Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions
- Conduct significant criminal cases in the Supreme and District Courts
- Assist the Director with management of the Office as a member of the Executive
- Lead and mentor skilled lawyers within a busy legal professional environment
Attorney-General's Department
Job reference: 860161
Location: 5000 - ADELAIDE
Job status: Long Term Contract
Eligibility: Open to Everyone
- Conduct of the most serious and complex criminal trials and appeals
- Outstanding opportunity for an expert counsel
- Make your mark in leadership
The organisation
The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) plays a crucial role in providing the people of South Australia with an independent and effective criminal prosecution service which is timely, efficient and just. The Office of approximately 200 staff comprises the Director of Public Prosecutions (Director), prosecutors, solicitors, witness assistance officers and administrative staff.
A vibrant, busy workplace, the ODPP handles all major indictable criminal prosecutions, working effectively with SA Police.
The role
The Deputy Director’s responsibilities encompass the conduct of the most serious criminal trials and appeals.
This key role reports to and works closely with the Director and is a foundational member of the ODPP Executive.
This is a unique opportunity to leave your mark on leadership and drive meaningful change to meet emerging challenges, deliver improved outcomes and strengthen the ODPP’s capacity to serve the community with integrity and excellence.
The Deputy Director will:
- Conduct significant criminal cases in the Supreme and District Courts
- Conduct Appeals in the Court of Appeal and the High Court of Australia
- Assist the Director with management of the Office as a member of the Executive
- Act as the Director when required
- Lead and mentor skilled lawyers within a busy legal professional environment
- Promote good culture, wellbeing and continuous learning
- Enhance the ODPP’s relationship with the Courts, SAPOL and other key stakeholders
What we are looking for
A barrister or prosecutor with extensive experience and expertise in criminal law will relish the exceptional quality work on offer in this role. In addition to superb legal skills, a keen interest and experience in leading other lawyers and making a contribution beyond pure court work is sought.
You also have an impeccable reputation for ethics and the desire to add value within a key public institution.
You must be eligible for admission in South Australia.
Candidates from around Australia and New Zealand are encouraged to apply.
Reward
SAES 2 package
3-year Executive contract
Location: Adelaide
Closing date: 11:30pm, Friday 23 October 2026
Enquiries to: Mary Chalmers, SC, Director of Public Prosecutions
Email: mary.chalmers@sa.gov.au Ph:+61 87322 7055
Click Apply and follow the prompts to submit your application.
Applications close: 23/10/2026 11:30 PM
Attachments:
- Job Application Pack.pdf
- Pre-Employment-Declaration_240522.pdf
- SAES2 Deputy Director JPS.pdf
Flexibility Statement
The South Australian public sector promotes diversity and flexible ways of working including part-time. Applicants are encouraged to discuss the flexible working arrangements for this role.
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