The AGS Core Legal Capabilities series supports the development of core capabilities across Commonwealth in-house legal practice. It is designed to strengthen understanding of legal topics fundamental to government legal work, share practical, contemporary insights and to support the critically important contributions of in-house government lawyers.
The series provides a structured overview of 13 core capability topics of relevance to Commonwealth in-house lawyers. It is intended to help participants build awareness of key legal principles and connect knowledge across different areas of government practice.
Upcoming sessions
View allStatutory interpretation
Option 1
Friday 31 July, 2 pm–3 pm 1 hour
Canberra • Online
$220
Statutory interpretation is a core competency for Commonwealth government lawyers, requiring a specialised skill set.
Statutory interpretation is a core competency for Commonwealth government lawyers, requiring a specialised skill set.
Statutory interpretation
Option 2
Wednesday 12 August, 2 pm–3 pm 1 hour
Canberra • Online
$220
Statutory interpretation is a core competency for Commonwealth government lawyers, requiring a specialised skill set.
Statutory interpretation is a core competency for Commonwealth government lawyers, requiring a specialised skill set.
What is the Core Legal Capabilities series?
The Core Legal Capabilities series is structured around 13 core pillars relevant to Commonwealth in-house lawyers, each addressing a fundamental area of government legal practice.
Each topic is designed and delivered by AGS SES subject matter experts.
The series covers the following topics:
- Administrative law
- Commonwealth and Commonwealth bodies
- Commonwealth disputes
- Commonwealth finance law
- Constitutional law
- FOI and privacy
- Government contracts
- Government transactions
- Policy development and the legislative process
- Privileges, immunities and handling of confidential information
- Professional and ethical duties of Commonwealth lawyers
- Public sector employment and
- Statutory interpretation.
Who should attend
The Core Legal Capabilities series is recommended for all lawyers who are new or relatively new, to Commonwealth practice regardless of level (including in-house lawyers from corporate Commonwealth entities). The series is also relevant for in-house government lawyers looking to strengthen or refresh their understanding of core areas of government law.
Program format and features
Sessions are designed to suit online audiences, with some topics also offered in a hybrid format to support in‑person participation. Repeat sessions will be scheduled to provide flexibility for participants who are unable to attend an earlier delivery.
Each topic is delivered through a 60‑minute online presentation and is supported by a short 20‑minute podcast or video that focuses on key knowledge and core concepts.
Course fees are $220 (incl GST) per person, per session. Individuals can register for each session via the link above. Group registrations are available on request; for more information, please email trainingservices@ags.gov.au.
Each training topic will attract CPD points. Attendees are responsible for recording their own CPD attendance.
| Topic | Course outline |
|---|---|
| Commonwealth disputes | Coming soon |
| Statutory interpretation | Statutory interpretation is a core skill for Commonwealth government lawyers. A sound understanding of the principles is essential to provide accurate advice on the interpretation of legislation. The Office of General Counsel will guide participants through the key principles of statutory interpretation, equipping them to adopt a structured and refined approach in their day-to-day practice, as well as spotting complex construction issues that require further advice. The topic includes a podcast case study which provides an illustration of the limits of adopting a purposive interpretation, followed by a talk which gives practical guidance on the general law principles and the Acts Interpretation Act 1901 (Cth). The talk draws on the recent High Court decision in Palmanova v The Commonwealth [2025] FCA 35 to demonstrate these principles. Participants will also have an opportunity to ask questions and connect with fellow government lawyers, in person or online. |