Senior Lawyer, Legislation and Government Law Unit
The Department of Education (the department) is responsible for delivering and regulating state-wide learning and development services to approximately one-third of all Victorians across the early childhood and school education sectors. The department is also one of Victoria's biggest employers, with approximately 80,000 teaching staff and around 5,000 public service employees.
The Legal Division provides highly valued legal services to support the delivery of the department's strategic objectives, key reforms and to manage legal risk. In doing so, Legal Division provides direct, practical and strategic legal advice to portfolio ministers, the secretary, other senior staff and over 1,600 government schools, supporting approximately over 650,000 Victorian Government school students.
About the role - 1 x 12 month fixed-term role
An exceptional opportunity has arisen for an experienced lawyer to further progress their legal career by working in an outstanding team in the Legislation and Government Law unit (LGLU) of the Commercial and Legislation branch in the Legal Division of the Department of Education.
Senior Lawyers in LGLU contribute to the development, management and implementation of legislative and regulatory projects, including the creation of new and amending primary legislation, and drafting subordinate instruments, such as regulations, ministerial orders and notices. Senior Lawyers also provide legal advice with a focus on statutory interpretation, administrative law, public administration and good governance.
LGLU team members use their excellent legal drafting, legislation and legal policy expertise to support departmental corporate clients in relation to schools, early childhood education and corporate central and regional offices.
Senior Lawyers will also provide government and administrative law advice, with a focus on government decision-making, including on the internationalisation of education (such as the development and application of policies and practices, and compliance with a broad range of relevant Commonwealth and state laws, including on human rights, student welfare and wellbeing, and the provision of education to international students). This involves developing and interpreting legislation, client training and education, and assisting other areas of the division in their work on a range of matters.
* Challenging, purpose-based work that makes a difference – Be part of a passionate, high-performing team that helps support life-long learning in Victoria.
* Meaningful work that is varied, satisfying and rewarding – As part of a career in the public sector you can help shape Victoria's future, serve the community and follow your ambition. Visit https://careers.vic.gov.au/why-work-for-vic to find out more about careers in the public service and the range of careers available.
* Flexible and hybrid working arrangements – Part time, flexible start and finish times, work from home to help manage your work and personal commitments.
* Competitive salary – Bi-annual salary increases in line with the Victorian Public Service Enterprise Agreement.
* Diversity and inclusion – As one of Victoria's largest employers, the department is committed to creating an inclusive workforce that represents the community it serves.
* Values – The department has adopted the public sector values set out in the Code of Conduct for Victorian Public Sector Employees, which include Responsiveness, Integrity, Impartiality, Accountability, Respect, Leadership and Human Rights. The department's values underpin how we interact with colleagues, students and families, members of the community, suppliers and government.
* Employee assistance program – For emotional, mental and general psychological wellbeing and support.
How to apply
Applicants are required to submit a CV and a cover letter summarising their skills and experience (no more than two pages).
For more details regarding this position please see the attached position description. For a confidential discussion please phone Patrick Hossack, Acting Principal Lawyer and Manager, LGLU on (03) 7008 8316.
Visit http://www.careers.vic.gov.au/vacancies/tips-for-applying for guidelines and tips for applying for government positions.
Further Information
The department values diversity and inclusion in all forms – gender, religion, ethnicity, LGBTIQ+, disability and neurodiversity. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander candidates are strongly encouraged to apply. For more information about our work, working for the Department, diversity and inclusion, and our employment conditions visit the Department website and our Diversity and Inclusion page.
Applicants requiring adjustments can contact the nominated contact person.
Information about the Department of Education's operations and employment conditions can be located at http://www.education.vic.gov.au.
Preferred applicants may be required to complete a police check and may be subject to other pre-employment checks. Information provided to the Department of Education will be treated in the strictest confidence.
Please let us know via phone or email if you require any adjustments to ensure your full participation in the recruitment process or if you need the ad or any attachments in an accessible format (e.g. large print) due to any viewing difficulties or other accessibility requirements.
Applications close 11.59pm on Monday 15 December 2025.
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