Senior Lawyer - Disability Support Services
Date: 22 Jul 2026
Location: Wellington, NZ
Company: Ministry of Social Development
• Permanent full-time opportunity available
• Preferred location for this role is Wellington, however applications from Auckland and Christchurch will be considered.
About our team | Mō te tīma
The Disability Support Services (DSS) Group within MSD works to ensure fair access to disability support services in New Zealand, prioritising those with the greatest needs. Through the DSS Review Programme, the Group is focused on implementing key recommendations to deliver consistent, equitable services, prioritize high-needs individuals, and strengthen the long-term sustainability of DSS, all while upholding Enabling Good Lives (EGL) principles.
About the role | Mō te tūnga
As the Senior Lawyer you will provide legal expertise, skills, and knowledge in the delivery of quality legal services (QLS) to MSD.
You will provide legal advice to Senior Managers on a range of operational, public law and corporate issues facing Disability Support Services to identify legal risk and ensure we meet our legal obligations in a way that betters outcomes for disabled people.
There is an opportunity for you to diversify and develop your skill set in different areas such as public, litigation and procurement and contract law. We value diversity and welcome applications from disabled people and those who have lived experience with whānau, or the disability community.
Please contact us if there is any support that we can provide to ensure the recruitment process is accessible to you.
What you bring | Ōu pūmanawatanga
• Experience as a generalist Barrister and Solicitor with a practicing certificate or be eligible for one.
• A strong understanding of public sector legal issues relevant to the Ministry’s business.
• Previous experience providing quality legal services to clients, including pro-actively anticipating client need and communicating effectively (both oral and written).
• Previous experience coaching and upskilling others.
• Proven ability to engage with diverse stakeholders and work collaboratively towards fair resolutions.
Position Description | He Whakaahuatanga Tūnga
Salary | Utu-ā-tau: $122,381.00 - $152,296.00
Applications close | Ka kati ngā tono hei te: Friday 7th August, 2026.
About us | Mō mātou
The Ministry of Social Development (MSD) is a people-centred organisation. We’re in communities across the motu, working with partners to help New Zealanders be safe, strong and independent.
We provide social policy advice to government, and assistance including income, employment and housing support to people of all ages, families, whānau and communities.
As a Te Tiriti o Waitangi partner, we are committed to supporting and enabling Māori, whānau, hapū, Iwi and communities to realise their own potential and aspirations.
Our people are as diverse as the communities we serve. We care about the wellbeing and success of our people and provide a supportive and inclusive working environment where people can thrive and be who they are.
How to apply | Me pēhea te tuku tono
Before you submit your application, please take a moment to review our guidance to understand how AI can best support your application. Candidate Guidance - Responsible AI use in recruitment
To apply, click the 'Apply Now' button to upload your CV, cover letter and complete the online application form.
Note: Your cover letter will be a key part of our assessment process. Please highlight how your skills and experience relate to the key responsibilities listed in the position description and job advertisement.
All applications must be made online. If this is not possible or if you have any queries, please contact us at jobs@msd.govt.nz
Internal MSD Employees – please apply through your myHR portal at work. This will ensure that your myHR employee profile is visible as internal candidate.
Joining us | Ko te hono mai
Joining MSD means being part of a whānau that celebrates the diversity each individual represents.
We show manaaki, we care about the wellbeing and success of people and want everyone to thrive and be who they are in a supportive and inclusive working environment. We work together to make a difference for communities while doing the right thing with integrity. You can find out more about our values here.
If you have any support or accessibility requirements, we encourage you to tell us when you apply so we can assist you through the recruitment process.
