Senior Solicitor

Public Service Association

The Public Service Association of NSW (PSA) represents over 40,000 members in diverse roles across NSW Government departments, state‑owned corporations, schools, universities and TAFEs. The Legal Services Team provides legal services and legal advice to the PSA/CPSU NSW and its members in relation to industrial and employment matters.

The Senior Solicitor reports to the Legal Services Manager and provides supervision and assistance to legal officers within the Legal Services Team as necessary. The Senior Solicitor provides professional legal advice and high‑quality legal services to the PSA/CPSU NSW Executive, staff and members.

Job Functions

  • Work autonomously with minimal supervision.
  • Conduct assigned legal matters (advice and litigation), including high‑level and highly complex matters, in accordance with instructions, legislative requirements and PSA Rules, policies and procedures to ensure high‑quality legal advice and representation.
  • Prepare and advocate cases before the NSW Industrial Relations Commission, Fair Work Commission and other tribunals and courts.
  • Participate in file reviews of allocated matters to identify and manage risk and ensure compliance with Legal Services standards and procedures.
  • Analyse and interpret legislation, awards and agreements and provide expert advice on industrial and legal rights and entitlements.
  • Research and prepare reports and liaise with other staff on industrial matters.
  • Maintain up‑to‑date records on all relevant matters and assigned work.
  • Enhance legal knowledge and skills by attending professional development and in‑house training opportunities.
  • Communicate effectively, analyse issues and solve problems.
  • Determine priorities for assigned legal matters, subject to direction from the Manager, Legal Services, court requirements and client instructions.
  • Prepare internal and external briefings and communications on legal issues.
  • Provide legal advice and support to the PSA/CPSU NSW Industrial Teams and the Executive.
  • Adhere to professional obligations under the Legal Profession Uniform Law (NSW).
  • Provide legal training to internal PSA/CPSU NSW staff as required.
  • Meet with Industrial Teams and the Members’ Support Centre to discuss current and upcoming industrial matters, as required.
  • Perform other related duties as required or directed by the Manager, Legal Services.

Requirements (Knowledge, Skills and Abilities)

  • Commitment to union principles, the PSA Executive and Central Council.
  • Extensive knowledge and understanding of State and Federal industrial relations systems, legislation, awards, agreements and management practices applying to PSA/CPSU NSW members.
  • Detailed knowledge of the structure, functions and requirements of each unit of the PSA/CPSU NSW.
  • Demonstrated ability to follow direction, exercise initiative and apply independent judgment.
  • Relevant tertiary qualifications and a current NSW practising certificate, with 5–7 years’ experience in industrial law.
  • Ability to mentor and support legal officers.
  • Ability to prepare and deliver training and information updates to PSA/CPSU NSW Industrial staff.
  • Strong research and analytical skills.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Intermediate to advanced PC skills.
  • Demonstrated ability to learn new computer programs and other technologies.
  • Proven ability to prioritise, plan and manage competing demands in a timely manner.
  • Proven ability to develop and maintain professional competence and keep abreast of developments in industrial relations law.
  • Demonstrated ability to work as part of a team.
  • Ability to act as Legal Services Manager in the absence of the Manager.

How to apply

Interested applicants should email their résumé and a cover letter to jobapplication@psa.asn.au by close of business on Monday, 9 February 2026.

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