About the role: 

Are you:

• Client and outcomes focused and committed to excellence?
• Able to work collaboratively and productively in a team and build relationships on trust?
• Creative and resourceful in problem thinking?

Reporting to the Managing Principal Solicitor, Public Law and Legislation Team within the Legal Services and Integrity Branch, the Senior Solicitor role will support the Public Law and Legislation Team in a wide variety of work including the provision of expert and specialist advice to Ministers, the Secretary, the Department of Health and relevant Administrative Offices on a range of administrative law matters.

The role will have a specific focus on supporting the team in the involvement in the making of primary legislations as well as drafting of subordinate legislation, preparation of Ministerial correspondence and Governor in Council briefings in the health, ambulance services, mental health and ageing portfolios.  

The legal work includes conduct of mental impairment and unfitness to be tried matters, in addition to advice on relevant laws and on legal policy issues.

About us: 

At the Victorian Department of Health we want a future where Victorians are the healthiest people in the world. A Victoria where our children and people thrive, our workplaces are productive and safe, and our communities are more connected.  

We see it as our job to support Victorians to stay healthy and safe. And to deliver a world-class healthcare system that ensures every single Victorian can access safe, quality care that leads to better health outcomes for all. 

About you:

We are looking for someone who can:

• Provide high level, well-reasoned legal advice, contracts and other legal documents, as well as briefings and correspondence.
• Collaborate with departmental colleagues to deliver client focused legal services, including engaging with solicitors on the State Government Legal Panel where necessary.
• Prepare Governor in Council documents and other instruments and draft subordinate legislation and drafting instructions for the drafting of primary legislation.   
• Prepare briefs and instruct counsel in the County and Supreme Courts in relation to matters under the Crimes (Mental Impairment and Unfitness to be Tried) Act 1997
• Liaise with external stakeholders including barristers, court/tribunal staff, other government departments and agencies and professional bodies in relation to a wide range of legal and policy issues. 

Qualifications / Specialist Expertise

• The successful candidate must hold (or be eligible to hold) a current practicing certificate under the Legal Profession Uniform Law (Vic).
• Minimum of 5 years post admission experience is preferred.  

It would be expected that the successful applicant will have:

• an understanding of the process for the making of legislation and subordinate legislation.
• good statutory interpretation skills.

What we offer: 

• The opportunity to perform meaningful work, making direct contributions toward enabling Victorians to be the healthiest people in the world.
• A wide range of growth and development opportunities within the department and wider Victorian Public Service & Sector.
• A strong commitment to work-life balance, including a diverse array of flexible working arrangements.

How to apply: 

Applications should include a resume and a cover letter. Click the ‘Apply' button to view further information about the role including key contact details and the advertisement closing date. 

We are committed to developing and supporting a workforce that is well equipped and highly motivated to provide responsive and quality services to all Victorians. We continue to build an inclusive workplace that embraces diversity of backgrounds and differences to realise the potential of our employees for innovation and delivering services aimed at enhancing the lives of all Victorians. All roles can be worked flexibly and we encourage applications from Aboriginal people, people with disability, LGBTIQ+ and people from culturally diverse backgrounds. Please contact us if you require any adjustments to participate in the recruitment process at inclusion@health.vic.gov.au. For more information on our commitment to inclusion and diversity see inclusion and diversity at the Department of Health.

Preferred applicants may be required to complete a police check and other pre-employment checks. Information provided will be treated in the strictest confidence in line with our Privacy Policy. If you have any queries in relation to the application or recruitment processes, please email talentacquisition@health.vic.gov.au.