Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions

    The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) represents the State in criminal cases. The community’s interest is that the guilty be brought to justice and the innocent not be wrongly convicted. The main function of the ODPP is to prosecute criminal matters in the Magistrates (limited), District, Supreme and Mental Health Courts, the Court of Appeal and the High Court of Australia.

    There are three aspects to the work of the ODPP:

    • legal preparation
    • court appearances
    • victim liaison work.

    Director of Public Prosecutions

    The Director is an independent statutory officer appointed under the Director of Public Prosecutions Act 1984.

    Director’s Guidelines

    The decision to prosecute or not must be based upon the evidence, the law and the Director's Guidelines (PDF, 1.6 MB). The Director’s Guidelines assist the exercise of prosecutorial decisions to ensure the administration of justice is:

    • consistent
    • efficient
    • effective
    • transparent.

    ODPP Annual Reports

    More information about the ODPP is contained in our annual reports.

    Support for victims of crime

    The ODPP has an obligation under the Victims of Crime Assistance Act 2009 to treat victims with courtesy, compassion and respect. The ODPP provide information to victims of crime regarding the court process and referral to agencies including Victims Assist Queensland (VAQ).

    As an organisation

    We value results, professional growth, workforce diversity and a balance between work and life commitments.

    Staff are actively encouraged and supported as individuals and have access to excellent working conditions, a range of work experiences, learning and development opportunities.

    Entry level/paralegal employment opportunities

    If you are interested in employment opportunities with the ODPP please submit an application to: dppjobs@justice.qld.gov.au

    How to apply

    Applications should include:

    • current resume, including names and contact details of two referees with knowledge of your work performance and experience
    • cover letter expressing your interest in the position
    • copy of your academic transcript.

    Please send completed applications to dppjobs@justice.qld.gov.au

    Work Experience Placement Program (WEPP)

    We offer a 4-week work experience placement program (WEPP) to law students who have a genuine interest in criminal law.

    WEPP students gain practical experience by:

    • being exposed to a wide variety of criminal law matters
    • working as part of a professional team
    • developing a comprehensive knowledge of the criminal justice system
    • gaining skills through professional development opportunities.

    2020 Programs

    • Autumn—14 April 2020 to 8 May 2020
    • Winter—22 June 2020 to 17 July 2020
    • Summer—16 November 2020 to 18 December 2020*

    (*4-week placement dates to be confirmed closer to the date)

    What we look for

    People who:

    • can think on their feet
    • are team players who can work under pressure with minimal supervision
    • understand the criminal justice system
    • can manage time effectively
    • are skilled communicators with excellent negotiation, advocacy and interpersonal skills
    • possess strong administrative, organisational, word processing and database skills.

    More information

    For more information, please contact your relevant university work experience coordinator at:

    Last updated:
    11 February 2020
    Last published:
    11 February 2020