Senior Lawyer, Commercial Contracts

2 days ago Be among the first 25 applicants Title: Senior Lawyer, Commercial Contracts Requisition ID: 8840 Work Type: Ongoing Full Time Fixed Term Period: Not Applicable Location: Melbourne - CBD Date Posted: 18 Nov 2025 About Us

The Department of Transport and Planning oversees key planning, transport and land use policy decisions and management across the State. A life‑cycle approach to planning, building, connecting and sustaining communities means our people can come together to improve services, deliver sustainable projects, focus on customer engagement, streamline regulatory approval pathways, facilitate community consultation and better realise local economic opportunities for more livable communities across Victoria. People, Legal and Governance

People, Legal and Governance is a Group within DTP Legal that provides business‑enabling people, legal and corporate services functions, to drive a high‑performance culture; timely and accessible legal advice and services; and to support integrated operations and portfolio‑wide programs. Operations and Commercial Branch

The Operations and Commercial Branch of DTP Legal provides advice and support to divisions of the Department and portfolio agencies, in relation to commercial disputes, commercial negotiations, contract management, transport operations, public private partnerships, transport franchises, commercial projects and the integration of the Big Build assets back into our transport network. About The Role

Reporting to the Senior Legal Counsel, Commercial Contracts, this is an excellent opportunity for a commercially minded private practice, in‑house or Government lawyer with an interest in major infrastructure to contribute to projects that shape our State. As Senior Lawyer, Commercial Contracts you’ll work closely with the Senior Legal Counsel and Principal Lawyers to provide expert legal and strategic advice on all aspects of Public Private Partnerships (PPPs) managed by the Commercial Advisory Group—including the West Gate Tunnel, CityLink, EastLink, Peninsula Link, Western Roads Upgrade, Southern Cross Station, and more. Working with a range of stakeholders across legal, commercial and technical disciplines, you’ll play a key role in supporting the Department to achieve its strategic objectives. You’ll tackle high‑value, high‑stakes issues in a collaborative and purpose‑driven team environment to deliver high impact outcomes that benefit all Victorians. Position Outcomes

Work closely with the Senior Legal Counsel and Principal Lawyers to deliver high‑quality, commercially focused legal advice on a broad range of issues related to major infrastructure PPPs—spanning contract interpretation and management, construction, land‑related matters, dispute resolution and general commercial law matters. Critically analyse issues and deploy problem‑solving skills to assist the State to realise value for money for significant infrastructure investments. Build and maintain trusted relationships with a wide range of internal stakeholders and represent the Department externally (as required). Support the effective and efficient management of external legal advisors to ensure advice and services provided are of a high standard, optimise business outcomes and reflect value for money. Draft and review a variety of legal documents, including contracts, contract variations, formal correspondence, Ministerial briefs and Cabinet submissions, ensuring clarity and strategic alignment. Key Selection Criteria

The DTP is seeking a skilled professional with strong critical thinking and problem‑solving abilities, capable of delivering effective solutions while navigating complex business contexts. The role requires resilience, adaptability, and the ability to influence and collaborate across teams, with a solid understanding of organisational and political dynamics. Applicants should also have applied legal expertise, including providing sound legal advice and drafting legally effective documents with minimal guidance. Qualifications and Experience

Mandatory

Admitted as a lawyer in Victoria and eligible to hold a Victorian practising certificate. Desirable

Experience in private practice or in‑house with a broad range of commercial agreements, PPPs or major infrastructure. What We Offer

Flexible working arrangements with a hybrid working model focused on collaboration and teamwork. Meaningful work making Victorian communities more accessible and livable. Professional growth and development opportunities across the department and the wider Victorian Public Services. Optimal work‑life balance initiatives including flexible working arrangements. Opportunity to work across multiple urban and suburban hubs. We prioritise the development of a safe and inclusive culture. Culture Value

We are an equal opportunity employer, embracing a diverse range of applicants such as veterans, people who identify as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander, LGBTQIA community members, individuals with disabilities and/or health conditions, and those from varied faith and cultural backgrounds. At our department, we prioritise the development of a safe, inclusive and high‑performance culture through shared actions and behaviours that align with our strategy and direction. How To Apply

Applications close on Wednesday 3 December 2025 11:59 PM. Please include a resume and cover letter. All applications must be submitted through the online portal. We’re unable to consider email or manual applications. For more information, contact Martin John, Senior Legal Counsel, Commercial Contracts at martin.john@transport.vic.gov.au or 0424 578 272.

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