Legal Counsel

The Role:

We are looking for an in-house Legal Counsel to work in our Standards and Legal team on a 2-year fixed term contract basis from the office located in Alphington. This team provides all legal services to the Institute across Australia and Papua New Guinea and provides timely and quality advice, compliance resources and other advisory services.

The Legal Counsel role will primarily work in historical claims management, litigation, mediation and oversight of the settlement of claims and related processes. This role provides an excellent opportunity to develop a General Counsel skillset, providing experience across general legal services, support of major projects and building senior stakeholder relationships.

The role will:

• act as primary advisor on claims of historical child abuse, including litigation, mediation, settlement procedures, redress scheme responses and related issues
• manage and instruct external lawyers and independent medical experts in the assessment and resolution of claims
• represent the Institute in mediations and settlement conferences, at all times displaying a pastoral and compassionate attitude to survivors and their advisors
• provide legal advice directly to senior management on legislation, legal issues and other support as required
• prepare and negotiate contracts and review legal arrangements in place across a range of operations

Role requirements:

• Admission to practice and current practicing certificate
• Demonstrated experience in claims management with minimum 5 years PQE ideally within a legal practice
• Highly developed interpersonal, written and verbal communication skills
• Strong legal drafting and research skills
• Excellent negotiation skills and ability to work to agreed outcomes and deadlines
• Self-motivated with the ability to work with others in various disciplines
• Ability to work autonomously and effectively manage competing work priorities
• Interstate travel may be required

Experience in a not-for-profit environment is advantageous but not essential.   Candidates with skills in insurance, personal injury claims and litigation experience across multiple states are particularly encouraged to apply.  This role will appeal to those wanting to move to an in-house role and be part of a committed and skilled team within a very broad organisation with activities across health, aged care, education and community services. 

This is a 2 year fixed term, full-time position and offers a salary commensurate with experience. 

ISMAPNG is committed to creating a culture of safety and respect for all, including prioritising the safety and best interests of all children and vulnerable adults with whom we have contact. All staff are expected to take all reasonable steps to ensure the protection of children and vulnerable adults and to comply with our safeguarding policies and procedures, including responding to and reporting all suspicions and allegations of abuse.