Ready to take on complex cases and shape Queensland’s justice system? The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) is seeking skilled Senior Crown Prosecutors to handle high-profile cases, appear in superior court trials, undertake circuit work, and mentor legal staff. We have two permanent, flexible full-time positions available in Cairns. Take the next step in your legal career.

Job details

About us:

The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) is a vital part of Queensland's justice system, representing the State in prosecuting criminal matters across courts such as the High Court of Australia, Supreme Court, District Court, and more. Our work addresses complex and sensitive legal matters, ensuring justice is upheld with professionalism and integrity.

About the location:

Cairns is a vibrant regional city in Far North Queensland, known for its tropical lifestyle, proximity to the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest, and strong tourism, agriculture, and marine industries. It offers a relaxed yet dynamic environment, ideal for professionals seeking work-life balance in a stunning natural setting.

About your opportunity:

Step into a challenging and rewarding role with the ODPP where you'll play a critical part in delivering justice for Queensland. We are offering two permanent flexible full time PO6 Senior Crown Prosecutor roles in Cairns.

As a Senior Crown Prosecutor, you will be:

• Appearing as leading counsel in a range of criminal proceedings, including complex superior court trials.
• Providing the Director of Public Prosecutions with specialist expert and authoritative advice on questions of criminal law and evidence.
• Exercising, without supervision, the discretion to initiate, vary and discontinue serious criminal charges.
• Identifying and address the needs of victims of crime.
• Communicating persuasively with judges, counsel, solicitors, police officers' witnesses, victims of crime and court officials regarding matters for prosecutions involving contentious and significant issues.
• Motivating and contributing to the professional development and supervision of Crown Prosecutors, legal officers and support staff 
• Being actively involved in activities aimed at improving ODPP practices.

What we're looking for:

We're seeking a driven and experienced legal professional who embodies the following qualities:

• A comprehensive understanding and knowledge of Queensland criminal law and its practice including the ability to prepare and conduct complex and difficult criminal hearings, trials, sentences and appeals in the superior courts and provide advice on legal and tactical issues. 
• A demonstrated understanding of emerging issues impacting the criminal justice system. 
• An ability to identify and address the needs of victims of crime. 
• A strong sense of ethics with qualities of independence, fairness and integrity, good judgment and highly developed decision-making skills. 
• Strong and effective leadership skills including the ability to motivate, mentor and build the capability of legal and support staff. 
• Excellent communication skills and proven ability to negotiate and communicate with influence, with a range of stakeholders including the judiciary, defence counsel, police officers and the community. 
• An active interest in contributing to improving work practices

Mandatory requirements

You must be admitted as a Legal Practitioner in a State or Territory of Australia (please provide your admission date).

Why join us?

This is more than a role; it's your opportunity to engage with some of the state's most pressing legal matters while making a genuine difference in the community. Think you're ready for the challenge?

Applications to remain current for 12 months.

Job Ad Reference: QLD/694386/26

Closing Date: Monday, 20th July 2026

Further information

We are committed to building inclusive cultures in the Queensland public sector that respect and promote human rights and diversity.

Please ensure you download all attachments and follow the instructions on how to apply.

Two positions available.

Documents

Before applying for this vacancy please ensure you read the documents below.

• 694386-26-Role Description (Word, 125KB)
  Role Description
  
  694386-26-Applicant information guide (PDF, 237KB)
  Information Package for Applicants