About the Opportunity
ONRSR has established a new Statutory Compliance Division to lead the strategic, operational and legal direction for ONRSR's regulatory compliance, enforcement and prosecution functions and to manage ONRSR's legal risks.
The role of Executive Director Statutory Compliance is a key member of the executive leadership team and leads the strategic, operational and legal direction of ONRSR's regulatory compliance, enforcement and prosecution functions, reporting into and supporting the Chief Executive.
You will lead multidisciplinary teams, including legal prosecution, corporate and investigations and work closely with internal and external stakeholders to ensure the effective application of and adherence to relevant legislation, delivering robust investigative and compliance programs and leading prosecutions.
As the Chief Legal Officer for ONRSR, you will also manage legal risks, including corporate legal risks, and ensure regulatory responses are lawful, proportionate, effective and consistent with legislative and broader public interest.
About you – your impact and contribution
To succeed in this role you will have strong expertise in regulatory enforcement, prosecutions, administrative and criminal law in addition to strong engagement with key legal and industry stakeholders.
You will need to be someone that has a strong commitment to integrity and ethical leadership with demonstrated collaborative and strategic leadership capability. You can also work effectively as part of a team, building and maintaining positive working relationships both internally and externally.
To be successful in the position you should have:
* Legal qualifications and an appropriate practicing certificate.
* More than 5 years' experience at an executive level leading complex legal, compliance or enforcement functions in a regulatory, government or legal environment.
* Demonstrated ability to shape strategic direction and deliver organisational outcomes in a highly scrutinised, risk-based environment.
* Deep understanding of administrative, criminal and civil law principles relevant to regulatory enforcement.
* Over 5 years' experience overseeing or conducting high profile investigations and legal proceedings including demonstrated experience with litigation, courtroom advocacy and cross-examination.
* Strong skills in case preparation, trial advocacy, cross-examination and legal argumentation and understanding of principles of natural justice, evidence law and prosecutorial discretion.
* Strong understanding of defence strategies and counter-arguments.
* Ability to present complex evidence in court or tribunal settings.
* Ability to engage with external legal counsel, defence lawyers and regulatory violators.
* Demonstrated ability to manage legal risk and ensure regulatory actions are defensible, fair and transparent.
* Proven high level interpersonal, communication, negotiation and relationship development skills.
Our Organisation and Culture
The Office of the National Rail Safety Regulator (ONRSR) has the responsibility for regulatory oversight of rail safety throughout Australia. As an independent regulatory authority, ONRSR pursues safe railways for Australia by encouraging safe rail operations, enforcing national compliance with the Rail Safety National Law and promoting and improving rail safety across the country.
Be part of a values-led organisation with a strong commitment to its Culture Blueprint - the foundation for our purposeful, diverse and inclusive workplace and a key contributor to how we achieve our vision of Safe Railways for all Australians.
We are passionate about supporting Our People
At ONRSR we work together to deliver exceptional outcomes for Rail Safety for all Australians. Our colleagues have an impact far beyond work, and you'll be part of a team that is contributing to enhancing safety outcomes.
* You will be part of a $26 billion industry employing over 142,000 people that is at the forefront of innovation, productivity, and world's best practice.
* We invest in building the capability of our people through customised learning and development programs and by growing your curiosity and experience.
* Employee Assistance Program and Peer Support Network.
* Mentoring for your own development and the opportunity to mentor others.
* Extra 3 days leave with Christmas closedown for all colleagues.
* Salary packaging of car.
We support healthy work life balance, encourage ongoing learning and growth, and offer flexible work options to help our people succeed both professionally and personally. Whether you're building new skills or deepening your expertise, you'll find a team environment that's focused on connection, contribution, and continuous improvement. Further details on the benefits of working at ONRSR can be found at
The application process
Not sure you meet all the requirements? That's okay — we're interested in people who may not tick all the boxes. If this sounds like a place you'd thrive, we'd love to hear from you.
To Apply, please submit your resume along with a cover letter outlining why you are interested in the role and how your experience aligns with what we are looking for.
More information can be found in the Position Description which is attached below and can also be found at:
This role can be based in Sydney or Adelaide.
As part of the recruitment and selection process, shortlisted candidates will be required to undertake a national criminal history check. Please note that the outcome of this check will be considered in context and does not automatically disqualify applicants from progressing.
Enquiries to:
Applications close: Tuesday, 25 November 2025
At ONRSR, we're committed to building a diverse, inclusive and respectful workplace where everyone feels valued. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, including those of diverse gender identities, sexual orientations, cultures, religions, ages, abilities and neurodiversity.
If there's anything we can do to make the recruitment process more accessible or comfortable for you, please let us know – we're here to support you.
We also commit to responding to every applicant.
NOTE:
* You must be an Australian citizen, permanent resident or hold a valid work permit or visa, as we are unable to provide sponsorship.
* Applications are sought from direct candidates only. No agencies please.
* Application closing dates are at the discretion of ONRSR and may change without notice.
* Position Description - Executive Director Statutory Compliance