acquisition Business Partner at or
Applications close at 11:59pm on Wednesday, 24 September 2025
Preferred candidates will be subject to pre-employment checks including but not limited to, reference checks, pre-employment misconduct screening and criminal record checks.