Organisation: Department of Agriculture and Water Resources
Job Title: Government Lawyer / FOI Officer
Word Limit: Maximum 500 Words
Location: Canberra ACT
In 2011, I successfully completed a Bachelor of Laws (Honours) with the University of Canberra, and have subsequently maintained an ACT Restricted Practicing Certificate. In demonstration of my commitment to my career as a legal professional, I have gained post-graduate qualifications which include a Certificate of Enrolment (ACT Supreme Court), and a Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice. With almost four years of experience as a qualified Solicitor, I have clearly verified my high-level ability to apply this academic knowledge and concepts to a diverse range of practical situations.
This includes legal analysis and provision of advice, as demonstrated in my current role as Solicitor with Sparke Helmore Lawyers where I am responsible for representing large insurance companies and working with them to provide advice regarding claims management, litigation, negotiation, and settlement strategies on claims. Through analysis of both Common Law and the Workers Compensation Act 1951 (the Act) I ensure the advice I provide is relevant and accurate, thus enabling insurance companies to make informed decisions. For example, there was an instance where a personal injury claim had been rejected due to the worker having a diagnosed mental illness. Upon reviewing the rejection and applying professional expertise, I determined that under Schedule 2 of the Act, this was not cause for rejection. This enabled me to provide the insurance company with a clear analysis of their obligations, resulting in prompt settlement of the matter.
The settlement of this claim was facilitated through an informal settlement conference, demonstrating my effective case management and dispute resolution skills. By taking this action, I acted in the best interest of the company through the avoidance of an often costly court hearing. Moreover, my experience extends to dispute resolution relating to matters of Common Law. Within previous roles, I worked with clients to seek resolution through mediation. The cases that I dealt with were wide-ranging and included property damage, medical negligence, and motor vehicle accidents. In all of these instances, I adopt a ‘without prejudice’ process with the aim of reaching a voluntarily agreed outcome with all parties in the dispute.
Possessing high-level communication skills, I have the ability to prepare complex written information. This includes preparing clear and succinct legal advice relating to claims, as well as post-conference and hearing advice. In doing so, I demonstrate my confidence in legal analysis, whilst upholding my legal duty of care by ensuring that my clients clearly understand their obligations and advice that I provide. Additionally, I am experienced in writing applications for Freedom of Information (FOI) requests and I possess advanced knowledge of the processes and laws that are involved.
Throughout my career, I have gained experience in Commonwealth administrative law, particularly through the handling of ComCare claims. As such, I am aware of Government legal processes, including dealing with the Administrative Appeals Tribunal through reconsiderations of determinations by the judicial body. I am confident that my skills and experience are easily transferable to effectively manage and resolve privacy and FOI matters.
