Public Defender - Coffs Harbour
Job Description
Public Defender
$325,380 p.a. plus 12% Superannuation & Conveyance Allowance $17,955 p.a.
The NSW Attorney General is seeking applications for a Public Defender to be based in Coffs Harbour, also serving Grafton.
Role: Public Defenders are specialist barristers who represent disadvantaged (legally aided) defendants in serious criminal cases. They also provide leadership, education and advice to lawyers and policy advice to government. The successful applicant will appear in District Court trials but may also appear in the NSWSC, NSWCCA, NSWCA and the High Court. Some travel is a requirement.
Term: Under the Public Defenders Act 1995, after completion of a minimum 12-month probationary period, appointment is for seven years, renewable.
Selection Criteria: Applicants must be an Australian lawyer, with advocacy experience in criminal trials. Detailed criteria are set out in the Guidelines for the appointment of Public Defenders at publicdefenders.nsw.gov.au
Application process: An application addressing the criteria, with a curriculum vitae and the names of at least two referees, must be submitted online at jobs.dcj.nsw.gov.au (Job Reference Number 82697)
This is a re-advertised role. Previous applications will be brought forward
Closing Date: 11.59 pm AEST on Sunday, 12 July 2026
Enquiries: Richard Wilson SC, Senior Public Defender, (02) 9268 3111.