Law Interpretation Officer - (Affirmative measure - Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander employment)

This vacancy is only open to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander applicants. This initiative helps to increase the number of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people employed in the APS, to better reflect the diversity of the Australian community.

We are seeking Law Interpretation Officers for roles across Law Design and Practice (LDP), the Compliance and Engagement Group (CEG) and Frontline Operations (FO).

Opportunities may be available across various business lines and branches, including Objections and Review, the Office of the Chief Tax Counsel and Policy, Analysis and Legislation within LDP; CEG’s technical advice and leadership areas; and Operational Policy, Assurance and Law within the Frontline Compliance business line in FO.

As a Law Interpretation Officer, you will use your relevant law and policy expertise and exercise judgement to solve complex, technical and sensitive taxation matters by undertaking complex legal and policy research, analysis and interpretation to inform advice, recommendations and decision making. You’ll interpret and analyse facts, evidence and information. You will apply and interpret law and policies to resolve disputes and contribute to policy and law design changes that supports effective tax and superannuation administration. You’ll identify opportunities for policy and law design improvements, develop and drive a motivated workforce to achieve operational excellence and organisation objectives.

The role may involve matters affecting individuals (including high wealth individuals), small businesses, public groups, multinational enterprises, private groups and high-risk taxpayers. You will work collaboratively with your team and a wide range of Commonwealth, tax, legal and community stakeholders. This may involve resolving and preventing disputes, supporting the development of government policy and legislation through close engagement with Treasury and other government agencies, and contributing to complex enquiries and whole-of-government processes.

You will apply a holistic approach to law interpretation and decision making to maintain the integrity of the tax system, prioritising the overall client experience. You’ll use your expertise to lead, mentor and develop junior staff and share your knowledge with others.

We embrace the strength of diversity – through our people and the perspectives they bring. 

We are committed to inclusive recruitment practices and encourage applications from people with disability or neurodivergence, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, and individuals from all backgrounds. Reasonable adjustments can be provided throughout the selection process.

Our ideal candidate:

• applies expert knowledge of taxation and superannuation law, policy frameworks and relevant legal principles to provide authoritative advice and resolve complex or emerging issues

• exercises sound judgement in analysing complex information, managing risk and uncertainty, and developing practical, evidence based solutions where established guidance may not exist

• communicates with influence and credibility, translating complex technical concepts into clear advice for team members, senior leaders, stakeholders and external clients

• builds and manages strategic stakeholder relationships, engaging early with business partners, Treasury, other government agencies and external stakeholders to achieve mutually beneficial outcomes

• demonstrates the ability to bring together diverse perspectives, build consensus and articulate a clear position to support decision-making and organisational outcomes

• provides technical leadership, building capability through coaching, mentoring and knowledge sharing, while promoting innovation, integrity and the consistent administration of the law and policy intent. 

Qualifications in taxation, law, accounting, business or a related discipline are highly regarded.

Candidates applying under the affirmative measure provision must provide confirmation of their Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander heritage. 

For further information about this requirement and the application process please select the Apply now button.

This recruitment process is being used to fill both ongoing and non-ongoing positions. Non-ongoing positions may be offered for up to 18 months.

Non-ongoing vacancies have the potential to become ongoing. These non-ongoing positions may become ongoing within the next 12 months. Should a position become ongoing then the merit pool established through this selection process may be used to fill the vacancy.