• Temporary part-time – 3 days (24 hours) per week
• 12-month fixed term contract (Maternity Cover)
• $108,554 to $119,737pa pro rata (plus 11.5% super)
• Flexible working arrangements available including flexitime & WFH

Who we are

Surf Coast Shire Council oversees the picturesque region of Surf Coast Shire in Victoria, Australia, striving to ensure the wellbeing and prosperity of its residents and businesses. This includes upholding local laws and regulations, managing essential infrastructure like roads and parks, and providing vital community services such as family and youth programs. Council plays a pivotal role in planning and development, guiding sustainable growth while preserving the region's natural beauty. Council actively supports economic development initiatives, fostering local businesses and promoting tourism to stimulate the local economy.

Council acknowledges the Wadawurrung People, and the Gulidjan and Gadubanud Peoples of the Eastern Maar Nation as the Traditional Owners of the lands we now call Surf Coast Shire.

Your new career
An exciting position is available for an enthusiastic and resourceful Lawyer to join Council’s Integrity and Governance Department on a 12-month contract. You will work under the guidance of the Coordinator of Legal and Property, an experienced senior lawyer as part of a friendly and supportive team.

The core focus of this role will be to efficiently manage complex and sensitive litigation or potentially litigious matters and provide operational advice and representation to Council in all jurisdictions, including alternative dispute resolution. You will also provide support to other streams of work undertaken by the legal services unit.

What you will bring to the role
We are currently looking for a motivated and solutions focussed person to support and guide Council employees in their roles in a positive and compassionate manner.

To be successful in this role you will have:

• The ability to review, manage and conduct complex and sensitive proceedings in state courts and tribunals, including a sound knowledge of relevant court practice and procedures.
• Proven ability to provide practical and client focused oral and written advice on complex and sensitive matters and carry out complex legal research and analysis.
• Good interpersonal communication skills to work with and advise members of Council.
• Proven ability to effectively manage competing priorities, within a fast-paced dynamic environment.
• A strong focus on turnaround time and ability to work under pressure.

Key selection criteria
Mandatory qualifications, experience and requirements

• Tertiary qualifications in Law (qualification check conducted).
• Admitted to practice Law in the state of Victoria and hold a current practicing certificate with at least 2 years post-admission experience.
• Legal experience across a broad range of legal issues relevant to Local Government and litigation practice, and a thorough understanding of the Local Government legal and litigation environment.
• Outstanding communication skills, both verbal and written, including the ability to successfully negotiate, influence and resolve complex issues.
• Solid knowledge of relevant legislation, policies and practices related to legal practice inclusive of OH&S obligations.
• Proven interpersonal skills with experience in dealing effectively with a diverse range of stakeholders within a complex organisation.
• A current Working With Children Check
• You have the permanent right to live and work in Australia
• Police Check results that are suitable for this position (will be arranged by Surf Coast Shire Council).
  A complete international criminal history check is required if the person has worked or lived overseas for any period of time OR a complete national criminal history check is required if the person has only ever worked in Australia.

Desirable qualifications and experience

• Post-graduate qualification in law
• Experience in a Local Government environment
• Experience in advising and advocating on matters pertaining to the Planning and Environment Act 1987 (Vic), Building Act 1993 (Vic) and under local laws made pursuant to the Local Government Act 2020 (Vic).

What you’ll love working with us
Council embraces diversity and social inclusion and encourages applications from skilled people from all walks of life.

We recognise that our employees play a vital role in creating an innovative, safe, respectful and supportive workplace, living our values and delivering exceptional services to our thriving community. Our shire spans the Traditional Lands of the Wadawurrung People and the Gulidjan and Gadabanud Peoples of the Eastern Maar Nation. Council is committed to providing a workplace culture of equity, inclusion and diversity that eliminates all forms of discrimination, harassment and bullying.

There are numerous social activities throughout the year available as well as the benefits of:

• Flexible working arrangements including working from home and flexi time options,
• Employee Assistance Program and award-winning staff wellbeing program
• Career development and learning opportunities, we help our people grow
• Purchase of additional annual leave
• Free onsite parking

For more information
More information on the role accountabilities and the key selection criteria can be found in the position description here.

If you believe you have the knowledge, skills and experience to fulfil this role and would like further information, please contact Heidi Mellar, Coordinator Legal and Property on 5261 0600.

How to apply
Applications are to be in Word or PDF format and should include a:

• cover letter including your statement addressing the selection criteria
• copy of your resume.

Please note that only applications with a statement addressing the selection criteria will be considered for this position.

Simply complete the application process by clicking the "Apply Now" button and we'll be in touch with you shortly regarding your application.

Applications close at 11.59pm Sunday 13 July 2025.

Surf Coast Shire Council is an equal opportunity and child safe employer.