Legal Support Officer - NSW Public Defenders

Location: Darlinghurst NSW 2010
Rate: $45 per hour + super
Hours: 8 hours/day, 40 hours/week
Duration: ASAP start – 24 April 2026
WFH: Not available (on-site role)

About the Role
Join the NSW Public Defenders as a Legal Support Officer, providing high-level administrative and paralegal support to Public Defenders (barristers) and senior staff. You’ll play a vital role as the first point of contact for clients, legal professionals and court representatives — ensuring the smooth day-to-day operation of chambers and enabling Public Defenders to focus on their legal work.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage reception, phone calls, mail, deliveries, and visitor access to the office.
• Coordinate Audio Visual Link (AVL) bookings for court appearances and client contact.
• Provide paralegal support including typing, proofreading, transcribing, printing, and preparing legal briefs.
• Assist with financial administration, IT support, project coordination, and events such as the annual Criminal Law Conference.
• Maintain accurate case records in the CASES management system.
• Arrange travel and accommodation for Public Defenders in line with policy.
• Provide basic troubleshooting and technology support to chambers staff.

About You
You’re a proactive, detail-oriented professional with strong administrative and organisational skills. You enjoy supporting legal teams in a fast-paced environment and are confident managing competing priorities with professionalism and discretion.

Essential:

• Previous experience in a legal, government, or professional services environment.
• Excellent communication, time management, and computer literacy skills.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to handle confidential information appropriately.
• Willingness to undergo Police Check (via Fit2Work) and Reference Checks.

Why Join Us
This is a rare opportunity to contribute to the vital work of the NSW Public Defenders, supporting barristers who provide legal representation to those in need. You’ll gain valuable legal sector experience in a collaborative and respected public law environment.

Apply now to start immediately and support justice in action.