• Location: Darwin, NT
• Position numbers: L23, L27 and LO8
• Base salary range: L1E to L2B ($73,898 - $123,340 pa) + entitlements
• Contract term: Up to 3 years

The Northern Land Council (NLC) is an independent statutory authority of the Commonwealth established under the Aboriginal Land Rights (Northern Territory) Act 1976 (Cth). The NLC is recognised as a representative body under the Native Title Act 1993 (Cth). The NLC is responsible for assisting Aboriginal peoples in the Top End of the Northern Territory to acquire and manage their traditional lands and seas.

NLC is seeking x3 native title and Aboriginal land claim lawyers to join our busy Legal Branch. Successful applicants will have experience and highly developed communication and legal research skills, with a proven record (generally at least 2 years’ post admission practice), and a keen interest in at one or more of the following key areas:

• Native title claims practice (native title claims, compensation claims and related matters)
• Land claims under the Aboriginal Land Rights (Northern Territory) Act 1976 (Cth)
• Commercial litigation and dispute resolution
• Mining, resources and energy law (including negotiations and agreement-making).

Collaborating with other professionals in a cross-cultural and cross-disciplinary organisation, NLC lawyers work to ensure that Traditional Owners achieve and benefit from the acquisition, use, occupation and management of their lands and seas. These roles are challenging but highly rewarding.  The NLC provides its lawyers with unique opportunities to travel across the Top End, engage with Aboriginal clients, and work on groundbreaking matters.

Applicants must be qualified legal practitioners admitted in the Supreme Court of a State or Territory of Australia. 

Knowledge of Aboriginal culture and society and the issues affecting Aboriginal people in the NT and an ability to communicate effectively with Aboriginal people is desirable, as is possession of a ‘C’ Class licence and the ability to safely drive 4WD vehicles. A relocation package is offered to successful applicants moving to Darwin to work for the NLC. 

Contact person: Tamara Cole (08) 8920 5199.