Legal Officer for APEP Program

About the role

The Legal Officer will support contracting, compliance activities and provide in‑house legal advisory for the Australia‑PNG Economic Partnership (APEP) program based in Port Moresby. The role works closely with procurement, finance and the Legal and Contracts Community of Practice.

Key responsibilities

• Provide legal advisory services, draft briefs and lead complex contract drafting and negotiations.
• Advise on legislative compliance and manage the compliance framework for Abt Associates PNG operations.
• Support procurement with complex tender processes, ensuring compliance with Australian Commonwealth Procurement Rules and program manuals.
• Conduct contracting due diligence, including list checks, company registrations and safeguarding assessments.
• Manage in‑country contracting across construction, HR, subcontracting and grants, including drafting and negotiations.
• Maintain contracts and grants registers and support related reporting.
• Act as Fraud Control Officer, handling fraud reporting, mitigation and training.
• Deliver compliance training, risk analysis and promote value‑for‑money principles.
• Assist in developing contracting templates, tools and process improvements.

Required profile

• Bachelor of Law degree and admission to practice law in Papua New Guinea.
• Current Restricted Practicing Certificate or ability to obtain one.
• 1–3 years relevant legal experience, preferably in commercial, company, contract or employment law.

Required skills

• Contract drafting and negotiation.
• Legal advisory and legislative compliance.
• Knowledge of Australian Commonwealth Procurement Rules and DFAT guidance.
• Fraud control and reporting.
• Commissioner of Oaths services.