Solicitor, Public Law and Legislation

Job Description

Reference: VG/POLAR722966722972 Salary Range: $95,102 - $107,905 The Department of Health plays a critical role in the Victorian health system and is responsible for shaping it to meet the health needs of all Victorians. We’re focused on supporting Victorians to be as healthy as they can; whether through alerting them to seasonal risks like thunderstorm asthma, notifying them of contact with communicable diseases, safeguarding their drinking water, developing the best health, wellbeing and care facilities in the world, being at the forefront of mental health and wellbeing treatment or accelerating medical research. It’s all part of the way we partner with the community to help every individual lead a healthy life. About the role: Reporting to the Managing Principal Solicitor, Public Law and Legislation Team within the Legal Services and Integrity Branch, the Solicitor role will assist the Public Law and Legislation Team in a wide variety of work including provision of advice, involvement in legislation such 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. This position will have a particular focus on the drafting of subordinate legislation and involvement in the making of primary legislation. How you'll make a difference: Provide well-reasoned legal advice, contracts and other legal documents, briefings and correspondence. Support the delivery of high quality, client focused and cost-effective legal services in relation to complex and sensitive matters with the aim of effectively and cooperatively resolving issues and ensuring the department adopts a culture of continual service improvement. 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. Minimum Requirements: The successful candidate must hold (or be eligible to hold) a current practicing certificate under the Legal Profession Uniform Law (Vic). Preferable to have a minimum of 2 years post admission experience. 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 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. #J-18808-Ljbffr