Principal Lawyer - Native Title Litigation

Position Overview

Join the Queensland Government as a Principal Lawyer specializing in Federal Court native title litigation. This role offers the opportunity to handle cases with full responsibility, contributing decisively to how native title issues are managed statewide. Work within an established, experienced team at Crown Law, the Government's in-house legal firm, renowned for providing expert legal guidance and representation.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead native title litigation in the Federal Court from inception through to resolution.
• Manage complex legal matters involving native title determinations and compensation claims for the State of Queensland.
• Provide expert advice on evidentiary and connection requirements under the Native Title Act and related legislation.
• Negotiate Indigenous Land Use Agreements and settlements on behalf of the State.
• Undertake advanced statutory interpretation across native title and Queensland land law, often navigating uncharted legal areas.
• Mentor and support junior lawyers within the team, fostering their professional development even without formal managerial duties.

About You

• Possess over five years of post-admission experience in litigation, especially in native title or closely related fields such as commercial, property, planning, or public law litigation.
• Demonstrate strong command of Federal and High Court procedural rules with the ability to manage complicated statutory issues.
• Exhibit advanced advocacy and drafting aptitudes suited to complex or sensitive legal matters.
• Show resilience and sound judgment when resolving sensitive or challenging subject matter.
• Motivated by the impact of legal work that serves the State of Queensland.
• Comfortable working within a structured government setting and open to travel as required.

Your New Workplace and Team

Crown Law operates as the trusted legal advisor for the Queensland Government. The Native Title Litigation team represents the State in high-stakes Federal Court cases regarding native title determinations and compensation. You will collaborate with seasoned litigators and benefit from mentorship tailored to enhance your specialization in native title law.

Culture and Benefits

Reflecting Queensland's diverse population, the workplace offers an inclusive and collaborative environment with a strong emphasis on professional growth. Crown Law provides meaningful legal experience balanced with well-being initiatives, flexible work arrangements, reduced billable hours compared to private practice, comprehensive leave benefits, health and wellness programs, and salary packaging options.

Additional Information

• Applications remain current for 12 months.
• For confidential inquiries, contact specified representatives by phone quoting the reference number provided by the employer.
• Closing Date: Thursday, 30th July 2026.

Application Process

Submit a brief cover letter explaining your interest and suitability along with your resume through the designated application system.