ABOUT US

The Australian Manufacturing Workers' Union (AMWU) represents workers in the metals trades, printing, paper industry, vehicle industry, food and confectionery industry, as well as technical trades and professions.

We are driven by our values. We are democratic, inclusive, fair and respectful; we do what we say; and we work strategically, standing together as one to deliver outcomes for members.

With a rich history and commitment to social justice, we pride ourselves on bold member-led campaigns that effect real change and build workers’ power.

The AMWU is committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace. We strongly encourage applications from First Nations people, women, people with disability, people from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds, and LGBTIQ+ people.

ROLE STATEMENT

This role sits within the National Research Centre (NRC), the AMWU’s think tank and hub for strategic litigation. Here, bold legal strategies drive lasting reforms that improve the lives of working Australians.

The NRC works closely with AMWU officials and members, providing insightful research and legal expertise to help secure better pay, conditions, and workplace rights. As a lead legal strategist within the NRC, you will develop and pursue impactful cases that resolve disputes and help shape the future direction of workers’ rights in this country.

This is a time of tremendous challenge, change, and opportunity for AMWU members. Industries are transforming, workplaces are under pressure, and workers are organising to fight back and win a fairer future, not just for themselves, but for their communities.

This role offers a unique opportunity to be more than a lawyer. It’s a chance to become a key thinker and leader within the movement, to craft a legal agenda for the AMWU and the broader union movement, and to use strategic litigation to help drive progressive reforms from the ground up.

Reporting to the National Senior Legal Officer and National Coordinator of Legal and Research, you will provide expert legal advice, clear and accessible briefings, and forward-thinking proposals. You will manage cases strategically, not just to resolve disputes, but to pursue decisions that empower workers, advance their rights, and set powerful legal precedents.

The role also provides a valuable opportunity to broaden and deepen your expertise, take on greater responsibilities, and grow within a team that plays a key role in shaping the future of workers’ rights. It’s a chance to make a lasting contribution, while developing your skills and strengthening your profile as a leader in the field.

If you want to help shape a progressive future for workers and their communities, and use your legal expertise to make a real and lasting impact, this is your opportunity to lead from the front.

KEY RELATIONSHIPS

This position reports directly to the National Coordinator of Legal and Research.

Other key relationships include National and State Secretaries, National and State Officers and Officials.

KEY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

· Advocate in contested hearings and arbitrations in industrial tribunals.

· Instruct Counsel, working closely with them to prepare and execute legal strategies.

· Appear in small claims matters within relevant Courts and in preliminary Court hearings for larger matters.

· Prepare submissions and advocate for the Union’s position in government and Fair Work Commission reviews, consultations, and enquiries.

· Identify and capitalise on industrial and legal opportunities that support Union organising, social, or political campaigns.

· Mentor junior Industrial/Legal Officers (IO/LOs) and Assistant Research Officers, offering guidance in case management, legal processes, and professional development.

· Assist and advise in enterprise bargaining negotiations and related legal tasks.

In addition to these activities, from time to time you may be asked to undertake tasks that are outside your usual span of duties but that are within your capabilities. Working collaboratively and supporting one another is an integral part of the AMWU’s positive workplace culture.

Decisions, actions and behaviours are governed by our Code of Conduct and our Union Culture Charter and the delivery of our services to our members is aligned to the commitments outlined in our Strategic Plan and Operational Plan. All employees have accountability to ensure work and conduct is aligned with these.

FRAUD AND CORRUPTION PREVENTION

The Union constantly strives to improve our practices to ensure we uphold the highest ethical standards. The AMWU has a zero-tolerance approach to any fraud, corruption or misconduct, and all staff are required to report any potential fraud, corruption or misconduct in accordance with the union’s Whistleblower Policy. The National Executive Officer has a key role in ensuring compliance with these policies and legislative requirements.

WORK HEALTH AND SAFETY

In accordance with the AMWU’s WHS Policy, all employees have a responsibility to take reasonable care of their own health and safety, and that of others. To meet this commitment, all levels of management shall be held responsible for ensuring all staff are aware of and have agreed to work to this policy.

UNION POLICIES

The Union is governed by our Union Rules and various legislation. Internal policies, procedures and principles have been adopted to ensure transparency, accountability, good governance, acceptable behaviour and guidance for decision making. All employees must work in accordance with these policies and procedures.

SALARY AND CONDITIONS:

· The salary for this role starts at Officer 6 of our salary structure, currently $113,620.23. With scheduled pay increases and service increments, this will increase to $121,756.80 after 12 months of service.

· Opportunity to work with passionate advocates for workers’ rights.

· A dynamic and supportive work environment.

· Generous working conditions including:

o Monthly RDO

o 13% superannuation

o Salary sacrifice. The opportunity to receive an additional 2% superannuation contribution when you make a qualifying salary sacrifice.

o 17.5% annual leave loading (pro rata basis)

o Hybrid work from home / office model

o Additional Christmas shutdown leave

SELECTION CRITERIA (ABIILITIES, QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE)

Essential

· Demonstrated commitment to union values and principles.

· Two or more years post-admission experience as a Legal Officer or equivalent in an industrial relations/legal environment.

· Experience providing advice on industrial and legal matters, including discipline, redundancy, performance management, and return to work issues.

· Strong background in analysing, interpreting, and advising on industrial legislation and agreements, and drafting complex legal documents.

· Practical experience in representing clients in industrial tribunals and courts, both in procedural hearings and contested cases.

· Extensive experience managing case files, meeting deadlines, and ensuring compliance with Tribunal and Court Orders.

· In-depth understanding of enterprise bargaining and supporting Union interests through legal channels.

· Demonstrated ability to deliver results working to deadlines, under minimal supervision and managing multiple tasks and stakeholders.

· Excellent communication skills including written and oral communication for a wide range of audiences and formats.

· Demonstrated ability to work effectively within a team and with diverse stakeholders.

Desirable

· Experience in a union or member-based organisation.

· Familiarity with political relationships with key government offices and departments.

TO APPLY

Send your resume and a cover letter addressing the selection criteria by 10 July 2025 to [email protected]

For any enquiries, please contact Joshua Newton at [email protected]