Ports Victoria is a vital Victorian statutory authority ensuring the safe, efficient navigation of commercial vessels through the port waters of Melbourne, Geelong and Hastings. Think marine traffic control for ships—its teams guide large vessels smoothly and safely through some of Australia’s busiest port channels. With around 100 dedicated staff, Ports Victoria operates in a highly regulated maritime safety environment, underpinning Victoria’s economy and global trade connections.

The organisation is collaborative, close-knit and mission-driven. Its culture is warm, approachable and non-hierarchical—you’re never far from the CEO’s door, and open conversations are encouraged at all levels.

This dual-function position is 80% Board Secretariat and 20% Legal Advisory, sitting at the heart of Ports Victoria’s governance and statutory compliance. You’ll be a trusted partner to the executive team and Board, reporting to the CFO while working closely with the CEO and General Counsel (who also oversees Procurement & Contracts). You’ll provide independent legal guidance on statutory and operational matters, particularly FOI, privacy and legislative compliance.

• Manage the end-to-end governance cycle for the Board and three subcommittees (Board meets 9x/year; committees 2–6x/year)

• Draft/manage forward agendas, meeting packs and action registers

• Edit and quality-assure board papers

• Take minutes that clearly capture strategic decisions and actions

• Liaise with CEO, CFO and Chair on agendas and follow-ups

• Ensure statutory compliance across board and committee conduct

• Maintain Board Portal and governance documentation

• Oversee Board induction and development

• Support the General Counsel as required

• Develop internal guidance on obligations under key Acts (e.g. Marine Safety Act, Transport Integration Act, Port Management Act)

• Advise on FOI and privacy issues

• Assist with legal risk management relating to Board decisions, contracts or regulatory exposure

• Coordinate external legal counsel for specialist matters

• Admitted to practice and holding (or eligible for) a current Victorian practising certificate

• Experience as a Legal Counsel or Senior Legal Counsel

• Strong knowledge of public sector governance, FOI/privacy, statutory compliance

• Proven experience supporting boards or formal governance committees

• Exceptional written communication and editorial skills for board-level material

• Calm under pressure, highly organised and able to manage competing priorities

• Experience working with a Board Chair and executive leadership

• Exposure to maritime, transport, infrastructure or high-safety industries (not essential)

• Governance qualifications (GIA, AICD) welcome but not required

• Confident in chasing deadlines and liaising with senior leaders

This is not a narrow advisory role—it’s a trusted, high-impact position at the intersection of law, governance and public decision-making. You’ll work directly with the CEO, CFO and Board Chair, support statutory compliance from within, and help shape governance culture in a critical Victorian authority.

If you value structure and accountability, and thrive in a collaborative, hands-on environment where your work is visible and valued, this role offers:

• Hybrid model: 3 days in office (Port Melbourne or North Geelong)

• Warm, informal culture with direct access to leadership

• Open to part-time candidates (minimum 3 days/week)

If you’re interested, click ‘apply now’ to send your CV, or contact Suras Khosla on (03) 9604 9519 or email suras.khosla@hays.com.au.