We are DoJ

Our purpose: Through enabling a fair and just society we make a positive difference to the lives of Queenslanders through the important and challenging work we do.

About the role

Strategic Policy and Legislation (SPL) has wide reaching responsibilities that support the operation of Queensland's justice system. SPL has teams that focus on specific aspects of policy and legislation, as well as a specialist project team. The Criminal Law teams focus on law and policy with respect to criminal law and criminal justice reform, including the Criminal Code, sentencing laws, criminal procedure and jurisdiction, organised crime, drugs misuse and many other aspects of criminal justice policy. The successful applicant will be placed in a policy and legislation team focused on criminal law and criminal justice having regard to SPL's business needs.

By working with us you will be part of a team that has a crucial role to lead legislative and policy projects in relation to criminal law and criminal justice matters to progress the Government's law reform program. To be successful, you will apply your research and writing skills to draft or oversee the drafting of a range of high-level documents about complex legislative and policy issues for a variety of audiences, including the Minister and Parliament. You will represent the department by appearing as a witness in Parliamentary Committee hearings on portfolio bills and will also supervises other team members in the team.

What you will bring

To thrive in this role, you will need:
Demonstrated high level ability to understand key issues and emerging trends in criminal law and criminal justice policy and their implications for the Queensland Government and the community;
Proven ability or demonstrably transferable skills to lead the analysis, development and evaluation of wide-ranging complex,



policy and legislative options within a project management framework, particularly in relation to criminal law and criminal justice policy;
Proven ability to navigate ambiguity, lead and influence change and deliver outcomes including when faced with resistance and setbacks;
Excellent oral and written communication and negotiation skills and the ability to lead, collaborate, or work independently in a team environment;
Proven ability to build and maintain stakeholder relationships including the ability to influence change towards mutually beneficial outcomes and establish partnerships to support business outcomes; and
Ability to manage and enhance the performance of others, build capability and inspire individual and team commitment.

Join Us

Join a highly regarded government department making a meaningful and positive difference for many Queenslanders. Our work is significant and fulfilling.

In addition to great work, you will enjoy a variety of benefits, including:

Flexible and remote working arrangements. This may include telecommuting for part of the working week whilst having regard for business needs.
A rewarding role with professional development opportunities on offer
Cooperative and supportive team
Strategic and interesting work
A highly supportive culture that values diversity and inclusion while contributing to team success.

Make it happen

After reading the application information package and the role description, apply for a new challenge that makes a difference in your community.

Applications to remain current for 12 months. Applicants may be considered for other vacancies at this level during the period, which may include temporary roles.

Job Ad Reference: QLD/696828/26

Closing Date: Tuesday, 18th August 2026This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Australia License.

📌 Principal Legal Officer (Brisbane)
🏢 Queensland Government
📍 Brisbane