Together we shape thriving communities, public spaces, places and economies.

• Bring your expertise in Local Government and Privacy law and elevate your legal career managing a broad range of complex, rewarding work
• Full-time opportunity
• Office location - Parramatta, Newcastle, Orange other established NSW Locations may be considered
• Salary relative to experience and ranges from $141,175 to $164,405 + super

What’s in it for me?

Join our team for a fantastic culture with dynamic collaboration and genuine long-term career support. We offer flexibility in work arrangements, diverse and fulfilling assignments, and prioritise work/life balance and wellbeing with initiatives like flex leave and access to support programs. Additionally, we are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone feels welcome, respected, and empowered to succeed.

The role

In this role, you’ll be at the forefront of generalist in house law at one of the largest Departments in the State. You’ll tackle complex and sensitive matters, delivering solutions-focused legal services within tight timeframes. Your expertise will be crucial in advising the highest levels of government to manage risk and support the Department and its initiatives. 

You will be part of a new team, whose focus is on in house excellence. It is an exciting opportunity for a lawyer eager to use their experience in public and/or private law to deliver high-quality legal advice and superior client-focused services.

Areas you may have skills in include employment law, privacy law, administrative law and statutory interpretation. We are open to applicants with broad backgrounds in public, private or in house law. If you are looking for a change from private practice, this might be the role for you! Our Department makes positive changes for the people of NSW, and your strategic input will contribute directly. This is an excellent opportunity for a motivated Lawyer to progress their career while achieving for the people of NSW. 

For more information read the full Role Description: Principal Legal Officer

What you will bring to the role

• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, to effectively convey the full range of legal concepts within your area of expertise. 
• Outstanding stakeholder engagement skills, fostering strong relationships and ensuring alignment with diverse stakeholders to achieve outcomes. 
• Strong analytical skills and intellectual rigour to navigate complex challenges, adapt to evolving situations  and provide expert advisory services
• Enjoys autonomy and demonstrates proficiency in working independently, bringing a proactive and enabling approach to work, taking the initiative, and making decisions. 

What is an essential requirement:

• Admitted or qualified for admission as a Solicitor or Barrister in the Supreme Court of NSW and hold, or be eligible to hold, a NSW Practising Certificate.

About us

The Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure (DPHI) improves the liveability and prosperity of NSW. To achieve this, we: create vibrant, productive spaces and precincts; manage lands, assets and property effectively and deliver affordable and diverse housing. We strive to be a high-performing, world-class public service organisation that celebrates and reflects the full diversity of the community we serve and builds the cultural capability of our department to improve outcomes with and for Aboriginal people, communities and entities. 

We are an inclusive and accessible workplace, where your individual contributions are valued, and where everyone is encouraged to feel a sense of connection and belonging. DPHI supports various employee affinity groups, practices flexible working, offers job share and workplace adjustments.

Join us

If excited by the information above, we look forward to receiving your application, including a copy of your resume and cover letter expressing your interest and suitability for the role.

Applications close 11:55PM on Monday 12 May 2025

Should you require further information about the role please contact Alice Beasley on alice.beasley@dpie.nsw.gov.au

A recruitment pool may be created for ongoing and temporary opportunities of the same role or role type that may become available over the next 18 months.

Please note to be eligible to apply for this position you must be an Australian or New Zealand citizen or permanent resident, or hold a valid Australian working Visa for the duration of the appointment. 

We encourage and support applications from people with disability. Please reach out to us to discuss any accommodations or adjustments that may be needed during the recruitment process, ensuring that you have every opportunity to showcase your talent, skills, and potential. Contact the Talent Team via talent.acquisition@dpie.nsw.gov.au or (02) 63637676​ - HR Support, option 2, DPHI People Advisory, option 1 and reference 'Request an Adjustment - Job Title and Reference Number'.

Check out our Aboriginal applicants guide to assist with applying for the role or contact our Aboriginal Career pathways team for a yarn.