Senior Lawyer: Australian Human Rights Commission ,(VN-0768438)

The Senior Lawyer will provide high‑level legal and policy advice, conduct litigation and inquiries, and support the Commission’s human rights and anti‑discrimination mandate. On a day‑to‑day basis you’ll research legal issues, prepare submissions, assist with external litigation, help manage inquiries, advise on commercial arrangements, and represent the Commission in meetings and court proceedings.

Role Specifications

About the Opportunity

The Australian Human Rights Commission is Australia’s national human rights institution. We are dedicated to fostering a society where human rights are upheld, protected and celebrated. We work with government, business and civil society to promote and safeguard rights, improve laws and policies, and provide accessible investigation and conciliation services. Our Legal Division offers high‑level in‑house advice on human rights, anti‑discrimination, and commercial matters, and represents the Commission in external litigation. If you want to make a tangible difference in people’s lives through solid legal work, this is your place.

As a Senior Lawyer in our team you’ll contribute to a culture that values integrity, collaboration, and a commitment to equal opportunity. You’ll work with a small, dynamic group of legal professionals where your expertise will shape public conversations about human rights and help drive outcomes that matter for diverse communities across Australia. If you’re ready to apply your experience in a meaningful public service context, we’d like to hear from you.

Duties (What You Will Do)

About You (Eligibility)

• Legal qualifications and current practising certificate.
• Minimum of five years post‑admission experience as a solicitor or equivalent.
• Strong ability to conduct legal research and provide high‑quality legal and policy advice promptly.
• Experience in litigious matters, preparing high‑level submissions, and acting as advocate or instructing solicitor in superior court proceedings.
• Excellent oral and written communication, plus organisational skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a small team and across the Commission’s sections.
• Familiarity with Australian and international anti‑discrimination and human rights law, including relevant covenants and instruments.
• Ability to build positive relationships and contribute to continuous improvement of the Legal team.

Important Information for Applicants

Jobs in australia for foreigners: The Australian Public Service requires Australian citizenship for employment under the Public Service Act 1999, though an Agency Head may waive this in appropriate cases. The Commission notes eligibility considerations and welcomes applicants who meet the minimum requirements and can obtain any necessary checks. If you require adjustments to participate in the recruitment process, you can request these under our accessibility policies.

Direct Answer

Citizenship is generally required for APS employment, with waivers possible in specific circumstances. If you are not an Australian citizen, you may still apply if a waiver applies or if you hold rights allowing APS work under the agency’s policy. Please contact the Hiring Contact for clarity on your individual eligibility based on your citizenship and visa status.

Additional Information

Diversity & Inclusion

We value inclusivity and actively encourage applications from First Nations Australians, mature workers, people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, culturally marginalised communities, carers, LGBTIQA+ and people with disability.

RecruitAbility

RecruitAbility applies to this vacancy. If you choose to apply under the scheme, you may be invited to participate in additional assessment activities. Visit the APS RecruitAbility page for more information.

Future Merit Pools

The merit pool from this selection process may be used to fill future ongoing and non‑ongoing vacancies with similar duties for up to 18 months from the advertisement date.

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