Principal Solicitor (Property), Commercial, Property and Technology

About This Role

Challenging, diverse and professionally fulfilling work on matters unique to the public sector

Working on transactional matters and high-profile property matters as a trusted legal partner to the Victorian Government

Hybrid work - enjoy the flexibility of office and remote work

Ongoing | Full-time

VPS 6.1 $138,631 - $162,076 plus superannuation per annum

About The VGSO The Victorian Government Solicitor's Office (VGSO) serves the rule of law exclusively for the State. Our place within government ensures we are at the centre of legal change, reform and problem‑solving. We operate as a service‑driven legal professional practice and strive for excellence in this competitive environment. We role‑model the Victorian Public Sector values and VGSO's Our Compass, which guides how we work together in everything we do: Proud of what we do; Value every voice; Learn, grow, thrive; Always evolving; Act with care.

About The Branch The Commercial, Property and Technology (CP&T) Branch assists government clients to conduct significant transactions and projects, manage their corporate affairs and acquire, manage or dispose of estates and interests in land, goods or services. The branch offers specialist services in IP/IT, property and Native Title. It offers deep commercial expertise with a government perspective. The Property Team advises government clients in relation to a wide range of leasing, licensing, purchase and sale transactions and public infrastructure developments occurring on Crown and freehold land, involving the private sector and other government agencies. Many of these land transactions, developments and projects involve substantial financial commitments by government, and the provision of significant infrastructure or services to clients, which include departments and statutory authorities.

About The Role An exciting opportunity exists for a Principal Solicitor with developed property law skills, to make a strong and meaningful contribution as an important team member within the Commercial, Property & Technology Branch. Specifically, this role will appeal to you if you wish to perform challenging and interesting legal work for State Government and statutory authority clients, in connection with government land and property transactions involving both Crown and freehold land, including the drafting and negotiation of various agreements relating to property and commercial transactions.

Responsibilities

Independently prepare, manage and conduct a range of complex and/or sensitive matters including provide legal advice to government clients, particularly in relation to property issues, land transactions and public infrastructure projects;

Provide clear, concise and authoritative written and oral advice to government, including interpretation of agreements, real property concepts and statutory interpretation;

Draft, negotiate and assist in settling a range of complex property and commercial agreements, including commercial leases and licences, contracts of sale and land use and development agreements;

Undertake research and analysis on complex and challenging matters; and

Supervise, lead and mentor junior solicitors.

Skills And Experience

Admitted to practice as a legal practitioner of the Supreme Court of Victoria

Ideal candidate will have 6+ years practising experience

Strong knowledge and understanding of principles and practice of property law in both transactional and advisory capacities

Excellent interpersonal, communication and client relationship management skills

Flexibility and the ability to manage competing priorities

Proven experience supervising, leading and mentoring staff

Enthusiasm for working in a government law office.

Benefits VGSO offers an inclusive, collegiate and collaborative work environment where you will be well‑supported and mentored to develop your knowledge. You will also be given excellent career opportunities to progress and develop within the organisation. VGSO embraces flexibility and recognises the importance of work‑life balance. We offer a flexible hybrid work arrangement, allowing employees to spend half of their time working remotely and the other half in the office. This set‑up encourages collaboration and strengthens team connections, while supporting your ability to achieve a healthy work‑balance.

How To Apply If this sounds like the opportunity for you, apply now! Applications must include a cover letter and resume. Please note it is not a requirement to respond to the Key Selection Criteria separately but applicants should outline their relevant experience in their cover letter. To find out more about this role, please view the position description attached. Alternatively, you can contact Kate Miller, Talent Acquisition Business Partner, on 0408 353 909 or via careers@vgso.vic.gov.au

Applications close at 11:59pm on Wednesday, 18 March 2026.

Preferred candidates will be subject to pre‑employment checks including but not limited to, reference checks, pre‑employment misconduct screening and criminal record checks.

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