ABOUT US

The Australian Manufacturing Workers’ Union (AMWU) is a progressive trade union dedicated to advancing the rights and wellbeing of manufacturing workers and our communities.  We represent workers in the metals trades, printing, paper industry, vehicle industry, food and confectionery industry, as well as technical trades and professions.

We are driven by our values. We are democratic, inclusive, fair and respectful; we do what we say; and we work strategically, standing together as one to deliver outcomes for members.

With a rich history and commitment to social justice, we pride ourselves on bold member-led campaigns that effect real change and build workers’ power.

The AMWU is committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace. We strongly encourage applications from First Nations people, women, people with disability, people from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds, and LGBTIQ+ people. 

ROLE STATEMENT

This role is part of the National Research Centre (NRC), the union’s think tank and hub for strategic litigation. The NRC drives bold reforms that improve the lives of working Australians. 

The NRC works closely with elected AMWU officials and members, providing research and advice to secure better wages and working conditions for members. As a member of the NRC, you will provide strategic legal advice and lead litigation designed to defend the union and improve the lives of our members

This is a time of tremendous challenge, change and opportunity for AMWU members. Across a broad range of industries, members are fighting for the issues that matter to them today, and campaigning for a future in which they and their communities can thrive.

When it comes to the future of workers’ rights and manufacturing in our country, we want the voices of AMWU members and officials to be heard loud and clear, setting a progressive agenda and backing it in with strength on the ground across our industries. Our research capacity is critical to this ambition.

This is where you come in.

Reporting to the National Coordinator of Legal and Research, you will deliver expert legal advice, clear and accessible briefings, and persuasive proposals, while managing legal cases that advance our members' goals for better working lives, stronger families, and thriving communities.

KEY RELATIONSHIPS

This position reports directly to the National Coordinator of Legal and Research. 

Other key relationships include National and State Secretaries, National and State Officers and Officials.

KEY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Advocate in contested hearings and arbitrations in industrial tribunals. 
• Instruct Counsel, working closely with them to prepare and execute legal strategies. 
• Appear in small claims matters within relevant Courts and in preliminary Court hearings for larger matters.
• Prepare submissions and advocate for the Union’s position in government and Fair Work Commission reviews, consultations, and enquiries. 
• Identify and capitalise on industrial and legal opportunities that support Union organising, social, or political campaigns. 
• Mentor junior Industrial/Legal Officers (IO/LOs) and Assistant Research Officers, offering guidance in case management, legal processes, and professional development.
• Assist and advise in enterprise bargaining negotiations and related legal tasks.

In addition to these activities, from time to time you may be asked to undertake tasks that are outside your usual span of duties but that are within your capabilities. Working collaboratively and supporting one another is an integral part of the AMWU’s positive workplace culture. 

Decisions, actions and behaviours are governed by our Code of Conduct and our Union Culture Charter and the delivery of our services to our members is aligned to the commitments outlined in our Strategic Plan and Operational Plan. All employees have accountability to ensure work and conduct is aligned with these.

FRAUD AND CORRUPTION PREVENTION

The Union constantly strives to improve our practices to ensure we uphold the highest ethical standards. The AMWU has a zero-tolerance approach to any fraud, corruption or misconduct, and all staff are required to report any potential fraud, corruption or misconduct in accordance with the union’s Whistleblower Policy. The National Executive Officer has a key role in ensuring compliance with these policies and legislative requirements.  

WORK HEALTH AND SAFETY

In accordance with the AMWU’s WHS Policy, all employees have a responsibility to take reasonable care of their own health and safety, and that of others. To meet this commitment, all levels of management shall be held responsible for ensuring all staff are aware of and have agreed to work to this policy. 

UNION POLICIES

The Union is governed by our Union Rules and various legislation. Internal policies, procedures and principles have been adopted to ensure transparency, accountability, good governance, acceptable behaviour and guidance for decision making. All employees must work in accordance with these policies and procedures. 

SALARY AND CONDITIONS

• Salary at Officer 6 of our salary structure $113,620.23.
• Opportunity to work with passionate advocates for workers’ rights.
• A dynamic and supportive work environment.
• Generous working conditions including:
  • Monthly RDO
  • 12.5% superannuation
  • Additional Christmas shutdown leave

SELECTION CRITERIA (ABILITIES, QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE)

Essential:

• Demonstrated commitment to union values and principles.
• Two or more years post-admission experience as a Legal Officer or equivalent in an industrial relations/legal environment. 
• Experience providing advice on industrial and legal matters, including discipline, redundancy, performance management, and return to work issues. 
• Strong background in analysing, interpreting, and advising on industrial legislation and agreements, and drafting complex legal documents. 
• Practical experience in representing clients in industrial tribunals and courts, both in procedural hearings and contested cases. 
• Extensive experience managing case files, meeting deadlines, and ensuring compliance with Tribunal and Court Orders. 
• In-depth understanding of enterprise bargaining and supporting Union interests through legal channels.
• Demonstrated ability to deliver results working to deadlines, under minimal supervision and managing multiple tasks and stakeholders.
• Excellent communication skills including written and oral communication for a wide range of audiences and formats.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively within a team and with diverse stakeholders.

Desirable:

• Experience in a union or member-based organisation
• Familiarity with political relationships with key government offices and departments. 

TO APPLY

Send your resume and a cover letter addressing the selection criteria via the "Apply Now" button.

For any enquiries, please contact Joshua Newton at [email protected] using the subject line: Legal Officer enquiry via EthicalJobs.