Director, Legal

Job Description

The Office of the Inspector-General of Intelligence and Security (IGIS) is central to the independent oversight of the Australian intelligence and security agencies. The Inspector‑General is an independent statutory office holder with oversight of the activities of Australia’s intelligence and security agencies to ensure they act legally and with propriety, comply with ministerial guidelines and directives, and respect human rights. The work of the Inspector-General and his staff provides assurance to ministers, the parliament and the public that these agencies are using their powers as intended.

We are a small portfolio agency, proud of our contribution to the national interest. We recognise that our people are our greatest asset – we recruit and retain highly capable, motivated professionals with high levels of integrity and personal drive; and we invest in, and value, their development. Further, we offer a rewarding, positive, and inclusive environment, empowering staff to work flexibly in their contribution to the achievement of agency goals.

The Director, Legal, is an experienced legal officer who plays a critical role in managing the IGIS’ legal practice to meet organisation and strategic objectives. As a senior leader, the Director Legal provides strategic advice and direction, translates strategy into operational goals and engages peers and team members to deliver service excellence and continuous improvement. Director Legal is responsible for supervising two work streams within the Legal team: Legal Advising and Legislation & Legal Policy.

Essential requirements

• the ability to obtain and maintain a Top-Secret Positive Vetting clearance
• a degree in law from an Australian university, or a comparable overseas degree which is recognised in Australia for admission to practice
• a practicing certificate, or eligibility to hold a practicing certificate, in the ACT.
• admission on the roll of an Australian State or Territory Supreme Court, or of the High Court of Australia
• a minimum of six years Post Admission Experience

Desirable skills

• a highly developed understanding of national security and intelligence legislative frameworks
• strong understanding of the legislative process, including Cabinet and Parliamentary processes.

To be successful in this role you will have:

• experience in providing legal advice, especially in the context of statutory interpretation and/or administrative law
• experience in legislation reform and review, including considering new policy proposals and/or experience providing legal advice in a regulatory or investigative environment in support of investigations or other compliance activity
• a demonstrated ability to guide, mentor and develop team members
• high-level management skills, to manage a complex work load and lead a small team with two different work streams
• a desire to work in a productive, values-driven organisation and to achieve results
• a positive attitude, energy and commitment to the objectives of the IGIS
• the ability to conduct thorough legal research and have excellent familiarity with legal research tools and resources
• a collaborative and respectful approach to all aspects of your work
• the ability to conduct your work in an organised and flexible manner
• a demonstrated ability to exercise sound judgment, show initiative and work effectively in a small team
• a demonstrated ability to work in a highly sensitive workplace and to resolve complex problems
• an aptitude for relationship building, and the ability to influence and build relationships with senior executives and a network of stakeholders
• strong interpersonal skills, including excellent written and verbal communication

Why work for us?

We support and encourage flexible work practices and policies to enable a work-life balance where you thrive at work, and at home. Whilst the suitable candidate must be located in Canberra, the IGIS supports hybrid working arrangements where possible given our remit. We are committed to exploring and enabling flexible working arrangements that provide genuine support for those with carer responsibilities and those seeking a balanced wellbeing and home life. At the IGIS we know that a balanced arrangement brings out the best in our team. We embrace diversity and offer a range of benefits and entitlements, including generous leave entitlements and access to study assistance.

Security, suitability and integrity requirements

Positions at IGIS are positions of trust. Appointment to our Office depends on the outcome of an employment suitability assessment. Appointment and ongoing employment at the Office are subject to a Positive Vetting clearance being granted and maintained. Security vetting may take many months to complete and requires candidates to provide significant personal information to the vetting authority. In addition, all IGIS staff are required to make annual conflict of interest declarations to ensure the independence and integrity of the Office. You must be an Australian citizen with a checkable background, and you must be willing to undergo a comprehensive security clearance suitability assessment.

For further information, please review the Candidate Information Kit.

How to apply

Applicants are required to apply using the webform on the IGIS website by Sunday 18 May 2025 at 11:30pm AEST.