Purpose of Position

The primary role of Legal Associates is to support and assist judges of the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia (Division 1), which is a Federal Court of superior record that exercises jurisdiction exclusively in Family Law. Legal Associates assist in researching cases, points of law, preparing matters for hearing and other related matters for judges sitting at first instance and/or in Appeals. They provide assistance to judicial officers during court hearings and other administrative support to judges as required, and perform court support duties. Legal Associates primarily provide assistance to designated judges but may also assist other judges if the need arises. Some interstate travel will be required.

Key Responsibilities and Duties

The occupant of this position provides the following:

- Research assistance to judicial officers.
- Assistance with the general operation and day‑to‑day running of chambers including responding to enquiries.
- Assistance with the management of cases and, if required, entry of data into the Court’s case management system.
- Assistance with the preparation of matters for both the Court and the Judge.
- Assistance to the Judge with judgment writing as required, including head notes, catch wording, legal research and editing in line with the Court’s judgments publication standards.
- Assistance in courtroom duties.
- Ordinary interstate travel with the judicial officer for appellate and first instance work.

Qualifications

It is a mandatory requirement that candidates have completed a qualification in law with a strong academic record. Applications from applicants with one or more years of post‑admission experience in legal practice, or similar relevant experience, are preferred.

Selection Criteria

- Demonstrated legal research,



analysis and drafting skills with good attention to detail and accuracy; ability to prepare briefing materials, well‑drafted correspondence and case summaries.
- Problem‑solving skills and the ability to evaluate a large volume of information quickly and manage multiple tasks and priorities effectively.
- Initiative to work autonomously and take responsibility for progressing work while also being able to work collaboratively, build and maintain positive professional relationships and handle sensitive and confidential information appropriately.
- Demonstrated proficiency with technology, including the use of electronic legal resources and the ability to learn and use the Court’s case management systems and virtual courtroom systems.
- The ability to adapt to changing situations and priorities.
- A high standard of ethical behaviour including confidentiality.
- Sound organisational skills, including the ability to manage priorities, meet deadlines and work effectively under pressure in a team setting.
- Well‑developed interpersonal skills, including tact, discretion, initiative and the ability to communicate effectively with members of the judiciary, the legal profession, the public and other court staff.
- Knowledge, or the ability to acquire knowledge, of Family Court functions, the organisation, practices, procedures and terminology.
- Ability to travel when required.

Eligibility

Employment with the Court is subject to the conditions prescribed in the Public Service Act 1999,



and the following:

- Australian citizenship – the successful applicant must hold Australian citizenship.
- Security and character clearance – the successful applicant must satisfy a Police Records Check, and may also be required to complete security clearances during the course of their employment.
- Successful applicants engaged into the APS will be subject to a probation period.
- Individuals who have received a redundancy benefit from an APS agency may apply, but may not be engaged until their redundancy benefit period has expired.

Diversity and Inclusion

Federal Court Australia is committed to supporting an inclusive and diverse workforce and welcomes and encourages applications from People with Disability. First Nations peoples, LGBTIQA+ people, people from Culturally and Linguistically Diverse backgrounds, mature age workers, as well as young workers, are supported in building an inter‑generational workforce and advancing gender equity and families. Federal Court Australia will provide reasonable adjustments for candidates to participate equitably in the recruitment process and discuss workplace adjustments to fulfil the inherent requirements of the role.

RecruitAbility

RecruitAbility applies to this vacancy. Under the RecruitAbility scheme you will be invited to participate in further assessment activity for the vacancy if you choose to apply under the scheme, declare that you have a disability, and meet the minimum requirements for the job. For more information visit: recruitability

Application Deadline

Applications close: Monday, 10August2026 at11:30pm(AEST)

Encouragement of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Applicants

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are strongly encouraged to apply.

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📌 Legal Associate to the Honourable Justice Kari (Adelaide)
🏢 Federal Court of Australia
📍 Adelaide