The New South Wales Bar Association is a professional association for practising barristers and associate members, such as clerks and judges. We promote the public good in relation to justice and the provision of legal services. This is achieved by promoting and maintaining the highest standards of excellence among local practising barristers.

The Bar Council is the Association’s governing body, comprised of 21 barristers elected by the membership. The Bar Council is the designated local regulatory authority for a range of functions under the Legal Profession Uniform Law. The Bar Council is assisted by specialist committees comprised of barrister-volunteers, who offer their skills and expertise for the benefit of the public and the profession. Committees regularly advise and assist the Bar Council in matters of law reform and public affairs, including responding to matters of public policy and the administration of justice.

About the Role

The Bar Association is seeking an experienced paralegal to join our Policy and Public Affairs Department which is responsible for coordinating the preparation of submissions on a range of policy issues and for supporting the work of Committees on matters of law reform and public affairs. This can involve providing expert commentary to ministers, members of parliament, government and parliamentary committees and law reform agencies.

The role will provide a variety of opportunities for professional development and an insight into practice at the NSW Bar.

Responsibilities include:

• Providing secretarial services to Bar Association Committees, including attending Committee meetings, preparing meeting documents and providing administrative support to Committee Chairs.
• Assisting policy lawyers with legal research.
• Assisting with organising Continuing Professional Development events, functions and open days.
• Responding to questions and requests from Committee Chairs and members.
• Assisting with the administration of a fee recovery service and mediator accreditation scheme.
• Attending to other general administrative tasks.
• Other duties as required by the Executive Director and the Manager, Policy and Public Affairs.

Work outside the core standard hours may occasionally be required. This position reports to the Manager, Policy and Public Affairs.

The successful applicant will have the following essential skills and aptitudes:

• Demonstrated experience in a Paralegal or other legal role.
• Effective research and analytical skills.
• Excellent communication and organisational skills and an ability to work collaboratively.
• A commitment to high work standards and strong attention to detail.
• Ability to meet deadlines and ensure tasks are completed on time.
• Ability to work in a small team environment with minimal supervision.

The Association is committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We welcome applications from all eligible candidates, regardless of gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, religious affiliation, age or disability. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are encouraged to apply. The New South Wales Bar Association supports flexible working practices and can accommodate work from home for part of the week.

The salary range for this role is upwards from $55k depending on experience.