*Abt is committed to advancing women’s leadership in PNG’s economic development and are building an environment where women can lead progress and shape economic outcomes. Abt promotes an inclusive, respectful and safe working environment for women and encourages PNG women and men to apply.

This position includes health insurance and supportive workplace for parents and carers, including relevant leave and other benefits including shuttle services to and from work.

About the Program

The Australia–Papua New Guinea Economic Partnership (APEP) is a flagship partnership supporting Papua New Guinea’s economic development priorities. Delivered by the Government of Australia in close collaboration with the Government of Papua New Guinea, APEP focuses on strengthening economic systems, institutions, and opportunities that support sustainable and inclusive growth through to 2028.

Working alongside government, research institutions, and development partners, APEP delivers coordinated and high‑impact outcomes across four key engagement areas:

• Safeguarding Macroeconomic Stability
• Supporting More Efficient and Inclusive Markets
• Fostering Inclusive Growth and Expanded Livelihoods
• Catalysing Economic Research and Dialogue

Gender equality, disability social inclusion (GEDSI), women’s economic empowerment, and climate are central to APEP and integrated across all engagement areas and activities.

About the Opportunity

The Department of Agriculture and Livestock (DAL) supported by the Australia – Papua New Guinea Economic Partnership, seeks a highly qualified Legal Expert to provide comprehensive legal counsel and drafting support for the finalization of the National Seed Policy. The expert will join the Seed Policy Technical Working Group (TWG) to ensure that all proposed policy mechanisms, regulatory frameworks, and legislative clauses are robust, enforceable, and fully aligned with Papua New Guinea’s constitutional framework and administrative law traditions.

The Legal Expert will act as the primary interface between the TWG’s technical agricultural objectives and the statutory requirements of the State of Papua New Guinea. The core objective is to ensure that the new policy does not merely exist on paper but is practically and legally ready for institutional implementation.

This position will play an important role to ensure the effective and efficient implementation of this project and will coordinate implementation of the project activities and deliverables as per the project plan and results framework. 

About You 

For applications to be considered, a response to the Key Selection Criteria below must be provided. 

• Education: Bachelor of Law (LLB) from a recognized university; admission to the PNG Bar is required.
• Experience: Minimum 7–10 years of professional experience in legislative drafting, commercial law, or administrative law, preferably within the PNG public sector or for international development agencies.
• Technical Knowledge: Demonstrated understanding of PNG’s constitutional framework and the legislative process (including the role of the Legislative Counsel), and the requirements for NEC submissions.
• Agricultural Insight: While technical agricultural knowledge is provided by the TWG, the candidate should demonstrate an ability to quickly grasp the complexities of seed systems, biosecurity, and agricultural trade.
• Collaborative Capability: Proven ability to work effectively alongside international technical experts and cross-functional teams in high-stakes project environments.
• Soft Skills: Strong negotiation skills, proficiency in report writing, and the ability to bridge technical jargon/agricultural requirements with clear legal language.

“We value capability and potential, and welcome applicants who believe they can succeed in this role”

For more information on the role and how to apply, please click on ‘GO TO PROVIDER WEBSITE’