GBK is seeking a passionate and experienced Legal Officer to join a multidisciplinary team and work cooperatively with our Traditional Owners of the Torres and Endeavour Straits.ABOUT GBKGur A Baradharaw Kod Sea and Land Council Torres Strait Islander Corporation ("GBK") is a community-owned, not-for-profit organisation that holds the important role as the peak body of all Registered Native Title Bodies Corporates ("PBCs") in the Torres and Endeavour Straits. Our work focuses on developing sustainable partnerships with native title holders and stakeholders to achieve economic, social and cultural development.As the Native Title Representative Body for the Torres and Endeavour Straits region, GBK assists Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people with all aspects of native title under the Native Title Act.ABOUT THIS OPPORTUNITYThe Legal Officer role works as a member of GBK's Native Title Services team. The role's focus is to provide timely legal services and advice within GBK, and on behalf of the organisation to support the rights and interests of native title legislation and its application.Reporting to the Principal Legal Officer (PLO), the Legal Officer works across the organisation to support decision-making, policy development and implementation, as well as providing timely high-level litigation and/or legal advice, briefings, and correspondence on complex areas of law and policy issues to ensure efficient and effective legal services.Key ResponsibilitiesIn this role, you will be responsible for:Providing native title claimants and GBK with legal advice as directed by the PLOAssisting in the preparation, management and conduct of applications under the Native Title Act 1993 (Cth) and other relevant legislationTaking statements, performing analysis and producing reports to inform and progress native title claims and Indigenous Land Use Agreements and Future Acts responsesProviding advocacy and representation of native title claim groups in matters relating to legal matters before the Federal CourtNegotiating contractual arrangements between stakeholders and external service providersMaintaining a high degree of technical knowledge in sea- and land-related legal matters relevant to the Indigenous people of Torres StraitProviding guidance and assistance to other GBK employees on legal issues and legal practiceThe Ideal Candidate will have:Completed tertiary-level Legal qualifications and be admitted (or be eligible to be admitted) as a legal practitioner in QueenslandA practising certificate in Queensland (or be eligible to hold a practicing certificate)Sound knowledge of the Native Title Act 1993 and other relevant legislationA sound understanding of the rules and procedures of the Federal Court of Australia, the National Native Title Tribunal, and State tribunals and courts having jurisdiction in matters affecting native titleSound knowledge and sincere understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait culture, issues and aspirations of First Nations People and commitment to the principles of advocacy and self-determination for First Nations PeopleStrong stakeholder management and interpersonal skills with an ability to represent and negotiateUnderstanding of legal ethical responsibilities including the importance and maintenance of information barriers and confidentialityA genuine interest in working cooperatively with the First Nation groups of Kemer Kemer Meriam, Gudamaluialgal, Maluialgal, Kulkalgal and KaiwalagalPlease note, the willingness to travel to remote First Nations communities in light air crafts is an essential requirement of this position.We strongly encourage Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander persons to apply for this role.Benefits include:Competitive remuneration and generous salary packaging (PBI)Flexible working arrangements including working from home or based in our offices in Cairns and Thursday IslandWorking for a highly-regarded employer and respected community-led organisationAPPLY NOWHit that pink "Quick Apply" button and upload a PDF of your current resume and a short letter about you and why you'd be perfect for this position.We are looking forward to meeting you!
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