Work Type: Ongoing - Full-time or part-time
Salary: $138,631 - $162,076
Grade: VPS 6
Occupation: Legal
Location: Melbourne - CBD and Inner Metro suburbs
Reference: VG/VGSO878
About the VGSO
The Victorian Government Solicitor's Office (VGSO) serves the rule of law exclusively for the State.
The VGSO provides responsive legal services exclusively for the Victorian Government and public sector. Our place within government ensures we are at the centre of legal change, reform and problem-solving. We operate as a service-driven legal professional practice and strive for excellence in this competitive environment. In all aspects of our operations, we aim to role model and live by our values: Responsiveness, Integrity, Insight, Collaboration and Excellence.
About the branch
The Inquiries, Prosecutions and Administrative Law (IPA) branch of the VGSO comprises a number of legal teams that provide specialist legal services and advice to the State in relation to; Regulation, Administrative Law and Disciplinary Reviews, Inquiries and Royal Commissions, litigation on state care, personal injury and negligence claims. The branch is led by the Assistant Victorian Government Solicitor (IPA) and is supported by approximately 60 employees; solicitors and legal support who work within teams.
The branch provides specialist litigation services in matters involving state care, personal injury, and negligence claims. With our civil litigation team primarily handling personal injury claims brought by former wards of the State and other individuals who experienced similar circumstances, including those involving historical institutional abuse.
The Administrative and Regulatory Law teams provide litigation services and legal advice in the following areas; investigations and criminal procedure, merits review of administrative decisions and related court proceedings, business and occupational licensing, conduct reviews, professional disciplinary proceedings and summary prosecutions, freedom of information, information sharing and privacy and integrity body inquiries.
The Inquiries teams provide specialist legal services and legal advice in relation to Inquiries and Royal Commissions including; the establishment of Royal Commissions (exclusive services), management of notices to produce including document review, witness and hearing preparation, briefing and instructing counsel, State submissions and strategic responses, project management and reporting.
About the role
We are seeking an experienced and highly motivated Principal Solicitor to join our State Care and Personal Injuries Team. This is a unique opportunity to provide expert legal services to government clients, manage complex litigation, and mentor a team of talented legal professionals.
Reporting to the Managing Principal Solicitor, your role as a Principal Solicitor will be to deliver specialist legal advice and representation in state care and personal injury matters. You will independently manage a diverse and sensitive caseload, contribute to strategic legal outcomes, and play a strategic and operational leadership role within the team.
In addition to your core litigation and advisory responsibilities, you'll contribute to the development of the team by supervising and mentoring junior solicitors. You'll also have the opportunity to broaden your experience by supporting other legal streams within the branch, ensuring variety and professional growth.
Our team embraces innovation through new technolo gies and fresh approaches to legal service delivery while prioritising professional development in a safe, supportive learning environment with direct access to senior leadership. Located in the vibrant Paris end of the city, our office conveniently surrounded by some of Melbourne's best cafes, restaurants, and cultural spots.
Skills and experience
We're looking for a driven and accomplished legal professional who thrives on complexity and is passionate about delivering exceptional outcomes for government clients. You'll bring:
Benefits
VGSO offers an inclusive, collegiate and collaborative work environment where you will be well-supported and mentored to develop your knowledge. You will also be given excellent career opportunities to progress and develop within the organisation.
VGSO embraces flexibility and recognises the importance of work-life balance. We offer a flexible hybrid work arrangement, allowing employees to spend half of their time working remotely and the other half in the office. This setup encourages collaboration and strengthens team connections, while supporting your ability to achieve a healthy work-life balance.
How to apply
If this sounds like the opportunity for you, apply now!
Click 'Apply Now' to start your application. Applications must include:
Please note it is not a requirement to respond to the Key Selection Criteria separately but applicants should outline their relevant skills/experience and suitability to the role in their cover letter.
To find out more about this role, please view the position description attached. Alternatively, you can contact Kate Miller, Talent Acquisition Business Partner, on 0408 353 909 or email [email protected]
Applications close at 11:59pm on Wednesday, 9 July 2025.
Preferred candidates will be subject to pre-employment checks including but not limited to, reference checks, pre-employment misconduct screening and criminal record checks.