Special Counsel

THE ROLE

The Special Counsel forms part of the executive function within the Statewide Child Protection Litigation Office (CPLO) and has lead responsibility for the provision and coordination of specialist legal advice and strategic management of complex child protection cases and appeals. The Special Counsel uses their specialist knowledge and highly developed advocacy skills to provide legal advice, representation and oversight in child protection matters on behalf of the Secretary, Department of Families, Fairness and Housing and the Community Operations & Practice Leadership Division, including the Office of Professional Practice. Reporting to the Director, CPLO, the Special Counsel works in close collaboration with the CPLO leadership team and departmental and external stakeholders and plays a key role in supporting practice development and improvement at the CPLO. 

The position will involve travel to metropolitan and regional Children's Courts and Child Protection Offices across Victoria to support CPLO staff, the department and its clients.

ACCOUNTABILITIES INCLUDE

• Lead on the oversight and management of complex legal matters and appeals and analysis of associated systemic implications or risks to the Secretary and implementation of any learnings or guidance. 
• Provide authoritative and specialist advice on complex legal and policy child protection issues, and prepare high level briefings and correspondence reflecting a strong understanding of cross government legal policy considerations.
• Provide professional and strategic leadership and management including:
  • management of direct reports including supporting individuals to achieve their potential while maximising their contribution to achieve their goals and outcomes.
  • managing and monitoring specific improvement objectives in annual improvement plans.
  • mentoring, coaching and leading on learning and practice development.
  • modelling behaviours integral to good people management and Departmental values.

Please open the position description to read more.

HOW TO APPLY

Applicants are encouraged to apply online. Attachments can be uploaded in .doc, .docx, .pdf, .txt or .rtf formats.
Applicants are required to submit a CV and Cover Letter (max 2 pages) outlining their suitability to the role in line with the Key Selection Criteria. 
Applicants must be an Australian Citizen, Permanent Resident or hold a valid work permit or visa. Work eligibility will be checked as part of the recruitment process. 
Preferred candidates will be required to complete pre-employment screening, including a national police check and misconduct screening.

For more information on working with us and our recruitment process, please visit Department of Families, Fairness and Housing Victoria | Jobs (www.dffh.vic.gov.au/jobs)

Please apply to submit your interest in this position.