Principal Lawyer

Principal Lawyer – Workplace Law (PO6)

• Provide expert advice and representation on complex industrial and employment matters.
• Join a 40-strong workplace law team handling cases rarely seen in private practice.
• Lower billable hours, flexible work, and a supportive culture of collaboration.

Your New Workplace
Crown Law is the in-house law firm for the Queensland Government dedicated to supporting the State in achieving its priorities and meeting its legal obligations. At Crown Law, you will be part of a talented and purpose-driven team, working on some of the most novel and complex matters in the public sector—work that helps shape the future of Queensland. With opportunities for meaningful work, mentorship and long-term development, it's a unique and rewarding place to grow.

Your New Team
The Workplace Law team is one of the largest specialist workplace law practices in Queensland, with about 40 people across legal, paralegal and secretarial roles. The team is a blend of professionals from top-tier and national firms, government, industry and long-standing Crown Law employees, creating a rich mix of expertise and perspectives.

The practice regularly handles significant matters involving employment, industrial relations and discrimination law issues. Recent matters have included defending novel representative discrimination complaints on points of law not previously considered by a court or tribunal, complex general protections matters including those involving senior executives; and representing the State in industrial bargaining disputes.

Your New Role
As a Principal Lawyer, you will play a pivotal role in the delivery of expert legal services and act as a trusted adviser on complex workplace law matters. You will also provide supervision and guidance to junior lawyers, ensuring the continued development of capability within the team.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide authoritative advice and representation on employment, industrial and discrimination matters.
• Appear in and instruct counsel on significant hearings and appeals.
• Support and mentor junior lawyers in the conduct of complex matters.
• Develop strong client relationships and contribute to Crown Law's reputation as a trusted adviser.
• Contribute to the promotion of Crown Law's services through training, publications, and client engagement.
• Ensure work is delivered to the highest professional standard and in accordance with client service commitments.

Your Skills Profile

• At least 6 years' post-admission experience in employment, industrial relations and discrimination law.
• Strong record of advising on and managing complex workplace law matters.
• Excellent drafting and advocacy skills, with experience in tribunal or court proceedings.
• Proven ability to supervise and guide junior lawyers.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication, with the ability to provide clear advice to senior stakeholders.
• We welcome applications from lawyers who have worked in employee-focused practices and want to move into employer-side advisory and litigation work.

Culture & Benefits
Reflecting the rich diversity of Queensland, Crown Law brings together people from all backgrounds, First Nations, migrant communities and beyond. With a strong focus on inclusion, collaboration and professional growth, Crown Law offers a rare blend of impactful legal work and a supportive culture that helps careers thrive.

Some Of The Benefits Include

• Flexible working arrangements including part-time and work from home.
• Billable hour requirements are lower than in private practice.
• A balanced culture where lawyers are encouraged to work within their set hours and the team actively manages capacity to protect wellbeing.
• Leave loading + 12.5% superannuation.
• Generous parental leave after 12 months and long service leave after seven years.
• Discount corporate private health insurance.
• Corporate health and wellbeing program.
• Family and lifestyle friendly leave including an additional day during Christmas

shutdown.

• EAP and counselling support; and
• Salary packaging options also available.

Applications to remain current for 12 months.