Senior Government Lawyer - Digital Identification

Allygroup is seeking an experienced Lawyer for a secondment opportunity to support one of the largest Australian Government legal divisions. This position is offered as an initial three‑month contract, with the possibility of a further three‑month extension.

This role is open to multiple locations including Canberra (ACT), Brisbane (QLD), Melbourne (VIC), Sydney (NSW).

What We’re Looking For:

  • Taking carriage of complex legal matters, working independently and escalating issues where appropriate.

  • Drafting legal advice, guidance materials and other supporting documentation as required.

  • Engaging proactively with clients in an agile project environment, including participating in iterative project discussions and responding to emerging needs.

  • Working collaboratively as part of a team of lawyers.

  • Providing guidance, support and informal supervision to more junior staff.

  • Supporting DGC/EL2‑equivalent lawyers with matter management and strategic oversight.

  • Advising on a broad range of issues including:

    • Secrecy provisions

    • Privacy assurance processes (such as Privacy Threshold Assessments and Privacy Impact Assessments)

    • Application of the Privacy Act 1988

    • Application of the Digital ID Act 2024  and associated frameworks

    • Tech and AI considerations

    • Governance application and drafting

    • Statutory interpretation

Duties and Responsibilities

May include some or all of the following:

  • Provide high‑level, specialist legal advice on complex and/or sensitive matters to a range of stakeholders, including the Minister and the agency’s Executive.

  • Lead and manage team members, including responsibility for performance management, attendance, and supporting health and wellbeing.

  • Build staff capability through coaching, mentoring and structured succession planning.

  • Manage a diverse caseload of legal matters, including those that are sensitive or high risk.

  • Deliver detailed, specialist legal and practical input into the development of agency policies, processes and procedures.

  • Prepare and review written materials, including briefs to external legal providers, and provide instructions throughout legal proceedings.

  • Draft complex and/or sensitive legal submissions, court documents and formal correspondence.

  • Identify, assess and report emerging and existing legal risks across the department, and escalate issues to senior leadership as required.

  • Develop, maintain and manage effective relationships with a wide range of internal and external stakeholders.

  • Represent the department or work area at external and cross‑agency forums, including conferences, seminars and consultative meetings.

  • Analyse, review and evaluate legal information to support projects, reforms and new business initiatives.

  • Oversee quality assurance activities and promote high‑quality, well‑reasoned decision‑making across the work area.

  • Contribute to the development and implementation of strategies, operational policies, procedures and organisational change initiatives.

  • Support innovation, lead and manage change, and play a significant role in business improvement efforts.

  • Appear on behalf of the department before courts and tribunals in significant and/or complex matters, and exercise delegations in accordance with relevant legislation and guidelines.

What we offer

  • Impactful Work: Contribute to maintaining high standards of integrity and transparency.

  • Professional Growth: Opportunities for learning and career development.

  • Supportive Environment: Work within a collaborative and experienced legal team.

  • Attractive Remuneration: Competitive salary package.

What you need to do now

To apply, click the ‘Apply Now’ button below or send a current resume and cover letter to our team at recruitment@allygroup.com.au expressing your interest in this opportunity. For a confidential talk in relation to this position, please call us on 02 5104 3170. You may also contact our office via phone or email to arrange a Video Relay call or other call services through The National Relay Service. Plain, large font copies of this ad (and related position description/s) may also be requested by emailing recruitment@allygroup.com.au