Lawyer, Systemic Review Unit

The Department of Education (the department) is responsible for delivering and regulating statewide learning and development services to approximately one-third of all Victorians across the early childhood and school education sectors. The department is also one of Victoria's biggest employers, with approximately 80,000 teaching staff and around 5,000 public service employees.

The Legal Division provides highly valued legal services to support the delivery of the department's strategic objectives, key reforms, and to manage legal risk. In doing so, the Legal Division provides direct, practical, and strategic legal advice to portfolio ministers, the secretary, other senior staff, and over 1,600 government schools, supporting approximately over 650,000 Victorian Government school students.

About the role - Fixed term, full-time commencing September 2025 until June 2026.

An exciting opportunity has arisen for a lawyer to advance their legal career working in the newly formed Systemic Review Unit in the Legal Division of the Department of Education.

The Systemic Review Unit was established following findings made by the Board of Inquiry into historical child sexual abuse in Beaumaris Primary School and other government schools. The Victorian Government committed to understanding its historical failings outside those detailed in the Inquiry, emphasizing institutional accountability and transparency.

Lawyers in this team will assist in providing high-quality, timely legal advice relevant to the systemic review, including reviewing and analyzing historical child sexual abuse material, collecting data, reporting, evaluating complex claims, and preparing information for a public report. The role will also contribute to whole-of-government initiatives related to the Inquiry response.

The successful candidate will have an understanding of child safety, institutional accountability, education law, government / public law, and project management experience in a legal environment. Knowledge of negligence claims related to historical child sexual abuse in Victorian government schools is desirable but not essential.

The role will also support broader Legal Division work, including legal research, knowledge management, drafting legal documents, reviewing policies, preparing reports, and liaising with clients.

• Meaningful work that is varied, satisfying, and rewarding - A career as a government lawyer offers unique opportunities for impact and professional growth. For more information, visit Legal profession | vic.gov.au
• Flexible and hybrid working arrangements — Part-time options, flexible hours, and work-from-home arrangements to support work-life balance.
• Competitive salary - Annual increases aligned with the Victorian Public Service Enterprise Agreement.
• Diversity and inclusion - The department values a diverse workforce that reflects the community it serves.
• Values - The department upholds the public sector values : Responsiveness, Integrity, Impartiality, Accountability, Respect, Leadership, and Human Rights.
• Employee assistance program — Support for emotional, mental, and psychological wellbeing.

How to Apply

Review the attached position description for more details. Applicants should submit a CV and a cover letter (max 2 pages). For confidential discussions, contact Jessi Whitby , Project Director, Systemic Review, at 7022 5811 or [email].

The department encourages applications from diverse backgrounds, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander candidates. Adjustments are available for applicants with accessibility needs. For more information, visit the Department website and Diversity and Inclusion page.

Applicants may be required to undergo a police check and other pre-employment screening. All information will be handled confidentially.

Application deadline : 11 : 59 pm on Wednesday, 9 July 2025 .

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