Graduate Aboriginal Solicitor/Policy Officer
Program: Maliyan Program
Department of Communities and Justice
Location – Sydney (regional locations considered)
Employment type – Ongoing
Salary – Legal Officer – Grade I - III, Base Salary ($79,322 - $134,458), plus employer’s contribution to superannuation and annual leave loading
This position is open to Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people only.
What You’ll Do
Undertake a range of legal activities in the relevant area(s) of law or policy to contribute to efficient and effective legal support services and policy reform for the Law Reform and Legal Division within the Department of Communities and Justice (DCJ). As a graduate of the Maliyan Program you will work in positions throughout the LRLS Division. The Maliyan Program provides the opportunity for Legal Graduates to commence their careers in a supportive and flexible working environment. The program lasts 24 months and upon successful completion the role is considered ongoing with potential permanent employment in the LRLS division. You will have the opportunity to rotate positions, work remotely or part‑time, and undertake regional work where suitable. You will work as part of a team to deliver legal support services and/or policy legislative reform. Responsibilities include legal and policy research and analysis, document drafting, stakeholder engagement, and provision of legal and policy advice under supervision.
DCJ Legal Branch responsibilities:
* Provide legal advice to internal and external stakeholders
* Provide litigation and dispute resolution services to internal and external stakeholders
* Provide representation and advocacy services to internal and external stakeholders
* Ensure the department’s governance and compliance with current laws
* Provide open government, information & privacy services, including determining applications made under the GIPA Act and facilitating access to information under the Commonwealth Redress Scheme and via subpoenas/statutory notices and orders
Policy Reform and Legislation Branch responsibilities:
* Identify the need for, and formulate changes to, the law and criminal justice system
* Ensure quality legal policy advice is provided to portfolio ministers and to government
* Implement portfolio ministers’ legislative programs
* Inform the community about changes to, and the operation of, legislation within the relevant portfolios
What We’re Looking For
* A passionate, driven graduate seeking a challenging and rewarding preview to the NSW Government, where you can make a difference from within
* Completion of a law degree from an accredited law school or completion of the Legal Practitioners Admission Board’s Diploma in Law Course within the past 12 months or expected completion within three months of application
* This role is open to Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander applicants only
* Willingness to undertake a Working with Children Check
* Willingness to travel for regional or interstate commitments
EEO Statement
Where a position is identified, an applicant’s race is a genuine occupational qualification under the exception in Section 14(d) of the Anti‑Discrimination Act 1977. To confirm Aboriginality, one of the following must be uploaded: confirmation of Aboriginality form; written confirmation from 2–3 Aboriginal organisations within the community which addresses descent, identification, and acceptance by the community.
What We Offer
* A challenging and rewarding career
* Flexible, autonomous work environment
* Competitive pay and conditions
* Training and development opportunities to build and maintain capabilities
* Health & Wellbeing and Employee Assistance Programs
Applications close: Sunday, 21 June 2026 at 11:59pm AEST.
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