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• Build a Legacy: Lead transformative projects shaping the future of Port Moresby
• Grow Your Career in a dynamic urban environment
• Join a passionate team dedicated to a stronger, more vibrant capital.

NC Salary Grade: NC 11
Location: NCDC City Hall, Waigani, National Capital District
Reporting to: Manager – Family, Welfare & GBV Services

About the National Capital District Commission (NCDC)

The National Capital District Commission (NCDC) is the statutory authority responsible for governing and managing Papua New Guinea’s capital city, Port Moresby.

Unlike other parts of PNG that fall under provincial administrations, Port Moresby sits within a unique administrative area – the National Capital District (NCD) established under its own Act of Parliament. The NCDC is mandated to plan, manage, regulate and shape the capital city on behalf of its residents, communities, and the nation as a whole.

As the gateway to Papua New Guinea, Port Moresby plays a critical national role. The NCDC’s responsibilities extend beyond routine municipal services to include city-wide planning, regulation, infrastructure coordination, social development, and institutional reform in a rapidly growing and complex urban environment.

About the Role

The Legal Officer is a specialist position within the Family & GEWE (Gender Equity and Women Empowerment) Branch of the Community & Social Development Division. Based at NCDC City Hall in Waigani, this role operates at the intersection of legal advocacy, network building, and policy formulation. The position involves high-level stakeholder engagement, including representing clients in court and managing partnerships with legal firms, pro bono practitioners, and universities. Dealing with sensitive cases involving abuse, neglect, and gender-based violence (GBV), the role requires a professional with deep resilience, ethical conduct, and a strong commitment to human rights.

Role Purpose

Reporting to the Manager – Family, Welfare & GBV Services, the primary purpose of this role is to facilitate access to justice for women, children, and marginalized groups in Port Moresby. The Officer is responsible for developing a robust network of legal professionals to provide pro bono aid to vulnerable clients while simultaneously creating capacity-building opportunities for legal students. Beyond individual casework, the role is instrumental in drafting and shaping NCDC policies and strategies related to social inclusion and gender equity, ensuring they align with national goals to protect the city's most vulnerable populations.

Key Responsibilities

• Provision of Legal Advice and Guidance: Provide legal advice to women and children, ensuring they understand their rights and options. Guide clients through legal processes and refer complex cases to pro bono legal practitioners or organisations.
• Coordination of Pro Bono Legal Services: Establish and maintain a network of law firms and legal professionals to provide pro bono services. Manage a referral system to match cases effectively and monitor the network’s performance to ensure timely and equitable assistance.
• Policy Development and Advocacy: Research and draft policies to strengthen protections for women and children. Collaborate with stakeholders to address gaps in the legal framework and advocate for reforms promoting gender equality, child protection, and access to justice.

Education & Qualifications

• A bachelor’s degree in Law, or a related field is mandatory.
• Admitted to practice law in PNG is mandatory.
• Current membership and practicing certificate from the Papua New Guinea Law Society
• Certified Social Welfare practioner
• Certification or training in human rights, gender-based violence (GBV), or child protection is an advantage.
• Drivers license (minimum class 3) a distinct advantage.
• Grade twelve certificate mandatory.

Skills & Knowledge

• Legal Frameworks: Comprehensive understanding of PNG laws including the Family Protection Act 2013 and the Lukautim Pikinini Act 2015, and their relevance to family law and GBV cases.
• Judicial Processes: Knowledge of court systems, legal procedures, and case management for child protection and family welfare.
• Pro Bono Legal Service Coordination: Knowledge of establishing and managing systems for case referrals, engaging pro bono practitioners, and evaluating their contributions to ensure equitable and effective service delivery.
• Child Protection and Gender-Based Violence: Understanding of child protection principles and strategies to address GBV through legal and social interventions.
• Community Outreach: Familiarity with developing and delivering awareness programs about legal rights and available services.
• Data Management: Ability to handle case documentation and databases while maintaining confidentiality and compliance with data protection laws.
• Policy Advocacy: Knowledge of policy development and advocacy to address legal gaps and improve access to justice.
• International Standards: Awareness of global conventions, such as the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC), and their application to local contexts.
• Legal Expertise and Analysis: Skilled in legal research, interpreting laws and regulations, and analyzing gaps to inform case strategies and policy reforms.
• Stakeholder Engagement and Relationship Building: Strong ability to engage with law firms, NGOs, government agencies, and community leaders, fostering productive partnerships.
• Crisis management and decision making: Adept at managing high-pressure situations, especially in sensitive cases involving child protection or gender-based violence.
• Communications and Advocacy: Advanced written and verbal communication skills, including report writing, advocacy, and public speaking for diverse audiences.
• Project Management and Coordination: Proven ability to organize and manage multiple initiatives, ensuring timely delivery and alignment with strategic goals.
• Data management and confidentiality: Proficient in maintaining accurate case records, managing databases, and ensuring compliance with confidentiality standard.
• Community Engagement and cultural sensitivity: High level of empathy and cultural awareness, with experience designing and delivering inclusive outreach programs.
• Policy Development and strategic planning: Skilled in drafting policies, aligning local strategies with national frameworks, and advocating for systemic improvements
• Dedication to service: Must be dedicated to the advancement of NCDC, its goals, and vision for Port Moresby.

Work Experience

• At least 3–5 years of legal sector experience in legal aid, family law, or human rights law, focusing on vulnerable populations like women and children.
• At least 3-5 years experience in representing clients in court
• Experience in engaging pro bono practitioners and facilitating partnerships.
• Experience contributing to policy development, legal research, and advocacy efforts.
• Experience handling sensitive cases involving abuse, neglect, or gender-based violence, demonstrating resilience and the ability to work under pressure.

Why Join NCDC?

This role offers a unique opportunity to influence how data shapes the future of Papua New Guinea’s capital city. You will work at the centre of urban development, infrastructure planning, and service delivery—contributing to projects that leave a lasting legacy for Port Moresby.

Ready to Make an Impact?

If you are passionate about data-driven decision-making and city transformation, we encourage you to apply.

How to Apply

Interested candidates are encouraged to:

• Review the available roles and position requirements
• Prepare to upload relevant supporting documentation
  1. Cover Letter
  2. Up-to-date CV, include in the one file along with your CV: copies of educational qualifications and a copy of a valid driver's licence (if applicable)

Click on the "APPLY NOW" button and submit an application through the Peopleconnexion PNG application portal.

Open to Port Moresby residents only.

Due to volume of candidates, only short-listed candidates will be contacted regarding applicant progress.

Applications are assessed on merit, capability, and alignment with NCDC’s values and service mandate.

Be part of the team shaping the future of Port Moresby — apply today.

To Apply

To apply, email your CV and other relevant documentation to [email protected]. Please include the Job ID "#25984" in the email's subject to ensure your application is processed.