The opportunity
This is a unique opportunity for an experienced workers compensation lawyer.  As Manager Scheme Legal, you will work closely with the Leader Legal Services to protect the integrity and viability of the Scheme by managing significant legal cases and providing authoritative advice on complex and emerging legal issues.

The role provides exposure to executive governance, strategic litigation and legislative reform, while also offering the opportunity to lead and develop a small legal team that sits within Legal Services.

You will have meaningful exposure to strategic litigation, tribunal proceedings, statutory interpretation and organisational decision-making, while developing trusted relationships across the business and with external legal stakeholders. 

The role suits someone who enjoys depth, complexity and influence, and who values working in a purpose-driven environment. 

The position
The Manager Scheme Legal manages the Scheme Legal team, which is a small team that sits within the Legal Services team and plays a critical role in managing significant cases that have the ability to impact the viability of the Scheme.  In this role you will:

• Identify, manage and intervene (where necessary) in strategically important legal matters
• Provide expert legal advice on workers compensation, Scheme boundaries and emerging risks
• Support the Strategic Litigation Panel through clear, well-judged advice
• Build strong relationships with the legal service providers and key stakeholders
• Assist the Leader Legal Services in delivering business-focused, pragmatic legal solutions
• Lead and develop a small team, fostering a responsive and high-performing culture
• Contribute to legislative changes and Scheme-wide education and guidance

This is a hands-on role suited to a senior practitioner who enjoys both legal complexity and leadership responsibility.

This is an ongoing position offered on a full‑time basis, with flexible arrangements considered.

About you
You are a respected legal practitioner with a strong background in workers compensation with a reputation for sound judgment, integrity and collaborative leadership.

You will bring:

• Significant experience in managing complex and high-risk legal matters
• Strong knowledge of workers compensation legislation and dispute resolution
• The ability to interpret and apply legislation pragmatically and strategically
• A calm, diplomatic and considered approach, particularly under pressure
• Well-developed leadership skills and experience in supporting and developing others
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to explain complex issues clearly
• A values-led mindset, with a genuine commitment to fairness, accountability and service

Most importantly you will be someone who can be trusted as an advisor and leader, who works collaboratively and who is motivated by achieving meaningful outcomes for the Scheme.

About ReturnToWorkSA
At ReturnToWorkSA, our purpose is to empower and support South Australians impacted by work injury.

Our services, and those delivered by our claims agents, provide early intervention to workers and employers following a work injury to promote recovery and return to work.

We collect premium from registered employers and manage our invested funds to ensure the Return to Work Scheme remains financially viable and in a position to provide quality support and services to injured workers and employers.

In addition to our role as an insurer, we are the regulator of the Scheme,  protecting  integrity and fairness by monitoring and enforcing compliance with the Return to Work Act 2014 (SA) and providing education and support regarding the health benefits of work.

Why join us? 
Experience a workplace culture that rewards your contribution and provides you with development and support to help you reach your potential.  We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where our people can genuinely make a difference to the lives of South Australians impacted by work injury.

At ReturnToWorkSA, you can expect a range of benefits including:

• Working in a friendly, collegiate environment
• An extensive wellbeing program
  • access to a broad range of wellbeing seminars, webinars and information sessions
  • a free onsite gym and bike storage
  • discounted corporate private health insurance
  • and a proactive EAP provider
• Flexible work options including part time and working from home
• Access to learning and development programs to enhance your personal and professional skill set and career development
• Modern offices with excellent amenities in the Adelaide CBD

Special requirements/Conditions

• A Bachelor of Laws, a current Practising Certificate and at least 5 years PAE
• Extensive experience in South Australian workers compensation and dispute management
• A deep understanding of relevant legislation and regulatory frameworks
• Strong leadership and stakeholder engagement capabilities
• Appointment is subject to appropriate pre-employment checks

Further information
Candidates will also be assessed based on their ability to demonstrate personal and professional alignment with ReturnToWorkSA’s organisational values which are critical to our success: We care about people and sustainability; We are inclusive and innovative; We listen to understand, and We own our actions.

 Manager Scheme Legal - Position Description - July 2025.pdf

The salary range for this position is aligned with the Mercer CED Job Evaluation framework. The final offer will be commensurate with the successful candidate’s qualifications, skills and experience.

How to apply
Please submit a cover letter demonstrating your key capabilities and experience supported by your current resume addressed to Amanda Trudgian – Leader Legal Services, by COB Thursday 30 April 2026.  If you would like to discuss the position further, Amanda can be contacted on 08 8233 2155.

Shortlisting and interviews may commence prior to the closing date, so early applications are encouraged.

Inclusion and acceptance
ReturnToWorkSA is an equal opportunity employer, valuing difference and embracing diversity and we promote flexible ways of working, applicants are encouraged to discuss any workplace adjustments that might be needed as well as the flexible working arrangements for this role.

Still not sure?
We are proud to be recognised as an Endorsed Employer for All Women by WORK180. Research indicates that up to 60% of women and underrepresented groups may hesitate to proceed, even after completing a draft application. We firmly believe that diversity enhances the strength of every team, so even if you do not tick all the boxes we still want to hear from you.