The Australian Human Rights Commission (the Commission) is Australia's national human rights institution, dedicated to fostering a society where human rights are upheld, protected, and celebrated. We envision an Australia where every individual is valued equally in dignity and rights. Our mission involves promoting and safeguarding the human rights of all Australians by: Advising all levels of government and various public and private organisations. Strengthening laws, policies, and practices while providing accessible investigation and conciliation services. Engaging inclusively with civil society, communities, and the private sector. Raising awareness about human rights and offering educational resources. Collaborating with partners to cultivate a culture of respect for human rights across the nation. Our Legal Division is a small, dynamic team that provides the services of in-house counsel to the Commission. Our lawyers give high level legal advice on a range of issues including human rights and anti-discrimination law, and commercial issues such as contracts and tender processes. We also represent the Commission in external litigation, including as intervener in human rights and unlawful discrimination proceedings. We are looking for an experienced strategic leader to join us, providing expert in-house legal and risk management advice and support to the President (who is the Accountable Authority), the Chief Executive and all Commission Officials. As a key member of the Commission's Senior Leadership Team, you will contribute to high level decision-making, advice and leadership across all aspects of the Commission's work. You will actively participate in the Commission's governance committees and lead both the Legal and Positive Duty teams. This full-time, ongoing position offers a competitive negotiable EL2 base salary $163,754 with additional salary determination within a range of $30K to $60K depending on skills, expertise and experience plus 15.4% superannuation. We offer flexible and hybrid work options. The key duties of the position include What You'll Do: Lead and manage the Legal Team which provides legal advice to the Commission and conducts litigation on behalf of the Commission, including intervening in court cases. Supervise the legal services provided by the Legal Team to ensure quality, accuracy and compliance with professional standards. Lead and manage the Positive Duty Team which conducts regulatory functions for the positive duty in the Sex Discrimination Act 1984 (Cth). Manage the Legal Division budget, staffing and financial matters. Contribute to the strategic leadership of the Commission as part of the Senior Leadership Team. Perform the role of Chief Risk Officer. Lead and manage the Legal Team in assessing exemption applications made under relevant discrimination laws and conducting investigations and writing reports for human rights and discrimination complaints made under the Australian Human Rights Commission 1986 (Cth). Represent the Commission at meetings, in Parliamentary Committees and in court, as appropriate and required.
