Principal Solicitor

EDO-NQ is a community legal centre which specialises in public interest environmental law and is governed by a volunteer Management Committee. EDO employs a Coordinator, full-time Principal Solicitor and a full-time Solicitor and takes a team-based approach to achieving its organisational aims and objectives.

Within this structure, the Principal Solicitor is responsible for the following, subject to Management Committee direction:
1. Coordinating and delivering legal advice and casework services, engaging in law reform and legal policy review projects, and delivering community legal education programs;
2. Managing other legal staff to assist in delivering EDO-NQ’s services; and
3. Reporting to the Management Committee and EDO-NQ’s funders in relation to 1 and 2 above.

The successful applicant will use their knowledge and skills to advance the public interest by delivering legal services that contribute to the protection and enhancement of the region’s natural environment and cultural heritage. The work of EDO’s Principal Solicitor focuses on advancing environmental interests and holds the potential to make a positive contribution to the preservation and protection of two World Heritage Areas and other ecological systems under threat in Queensland’s far north. The position will provide the successful applicant with the opportunity to rapidly improve their knowledge and understanding of Queensland’s environmental and planning law framework and how this system interfaces with Federal laws affecting environmental decision making.

Professional development opportunities are actively supported. The successful applicant will participate in the 25th anniversary conference to be held in 2010 (hosted by EDO NSW in Sydney) as well as attending the yearly Queensland Environmental Law Association three day conference. There is also the opportunity to engage in strategic litigation, contribute to law reform projects and assist with the delivery of legal education programs.


Opportunity for an experienced Environmental Lawyer to assist the community defend Northern Queensland’s unique environment.

A Bachelor Degree in Law, a practising certificate or eligibility to obtain a practising certificate are essential, and an ability to provide legal advice and casework services to individuals and community organisations in the area of Public Interest Environmental Law. Proficient oral and written communication skills with sound typing and computer research skills are required to fulfil the varied requirements of this position.