Title:  General Counsel

About Us 

We create thriving places and connected communities. We plan, build and maintain Victoria’s transport, planning and land services. We are committed to a safe, inclusive and high-performing workplace. 

We welcome applicants from diverse backgrounds and are committed to creating a safe, inclusive workplace where our people can thrive and do meaningful work. 
  

About the role 

This is a Fixed Term Position (Executive contract up to 5 years)

The General Counsel leads the Legal Division and is the Department’s most senior legal adviser. They provide clear and practical legal advice to Ministers, executives and business areas to support Government priorities and manage legal risk. The role leads teams across public law, commercial matters, litigation, legislation and information access, while building strong relationships with key government and legal stakeholders. They influence decision-making across the Department and help create consistent, efficient and high-quality legal services.

Success in this role strengthens legal governance, supports effective delivery of major priorities and builds trust across government.

What we’re looking for (Selection Criteria) 

You’re someone who:

• Enjoys building strong relationships and working collaboratively across teams, government and external stakeholders to achieve shared outcomes.
• Can provide strategic leadership, guide organisations through change and adapt quickly to shifting priorities and challenges.
• Enjoys leading and developing people by creating a positive, inclusive and high-performing culture that supports growth and continuous improvement.
• Can confidently manage complex issues, make sound decisions and remain resilient during uncertainty, while supporting others through change.
• Can drive organisational performance by managing resources effectively, improving ways of working and delivering strong outcomes for Victorians.

Click here to access the Position Description. 

Qualifications and experience 

You’ll bring: 

Mandatory

• Admission to practice as an Australian Legal Practitioner in Victoria, holding (or eligible to hold) an unrestricted practising certificate.
• Extensive legal experience with expertise across areas relevant to government, such as public law, commercial law and litigation
• Strong understanding of legislative and regulatory reform processes
• Strong understanding of Victorian Government legal, legislative and governance frameworks and processes.
• Demonstrated ability to provide clear, authoritative and strategic legal advice to senior executives and Ministers on complex and high-risk matters.
• Excellent communication and negotiation skills, with the ability to convey complex legal issues succinctly and influence diverse stakeholders.

Desirable

• Experience operating within the Victorian Public Sector or comparable government jurisdiction.
• Experience leading significant legislative or regulatory reform initiatives.
• Experience advising on major transport, planning, infrastructure or commercial projects.

Pre-employment checks and employment conditions  

Relevant pre-employment screening and reference checks will be required. 

Applicants must be an Australian Citizen, Permanent Resident or hold a valid work permit or visa necessary for the nature of the position. 

Recipients of Victorian Public Service (VPS) voluntary departure packages should note that re-employment restrictions apply. 

How to apply 

Click the ‘Apply’ button to be redirected to our recruitment platform, where you may need to create an account to submit your application. 

Applications close at 11.59pm on Friday, 12th June 2026.

Please include both your resume and a cover letter addressing how your experience addresses each of the key selection criteria for the role. All applications must be submitted via the online portal, we’re unable to accept email or manual submissions. 

For further information about the role, please contact Jacinda de Witts via Sabrina Yacoub - Executive Assistant, Sabrina.yacoub@transport.vic.gov.au. 

Important Information 

If you require any adjustments to fully participate in the recruitment process or need the advert or attachments in an accessible format (e.g., large print), please contact us. We're here to support you.