Purpose of Position

Legal associates assist with researching cases, points of law, preparing matters for hearing including other related matters for first instance judges and of the Court. Legal associates are responsible for providing assistance to judicial officers during court hearings and other administrative support to judges, as required. In addition, legal associates perform court support duties.

Legal associates primarily provide assistance to designated judges but may be asked to assist other judges if the need arises. Some travel may be required.

Key Responsibilities and Duties

The occupant of this position:

• Provides research assistance to judicial officers.
• Assists judicial officers with the management of cases and, if required, enters data into the Court’s case management system.
• Assists with the preparation of matters for both the Court and the Judge, with the Judge’s judgment writing as required including head notes, catch wording, and editing in line with the Court’s judgments publication standards.
• Undertakes judicial associate and client service (court officer) duties and provides assistance by updating chambers loose leaf series.
• Assists with the general operation of chambers, when required.

Selection Criteria

1. Ability to undertake research (including on-line research) and prepare reports and written correspondence.
2. Sound organisational skills including the ability to manage priorities, meet deadlines and work effectively under pressure in a team environment.
3. Well-developed interpersonal skills including tact, discretion, initiative and the ability to communicate effectively with members of the judiciary, the legal profession, the public and other court staff.
4. Ability to operate computer-based equipment and associated word processing and other software.
5. Knowledge, or ability to acquire knowledge, of Family Court functions, the organisation, practices, procedures and terminology.

Eligibility

Employment with the Court is subject to the conditions prescribed in the Public Service Act 1999, and the following:

1. Australian citizenship – the successful applicant must hold Australian citizenship.
2. Security and character clearance – the successful applicant must satisfy a Police Records Check, and may also be required to complete security clearances during the course of their employment.
3. Successful applicants engaged into the APS will be subject to a probation period.

Interested candidates who have received a redundancy benefit from an APS agency are welcome to apply, but note that they cannot be engaged until their redundancy benefit period has expired.

Diversity and Inclusion

Federal Court Australia is committed to supporting an inclusive and diverse workforce and welcomes and encourages applications from People with Disability. First Nations peoples, LGBTIQA+ people, people from Culturally and Linguistically Diverse backgrounds, Mature age workers, as well as young workers and supporting an inter-generational workforce and supporting gender equity and families.

Federal Court Australia will provide reasonable adjustments for candidates to participate equitably in the recruitment process and discuss workplace adjustments to fulfil the inherent requirements of the role.

RecruitAbility

RecruitAbility applies to this vacancy. Under the RecruitAbility scheme you will be invited to participate in further assessment activity for the vacancy if you choose to apply under the scheme; declare you have a disability; and meet the minimum requirements for the job. For more information visit: https://www.apsc.gov.au/recruitability

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are strongly encouraged to apply.

How to apply

As part of your application, you will be required to submit a written response to the selection criteria listed in the position description (maximum word limit 1500). Please ensure this document is attached before submitting your application.

Contact Officer

For any further questions, please contact Michelle Thornley at 0280 672 252 or [email protected].