Job description
The Construction & General Division of the CFMEU is Australia's main trade union in the building and construction industries. The CFMEU is dedicated to protecting the lives and improving the conditions and wages of construction workers with the legal/industrial department playing a key role in enforcing the rights of union members.
The successful candidate will work with a national team of dedicated union officers and employees committed to the values and principles of unionism, and advancing the cause of the CFMEU and its members.
Qualifications and Experience
* Bachelor of Laws or Juris Doctor with an unrestricted current practicing certificate (or interstate certificate with capacity to obtain SA practicing certificate).
* The ideal candidate would have experience as a Legal Officer or 2+ years legal/industrial experience.
* Litigation experience either as an instructor or advocate is preferred.
* Experience and knowledge of right of entry is preferred.
* Must be proficient with Microsoft Office, Outlook, Excel, Adobe and related programs.
* Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
* Commitment to union values, including social justice, equity, and collective action.
Key Responsibilities
The Senior Legal Officer will be responsible for:
* All aspects of case preparation, management and advocacy for appearances or instructing in courts or the Fair Work Commission.
* Providing legal advice and assistance to CFMEU members, organisers and executive in South Australia regarding all manner of industrial and employment law matters, including workplace disputes, dismissals, underpayment claims, protected action ballots, industrial action, enterprise agreements and awards, right of entry permits and other matters as needed.
* Dealing with regulatory authorities (e.g. Fair Work Commission, SafeWork etc.).
* Interacting and liaising with legal/industrial officers from other CFMEU branches and other unions.
* Researching and writing submissions on issues that affect members of the CFMEU.
* Drafting enterprise agreements/clauses and participating in the bargaining and agreement making processes.
* General legal practitioner duties.
The CFMEU has a strong culture of litigating industrial matters whether to achieve collective aims or to enforce members' individual rights. A successful litigant will have the opportunity to participate in various litigation matters and work closely with some of the more preeminent Industrial barristers.
Applicant should submit their resume and cover letter to Renee Rowick via by 5:30pm 8 February 2026.