Freedom of Information/Administrative Lawyer (Federal Government Role)

Allygroup is seeking an experienced administrative lawyer for a secondment opportunity with an Australian Government Department. This role will provide specialist legal support to the Department’s Freedom of Information (FOI) Section, commencing as soon as practicable and continuing through to 30 June 2026, with the possibility of further extensions.

The successful candidate will bring strong FOI expertise, work closely with internal stakeholders, and play a key role in managing FOI matters and Information Commissioner reviews.

This position is located in Canberra or Melbourne. Candidates who can attend the client’s Canberra or Melbourne office in person four to five days per week are strongly preferred. Flexible and fully remote secondment arrangements may be considered on a case-by-case basis.

Key responsibilities

  • Assisting with the processing of FOI requests and internal reviews

  • Drafting correspondence to FOI applicants and external stakeholders, including consultation notices

  • Reviewing and assessing documents relevant to FOI requests and applying exemptions where appropriate

  • Marking up documents and preparing schedules of documents

  • Drafting FOI decision letters

  • Assisting with the management of Information Commissioner reviews, complaints and investigations

  • Drafting submissions for Information Commissioner matters and liaising with instructing areas

  • Corresponding with applicants and stakeholders throughout review processes

  • Proactively reviewing historical Information Commissioner review matters and drafting updated submissions where required

About you

To be successful in this role, you will have:

  • Five or more years of post-admission experience in administrative law

  • Demonstrated experience working with the FOI legal framework

  • Strong written and verbal communication skills

  • The ability to manage competing priorities in a high-volume environment

  • Sound judgement and a high level of attention to detail

How to apply

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

Applications for this position close at 11:59 pm on Monday, 23 March 2026. Applications received after the closing date may be considered for similar future opportunities.