National Legal Officer, Sydney/Melbourne

Full job description
Work Type: Full-time 12 month contract with possibility of permanent appointment
Location: Sydney or Melbourne
Closing Date: 14 April 2025
The Maritime Union of Australia Division (MUA) of the Construction, Forestry and Maritime, Employees Union (CFMEU) is seeking an experienced legal practitioner to provide legal and strategic industrial advice and representation to the Officials and Members of the MUA.

Located in the MUA’s Victorian Branch, or the National Office in Sydney, the position reports to the Division’s National Legal Director and works closely in a collaborative manner with the Divisional National Legal Team as well as the MUA’s Victorian and Tasmanian Branches.

As part of the National Legal team, it will be necessary to travel interstate, from time to time, as required.

Candidates will have a breadth of experience in providing high level legal services and advice with a strong emphasis on industrial and employment law, possessing a sound understanding and strong working knowledge of the Fair Work Act 200+ (Cth) and associated legislation.

Additionally, candidates will be expected to be able to run their own matters in the Fair Work Commission including unfair dismissals, bargaining related applications and other industrial disputes. Candidates will ideally be able to demonstrate experience in taking cases to the Federal Court.

You will be able to multi-task, assess, prioritise, manage and deliver a busy legal case load as well as provide strategic legal and industrial advice that meets the objectives of the union’s campaigns.

This is an exciting and highly sought-after position in one of Australia’s oldest, most effective and influential trade unions that values collaboration and collectivism, works closely with its partners across the labour movement, takes its social responsibilities seriously, and seeks to influence and shape the future.

To be considered for this role, applicants must possess a degree in Law, have no less than 3 years’ post admission or equivalent experience in similar roles, and hold or be eligible to hold a current practicing certificate. Applicants will need to have demonstrated experience in industrial and employment law as well as a commitment to social justice issues and union values.

A competitive remuneration package, commensurate with experience, will be offered to the successful candidate.

Applications including a cover letter and a resume in no more than 4 pages total to be submitted via email to recruit@mua.org.au Read more