General Counsel

About this role

The Australian Centre for Disease Control (CDC) is seeking a highly experienced senior legal professional to lead its legal function and serve as General Counsel. Reporting directly to the Director-General and Executive leadership, you will provide strategic legal advice across public health, governance, regulatory compliance and organisational risk. The role is responsible for guiding the CDC on complex legal, contractual and governance matters, representing the organisation in significant legal engagements, and leading legislative and regulatory reform initiatives that support Australia's public health objectives. The key duties of the position include: • advising the Director-General and Executive leaders on regulatory, contractual, and governance matters to ensure compliance with legislative frameworks • representing the CDC in critical legal matters • leading cross-functional legal projects and engagements with key government agencies, including the Attorney-General’s Department, and regulatory bodies to shape national health and biosecurity laws and regulations • contributing to the development of policy and legal frameworks that strengthen the CDC’s governance and operational functions • building legal risk mitigation strategies and strengthening risk governance mechanisms • running the CDC’s legal practice, compliant with the Legal Services Directions 2025 • leading, mentoring and coaching legal staff in the Section, and setting the strategic direction of the Section. This role is ideal for a senior legal professional who thrives in a dynamic, high-profile public health environment, with a commitment to delivering strong legal and policy outcomes in a national regulatory context.