Senior Principal Lawyer

Senior Principal Lawyer – Workplace Law (SO)

• Lead on high-profile and complex workplace law/discrimination/human rights matters of State significance
• One of Queensland's largest specialist workplace teams with diverse expertise
• Flexible work, lower billable hours, and a culture that protects balance

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 acts for Queensland Government departments, agencies, statutory bodies and government-owned corporations in some of the most significant and challenging workplace law/discrimination/human rights matters in the State.

The team brings together professionals from top-tier and national firms, government, industry, and long-standing Crown Law practitioners. Their work spans:

• Advising and representing the State in relation to complex and significant discrimination/human rights proceedings, across State and Federal jurisdictions, including class actions;
• Advising and representing the State in all types of industrial applications and disputes, including significant applications regarding State entities' enterprise bargaining processes;
• Assisting the State, as an employer, resolve complex employee management issues, including regarding discipline and ill employees;
• Advising and representing the State in respect of employees' statutory workers' compensation applications;
• Assisting the State resolve issues concerning executive appointments and terminations; and
• Advising the State on all aspects of public sector employment law and discrimination.

Your New Role
As a Senior Principal Lawyer, you will provide authoritative advice and representation across a wide range of discrimination, employment and industrial relations matters. You will work closely with the Assistant Crown Solicitor and play a leadership role within the team, ensuring the delivery of high-quality legal services while contributing to the strategic direction of the practice.

Key Responsibilities

• Deliver superior, expert legal advice to Queensland Government clients across the full spectrum of workplace and discrimination law.
• Represent the State in high-profile and complex matters, in State and Federal courts, tribunals and commissions.
• Supervise and mentor junior lawyers, building capability and confidence within the team.
• Deputise for the Assistant Crown Solicitor and support the management of team operations, including staff development, recruitment, and financial performance.
• Build Crown Law's client relationships through proactive engagement, training, and thought leadership.
• Contribute to office-wide initiatives that enhance systems, practices, and business performance.

Your Skills Profile

• At least 8 years' post-admission experience with a strong background in employment, industrial relations, and discrimination law.
• Demonstrated expertise in managing complex, sensitive and strategic matters with minimal supervision.
• Proven ability to provide clear, authoritative advice at senior levels, including for Ministerial or Cabinet consideration.
• Strong advocacy, drafting and advisory skills, including experience in significant court or tribunal proceedings.
• Demonstrated leadership skills, with experience supervising and developing junior lawyers.
• We welcome applications from lawyers currently working in employee-focused firms who are interested in transitioning into employer-side work.

Culture & Benefits
Reflecting the rich diversity of Queensland, Crown Law brings together people from all backgrounds, First Nations, migrant communities and beyond. Crown Law offers a rare blend of impactful legal work and a supportive culture that helps careers thrive. Benefits include:

• Flexible work options (part-time/WFH)
• A realistic approach to billable hours—lower than private practice expectationsand a team culture that protects balance;
• Leave loading + 12.5% super;
• Generous parental leave after 12 months and pro rata long service leave after seven years;

Applications will remain current for 12 months.