Trial Advocate
Darwin or Alice Springs | Full Time | Fixed Term
Fixed Term period start date: 1 June 2026
Fixed Term period end date: 1 June 2027
Advocate for Justice. Drive Strategic Litigation. Lead Systemic Change.
Join the Civil team at the North Australian Aboriginal Justice Agency (NAAJA) and take on a senior
advocacy role representing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander clients in some of the Northern Territory’s most significant and complex civil matters.
This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced litigator and advocate who is passionate about social justice, strategic litigation, and improving outcomes for Aboriginal communities.
About the Role
NAAJA’s Civil practice is highly respected and works across areas including police and prison accountability, child protection, discrimination, tenancy, guardianship, social security, coronial inquests and strategic public interest litigation.
As the Trial Advocate, you will appear in contested matters across courts and tribunals, provide specialist advice, drive strategic, litigation, mentor junior lawyers, and contribute to law reform and systemic advocacy initiatives.
This role can be based in either Darwin or Alice Springs.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Appearing as advocate in contested matters across a broad civil practice
- Running complex litigation including child protection, tenancy, guardianship, Centrelink appeals and coronial matters
- Providing strategic legal advice and written opinions
- Supporting high-impact test cases and systemic advocacy work
- Mentoring and developing junior lawyers and staff
- Delivering internal legal training and capability building
- Contributingto law reform, policy and community education initiatives
What We’re Looking For
We are seeking a highly capable and motivated senior lawyer who:
- Has strong litigation and courtroom advocacy experience
- Can independently manage complex contested matters
- Is passionate about social justice and Aboriginal rights
- Has excellent strategic thinking and communication skills
- Thrives working in a collaborative and culturally diverse environment
- Is committed to mentoring and developing others
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander applicants are strongly encouraged to apply.
Essential Requirements
- Admission (or eligibility for admission) as a legal practitioner in the Northern Territory
- Minimum 5 years post-admission experience
- Significant litigation and advocacy experience
- High-level written and oral advocacy skills
- Ability to mentor and supervise staff
- Strong understanding of issues affecting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples
- Excellent cross-cultural communication skills
- Current driver’s licence
- Ability to obtain an Ochre Card
- Satisfactory criminal history check
Why Join NAAJA?
At NAAJA, you’ll join one of Australia’s leading Aboriginal legal services and contribute to meaningful, community-led change.
We offer
- Competitive salary- $135,500.08 to $144,109.85
- 6 weeks annual leave with 17.5% loading,
- 3 weeks personal leave and more
- Salary packaging up to $18,550 tax free
- Professional development opportunities
Apply now.
Applicants for this position must submit a cover letter and resume addressing the essential criteria.
Enquiries can be sent to peopleandcapability@naaja.org.au. **Emailed applications not accepted**
Applications close: 26 May 2026
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are strongly encouraged to apply.
