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. |
Frequently asked questions
How do I register to attend Core Legal Capabilities training?
You can register in one of the following ways:
- online: Register and pay by credit card via the AGS website
- by email: Email trainingservices@ags.gov.au with the following details:
- Full name
- Job title
- Work email
- Phone number
- Commonwealth agency
- Division and branch
- Location (city)
An invoice will then be issued for payment by direct deposit.
How do I make a group booking?
To make a group booking, either register each attendee separately online or email trainingservices@ags.gov.au with the registration details listed above for each attendee.
When will I receive access to the podcast or video?
Registered attendees will receive an email containing a link to the podcast or video approximately one week before the relevant training date.
What platform will be used to host the podcast or video?
The podcast or video will be hosted on AGS’s private YouTube channel.
I cannot access the podcast or video through my agency’s network. What should I do?
Some Commonwealth agencies restrict access to YouTube, If you are unable to access AGS’s private YouTube channel through your work network, you may wish to forward the access email to your personal email address and view the podcast or video on a personal device.
Please note that access is provided for your individual learning only and must not be shared with others.
Who should attend the Core Legal Capabilities series?
The Core Legal Capabilities series is recommended for:
- lawyers who are new, or relatively new, to Commonwealth legal practice, regardless of level (including in-house lawyers from corporate Commonwealth entities)
- in-house government lawyers seeking to strengthen or refresh their understanding of core areas of government law.
Can I bring my laptop to an in-person session?
Yes. You are welcome to bring a laptop for note taking purposes. Please note that the training room will be arranged in theatre-style seating.
I can no longer attend. Am I eligible for a refund?
Registrations are non-refundable. However, where circumstances change unexpectedly or an emergency arises, alternative options may be available.
Please email trainingservices@ags.gov.au before the training date to find out the options available to you.