Title:  Managing Principal Lawyer, Bus, Tram and Road

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 

The Managing Principal Lawyer, Bus, Tram and Road, leads a legal team providing expert, commercially focused advice on tram and bus contracts, road management, and major transport infrastructure. The role supports the Director Legal, Road and Transport Operations mentor lawyers, and helps deliver the Department’s strategic objectives through high-quality legal services.

Working with internal and external stakeholders, the role manages complex legal matters, oversees external legal advisors, drafts key legal and government documents, identifies emerging legal risks, and provides strategic advice to support major transport operations and infrastructure projects across Victoria.
 

What we’re looking for (Selection Criteria) 

You’re someone who: 

• Thinks critically and solves complex legal problems and delivers practical, outcome-focused solutions.
• Leads and manages people effectively, fostering accountability, engagement, performance and alignment with public sector values.
• Builds strong stakeholder relationships, understanding needs, influencing outcomes and creating collaborative, mutually beneficial partnerships.
• Communicates and influences effectively, gaining support for ideas, navigating complex environments and driving alignment across diverse groups.
• Provides expert legal advice on complex commercial law issues.

Click here to access the Position Description. 

Qualifications and experience 

You’ll bring: 

• Admission as a lawyer in Victoria and eligibility to hold a Victorian practising certificate. (mandatory)
• At least 8 years’ post-qualification legal experience. (desirable)
• Experience in private practice or in-house roles, ideally involving commercial agreements, PPPs or major infrastructure. (desirable)

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, 24th July 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 Oscar Bear, Director Legal, Road and Transport Operations at oscar.bear@transport.vic.gov.au.

Redeployees

If you are a VPS redeployee, please state this in your cover letter and include your case manager’s contact details. This helps ensure your redeployment status is appropriately considered. For more information on redeployment, visit the Victorian Government policy. 

Important Information

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