Ipswich is a dynamic blend of rich heritage, proud communities, diverse landscapes, and a lively energy all contributing to a region full of liveability and opportunity. It is one of the state's fastest growing cities and one of the oldest provincial cities.

Ipswich City Council contributes to our vibrant and growing region with teams operating across various industries delivering services to the community and creating our vision:

‘Ipswich, a city of opportunity for all. Join us.'

We have a workplace culture built on our values of safety and wellbeing, communication, collaboration, integrity, efficiency, and leadership. Come and join us in shaping the future of the city and its people.

About the role

Join us in delivering significant projects which are instrumental to the growth and good governance of the Ipswich Local Government Area.

As Senior Solicitor you will be part of the Legal Services Branch and responsible for providing specialist advice and representation across planning, environmental law, development assessment, regulatory compliance and enforcement, and a wide spectrum of other practice areas relevant to local government.

Some of your key responsibilities will include:

• Lead the delivery of legal services for critical and sensitive planning and environment matters, including the provision of drafting, advisory support, and the conduct of litigation in the Planning and Environment Court and Court of Appeal
• Assist with the conduct of local laws and regulatory enforcement proceedings
• Advise across administrative and public law matters relating to complex regulatory and policy obligations relevant to local government
• Draft and advise on commercial agreements and contracting matters
• Collaborate with council's diverse business areas to support the delivery of significant projects and initiatives
• Assist with the development of procedure, policy, and governance frameworks to support the delivery of legal services to council

View the position description for more details about the role.

About you

To be successful in this role you will have:

• A degree in Law with a current Queensland practising certificate, and a minimum of 5 years post admission experience
• A strong background in planning and environment law, and a demonstrated ability to provide general legal assistance across a diverse array of public and commercial practice areas
• The ability to provide clear, strategic legal advice in complex matters, and excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Demonstrated negotiation and stakeholder management skills, and ability to form positive working relationships
• An analytical and strategic mindset, and excellent research and statutory interpretation skills.
• Belief in our values of safety and wellbeing, communication, collaboration, integrity, efficiency and leadership.

Appointment to the position will be subject to the conduct of criminal background checks.

About the benefits

This is a permanent full time position with a salary up to $150,892 plus 12.5% superannuation that offers:

• Positive workplace culture: Be part of a team that values positivity, inclusivity and a supportive environment where everyone can thrive
• Genuine flexibility and work/life balance: Enjoy a supportive approach to work/life balance to maintain your well-being while fulfilling your work ambitions
• Diversity and inclusion: Work with a diverse workforce where different ideas and perspectives lead to innovation and better decision making
• Learning and development: Experience ongoing learning, development and career opportunities to enhance your skills, expertise and knowledge of industry trends
• Health and well-being: Access to discounted gym memberships, employee assistance program and special events supporting your physical and mental health
• Leave options: Annual leave with 17.5% leave loading, cultural leave and other leave options

Join us

If you share our values and are passionate about enhancing the quality of life for the Ipswich community, then this could be the role for you.

Please apply online and submit:

• A cover letter of no more than 2 pages describing how your skills and experience will assist in meeting the requirements of this role.
• A resume of no more than 3 pages.

Closing date: 21 September 2025

Please direct any related questions to [email protected].

Pre Employment Screening: Successful applicants must agree to provide information for pre employment screening including referee checks, validation of eligibility to work in Australia, criminal history check and may include heath assessments, validation of qualifications and licences and other screening checks.

Ipswich City Council is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer: We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace by supporting equal opportunities regardless of gender, culture, generation, sexual orientation, or disability. We promote a respectful workplace culture that is free from all forms of harassment, workplace bullying, discrimination, and violence.