Overview
Join to apply for the Public Defenders - Newcastle role at NSW Department of Communities and Justice.
The NSW Attorney General is seeking applications for a Public Defender under the Public Defenders Act 1995, to be based in Newcastle. The role is for a Public Defender who will primarily appear in District Court trials, with potential appearances in the Supreme Court and appellate courts. Some travel is a requirement.
Role: Public Defenders are specialist criminal law barristers who appear for disadvantaged (legally aided) defendants in serious criminal cases. They also provide leadership, education and policy advice to the government. The successful applicants will primarily appear in District Court trials but may also appear in Supreme Court trials and appeals to the NSWSC, NSWCCA, NSWCA and the High Court.
Term: After successful completion of a 12-month probationary period, appointments are for a fixed term of seven years, renewable.
Responsibilities
Provide advocacy in criminal trials for legally aided defendants; contribute to leadership and education within the legal profession; offer policy advice to government where required.
Selection criteria
Applicants must be an Australian lawyer, with advocacy experience in criminal trials. Detailed criteria are set out in the Guidelines for the appointment of Public Defenders available at publicdefenders.nsw.gov.au.
Application process
An application addressing the selection criteria, with a detailed curriculum vitae and the names of at least two referees, must be submitted online by 11.59 pm AEDST on Sunday, 12 October 2025: jobs.dcj.nsw.gov.au (Job Reference Number 78203).
Enquiries: Richard Wilson SC, Senior Public Defender,.
Seniority level
- Mid-Senior level
Employment type
- Full time
Job function
- Legal
- Industries: Government Administration
Enquiries: For further information about this role and its requirements, refer to the NSW Department of Communities and Justice job posting.
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📌 Public Defenders - Newcastle
🏢 Nsw Department Of Communities And Justice
📍 Newcastle City Council