Principal Legal Officer

at  Northern Land Council

PRINCIPAL LEGAL OFFICER (PLO)

Location: Darwin
Status: Three-year fixed term contract (Full-time)
Total Remuneration Package: $215,000 – $230,000
Are you an experienced legal professional ready to make a real difference? Do you want to lead a large and dynamic legal team while shaping the future of land rights and native title for Aboriginal people in the Northern Territory? This is your chance to step into a high-impact role at a pivotal time in the Northern Land Council’s journey.
The Principal Legal Officer (PLO) is the NLC’s most senior legal practitioner, responsible for managing our legal services team and playing a vital role under the Aboriginal Land Rights (NT) Act 1976. This role offers a unique opportunity to work closely with Traditional Owners, Aboriginal community members, government agencies, and other key stakeholders, ensuring their rights and aspirations are achieved and protected.

WHAT WE’RE LOOKING FOR

We’re seeking a resilient, highly organised leader with the ability to think on their feet and provide expert legal advice. Someone who is able to travel on a regular basis, across our regions and enjoy the challenges of working in the field. You’ll thrive in this role if you have:

• A minimum three (3) years legal leadership experience with a background in commercial litigation, native title, or land claims plus managing and developing a large team.
• A minimum of ten (10) years’ post-admission experience in litigation, negotiations, and various legal areas, including senior-level roles.
• In-depth knowledge of the Aboriginal Land Rights Act 1976, Native Title Act 1993, Public Governance Act 2013, and relevant legislation affecting the NLC.
• A current legal practicing certificate

For a full copy of the Position Description refer to the link provided below.

WHY THIS ROLE IS UNIQUE

In this role, you’ll work in a culturally rich and legally complex environment, representing the NLC and our constituents across the Northern Territory. You’ll lead strategic legal initiatives, advocate for Aboriginal land rights, and contribute to the NLC’s mission of delivering social, economic, and cultural benefits to Traditional Owners.

WHAT YOU’LL DO

• Provide expert legal advice to the CEO, Chair, Executive Council, and stakeholders.
• Represent the NLC in negotiations, litigation, and consultations with external organisations.
• Oversee statutory functions, including Aboriginal Land Trusts, native title matters, and policy development.
• Lead and manage one of the largest legal teams in the Northern Territory
• Build strong relationships with diverse stakeholders, including Traditional Owners, government, and proponents.

We’re seeking a resilient, highly organised leader with the ability to think on their feet and provide expert legal advice. Someone who is able to travel on a regular basis, across our regions and enjoy the challenges of working in the field. You’ll thrive in this role if you have:

• A minimum three (3) years legal leadership experience with a background in commercial litigation, native title, or land claims plus managing and developing a large team.
• A minimum of ten (10) years’ post-admission experience in litigation, negotiations, and various legal areas, including senior-level roles.
• In-depth knowledge of the Aboriginal Land Rights Act 1976, Native Title Act 1993, Public Governance Act 2013, and relevant legislation affecting the NLC.
• A current legal practicing certificat