Paralegal (Land Acquisition, Planning and Environment team), Public Law and Planning - Victoria[...]

Job Description

Paralegal (Land Acquisition, Planning and Environment team), Public Law and Planning - Victorian Government Solicitor's Office The Victorian Government Solicitor's Office (VGSO) values diversity and seeks to attract and retain a diverse workforce with the best people for the role. We welcome applications from people of all ages, disability, ethnicity, family and caring responsibilities, gender, religion, sexual orientation and cultures including people of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander heritage. If you require a copy of this advertisement or any attached documentation in an accessible format, such as large print, please email . Unique opportunity to work on land acquisition projects and litigation matters at the core of government Friendly and supportive team environment Hybrid working from home/office environment Ongoing | Full-time or Part-time (open to job share arrangements) About the VGSO The Victorian Government Solicitor's Office (VGSO) serves the rule of law exclusively for the State. The VGSO provides responsive legal services exclusively for the Victorian Government and public sector. Our place within government ensures we are at the centre of legal change, reform and problem-solving. We operate as a service-driven legal professional practice and strive for excellence in this competitive environment. In all aspects of our operations, we aim to role model and live by our values: Responsiveness, Integrity, Insight, Collaboration and Excellence. About the branch and role The Public Law and Planning Branch understands Victorian public law in a way that is unrivalled by its competitors. The branch consists of three legal teams, including the Land Acquisition, Planning and Environment team whose practice spans advice and litigation. The team's advisory work includes advice on the application, interpretation and development of legislation and other instruments, principally in the team's subject areas. Its litigation focusses primarily on judicial and merits review of decision making in its subject areas, and contested land compensation and valuation matters. The team's subject areas include: Planning and built heritage; Environment and climate change; Land acquisition and compensation; Major projects, project powers and project delivery; Aboriginal cultural heritage; Forestry, water and other resources; and Emergency management. About the role Reporting to Lead Counsel or Managing Principal Solicitor, two new paralegal roles have been created to support a team of solicitors that provide legal services and advice to government clients. The day-to-day responsibilities of this role would include: Assist the team as required with compulsory acquisition work for major Victorian Government projects Assist the Legal Practice and Project Coordinator with project management, managing statutory deadlines and tracking matter deliverables Support the team with communications with claimants and the client, meeting deadlines, and the payment of claims arising from compulsory acquisition of land for large government projects Prepare and draft notices, forms, letters and settlement deeds Assist the team with litigation and document management/discovery related tasks Assist with legal research tasks to contribute to client advice and communications Assist in the preparation of tender processes and fee proposals Assistance may also be required in respect of other advisory and litigious matters in the team, in the following areas of law: Land acquisition and compensation; Planning and environment; Built and cultural heritage; Emergency management; Land valuation; Water law; and Merits and judicial review of administrative decisions especially in the context of the above areas of law. Skills and experience Prior experience working as a Paralegal Excellent attention to detail and consistent high standards of work Superior time management skills and the ability to multi-task and meet relevant deadlines Ability to appropriately deal with sensitive and highly confidential information A demonstrated ability to perform high quality legal research Ability to ‘think on your feet' and work independently in the absence of specific instruction Previous experience with document management/discovery related tasks would be highly desirable Knowledge and understanding of compulsory acquisition law, planning law, environmental law and administrative law is highly regarded Knowledge and understanding of proceedings in the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal or the Supreme Court, is highly regarded VGSO offers an inclusive, collegiate and collaborative work environment where you will be well-supported and mentored to develop your knowledge. You will also be given excellent career opportunities to progress and develop within the organisation. VGSO embraces flexibility and welcomes a conversation to help you achieve work-life balance. We currently work in a hybrid environment with employees enjoying a balance of working from home and in the office. How to apply If this sounds like the opportunity for you, apply now! Click the 'Apply Now' button to start your application. Applications must include a cover letter and resume. Please note it is not a requirement to respond to the Key Selection Criteria separately but applicants should outline their relevant experience in their cover letter. Applications close at 11:59pm on Sunday, 9 March 2025 Preferred candidates will be subject to pre-employment checks including but not limited to, reference checks, pre-employment misconduct screening and criminal record checks. #J-18808-Ljbffr