ASD is seeking a highly qualified and experienced legal practitioner to fill the Australian Signals Directorate’s (ASD) General Counsel position. The role of the position is at the SES Band 2 level.

ASD’s purpose is to defend Australia against global threats and advance our national interests through the provision of foreign signals intelligence, cyber security and offensive cyber operations as directed by the Australian Government. The role of ASD’s General Counsel is critical in assisting ASD to fulfil its purpose in accordance with the law. This is reflected in ASD’s values to be meticulous in execution, always acting legally and ethically, and being accountable to the public through government for everything ASD does.

ASD recognises that its signals intelligence capabilities are uniquely intrusive, and its offensive cyber operations even more so. That is why maintaining the Australian Government’s and the Australian public’s trust, by demonstrating that ASD operates legally and with propriety, is of the utmost importance to ASD.

The successful applicant will lead a team of lawyers who will provide advice on all aspects of ASD’s functions, covered under the Intelligence Services Act 2001:

- collect foreign signals intelligence

- communicate foreign signals intelligence

- prevent and disrupt offshore cyber-enabled crime

- provide cyber security advice and assistance to Australian governments, businesses and individuals

- support military operations;

- provide technical assistance to other government agencies;

- cooperate with and assist the national security community in the performance of their functions.

Successful applicants will exemplify ASD’s values and engender a culture of achievement, collaboration and agility. You will be self-aware, and will encourage and respect the diversity of ideas and perspectives that defines ASD’s workforce.

As part of this selection process, a merit pool will be established and may be used to fill similar positions over the next 12 months.

Engagement may be negotiated on an ongoing basis or for a specified term. To be eligible for engagement, an applicant must be admitted (or eligible for admission) in Australia, require a Bachelor of Laws or a Juris Doctor from an Australian tertiary institution (or a comparable overseas qualification) and have at least 10 years post qualification experience, preferably in public law. You must hold, or be eligible to obtain, a practicing certificate in the ACT. This is a security-designated position. The successful applicant will be required to undergo security assessments to the highest level and must be able to be cleared to Top Secret Positive Vetting.

If after reading the selection documentation you have any questions, please contact Jonathan Beaumont, Director, Beaumont and Beaumont on 02 6126 4500 quoting reference 4346.   

For Senior Executive Service administrative recruitment enquiries please contact the Directorate of Senior Officer Management on 02 6265 1742 or DSOM@defence.gov.au.