Why work at VALS?
Join the best
VALS is made up of Victoria’s most committed legal advocates, professionals and support staff who work to advance Aboriginal self-determination and the rights of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in Victoria of all ages.
We know that our people make the difference. VALS is committed to diversity, equality and inclusion. We celebrate our team of diverse Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, LGBTQIA+ and individuals from different cultures, language groups and experiences.
Grow, develop and be rewarded
You will have:
- Opportunities to work on diverse matters and gain significant experience.
- Opportunities to develop your own expertise and collaborate with colleagues and partners in projects, policy and legal reform
- Access to generous staff benefits such as salary packaging options, flexible working arrangement, TOIL, pre-purchased leave, paid parental, carer and cultural leave and much more.
- 11% Superannuation
- 17.5% Leave Loading
- 5 extra days leave on top of 20 days annual leave
- Only required to work 35 hours per week, any extra hours worked will be calculated as your Time In Lieu (TOIL) – which you may use as additional leave hours
- Access to company vehicles for any work-related trips
- Salary packaging is available via Maxxia11
Available positions
Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander designated positions
These positions are classified under Section 12 Special Measures of the Equal Opportunity Act 2010, and only available to Australian Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people
Salary Offering $78,402.32 – $84,357.55 (VALS CPB 1.1 – 1.4) plus 11.5% Superannuation
This is an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander designated position, classified under Section 12 Special Measures of the Equal Opportunity Act 2010. This employment opportunity is only available to Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
Additional Benefits:
- 17.5% Leave Loading
- 5 extra days leave on top of 20 days annual leave
- Only required to work 35 hours per week, any extra hours worked will be calculated as your Time In Lieu (TOIL) – which you may use as additional leave hours
- Access to company vehicles for any work-related trips
- Salary packaging is available via Maxxia
Office Locations: 279 Hargreaves Street, Bendigo, Vic, 3550
This role is full-time fixed term until 30th of June 2025(renewal subject to ongoing funding for new financial year in July 2025)
Application ends on 4th April 2025.
OVERVIEW OF THE ROLE
The CSO is the key cultural interface between Aboriginal Community members, VALS’ lawyers’ and the court. The CSO helps address barriers Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people face in engaging with criminal, family and civil justice processes. The CSO works as a part of a multi-disciplinary team with lawyers, paralegals and other CSOs and administrative officers. Acting as the interface between clients, lawyers’ and court personnel to support the client to understand and navigate court proceedings and attend court as required, the CSO will assess clients’ non-legal needs.
Following the assessment of need, and identification of risk, the CSO provides short term intensive case work, whilst ensuring active/warm referrals for ongoing case management as needed. The CSO will work with external agencies as part of a care team to address client needs. CSOs attend court as determined in each of the regional hubs and following safety assessments, undertake specific client contact, for example home visits / welfare checks / transporting clients. Each CSO will maintain an up to date an up-to-date knowledge of services and organisations in their region. In addition the CSO acts as the representative of VALS in and with the community and at external meetings, such as RAJACs. CSOs may provide input into VALS policy and advocacy work as requested.
WHAT A DAY AS A CLIENT SUPPORT OFFICER LOOKS LIKE:
- Provide a case work response to assisting VALS clients including assessing needs and risk and collaborating with other services.
- Attend court to support the client and the solicitor as needed in each region.
- Provide transport assistance, undertake welfare checks, make warm referrals and advocate on the client’s behalf.
- Reassure the client and explain legal terminology and processes used by the courts and legal profession, not using legal jargon. Where appropriate, take notes of the history of the client’s case and provide them to the solicitor. Request supporting documentation on behalf of the client, and lodge court documents as required by lawyer.
- Undertake community engagement activities, maintain knowledge base regarding local services, referral pathways and programs.
- Liaise with relevant Government agencies and other persons within the legal system to ensure delivery of a culturally relevant service.
- Represent VALS at various meetings and forums, and report back on those meetings to VALS management.
- Perform a range of administrative tasks to ensure the effective delivery of services to VALS clients. This includes providing activity reports on a timely basis, attending staff meetings as required, and ensuring that case notes and data is entered into the VALS client management system.
- Participate in ongoing training and staff development and act and remain professional at all times, upholding VALS values.
As directed, undertake other duties as directed which are incidental and peripheral to the main tasks, provided that such duties are reasonably within the employee’s skills, competence, and training.
PERSONAL ACCOUNTABILITY:
- Compliance with all VALS values, code of conduct, policies and procedures and relevant government legislation and standards where relevant.
- Demonstrate a commitment to the principles of social justice and aim to ensure every individual is treated with dignity and respect regardless of their background, ability, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation or religion.
- Ensure appropriate use of resources.
- Actively participate in initiatives to maintain, build upon and promote a positive and collaborative workplace.
- Take reasonable care for your own health & safety, and health and safety of others (to extent required)
- Maintain own self-care and wellbeing with support of line management.
- Promptly respond to and report health and safety hazards, incidents and near misses to management.
- Attend mandatory training sessions (ie. equal employment opportunity, health and safety, cultural safety) and mandatory training specific to position.
KEY SELECTION CRITERIA:
- Hold a certificate, diploma or degree in community services, social work or another relevant field. If does not hold certificate or degree, can demonstrate work experience within the community services sector, and/or, a willingness to obtain a relevant qualification, supported by VALS.
- A demonstrated knowledge of the Victorian legal system.
- An understanding of the legal issues and barriers faced by Victorian Aboriginal communities.
- Demonstrated links to, and experience in engaging the local Aboriginal community.
- Developed written, verbal communication and interpersonal skills including the ability to liaise effectively with clients and provide client service in a professional manner while maintaining confidentiality and discretion.
- Ability to take direction, determine priorities, and manage own workload in order to meet agreed timelines and objectives.
- The ability to work in a multi-disciplinary environment, and as a member of a team, or independently with minimal supervision.
- Demonstrated computer literacy skills and proficiency using Microsoft Office and other relevant software.
MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS:
On offer of this position, you must provide:
- Copy of your current Employee Working with Children Card.
- You will be required to complete a current Criminal History Police Check.
- Proof of rights to work in Australia, i.e., a copy of an Australian Passport, Birth Certificate, or Immigration VISA documentation
- Current valid Australian Driver’s Licence
This is an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander designated position, classified under Section 12 Special Measures of the Equal Opportunity Act 2010. This employment opportunity is only available to Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
Salary Offering: $78,402.32– $84,357.5 (VALS CPB 1.1 – 1.4) per annum., depending on experience plus 11.5% Superannuation
Additional Benefits:
- 17.5% Leave Loading
- 5 extra days leave on top of 20 days annual leave
- Only required to work 35 hours per week, any extra hours worked will be calculated as your Time In Lieu (TOIL) – which you may use as additional leave hours
- Access to company vehicles for any work-related trips
- Salary packaging of up to $15,900+ per FBT available via Maxxia
Office Locations: Maude Street, Shepparton
This role is full-time fixed term until 30 June 2028.
This position may require regional travel.
OVERVIEW OF THE ROLE:
The Aboriginal Community Engagement Worker works as part a multidisciplinary team with Balit Ngulu youth lawyers. The ACE Worker works alongside Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander young people (clients) to:
- Promote cultural safety.
- Develop and implement plans that keep the young person safe, support their diversion from the youth justice system and build their resilience.
- Provide transport to and from court and other appointments with the client, including attending court and appointments with them. For instance, acting as a source of support and advice for them at court, interviews, and other formal meetings.
- Represent and promote Balit Ngulu and participate in client case planning processes with partner agencies.
- Maintain accurate and timely records of contacts with and for clients and undertake other administrative tasks consistent with VALS policies and procedures.
- As directed, undertake other duties that are incidental and peripheral to main tasks, provided such duties are reasonably within the employee’s skills and competence
KEY SELECTION CRITERIA:
Essential
- Lived experience in an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander community(ies) with demonstrated knowledge of issues that impact access to justice and support services for Aboriginal children and young people, ideally in Victoria.
- A Certificate IV in Youth Work, Diploma in Youth Work and/or equivalent experience. If not at Diploma level, must be willing to undertake relevant professional qualification (which will be supported by VALS).
- Demonstrated experience working with Aboriginal young people.
- Excellent written, verbal communication and interpersonal skills.
- The ability to work in a multi-disciplinary environment including assertively and respectfully with partners, including ACCOs and persons working within Victorian courts, police, youth justice and child protection and residential care services.
- Good computer skills.
Desirable
- Knowledge of Victorian legal system, including an understanding of the Children, Youth and Families Act 2005 and key amendments and associated policies and guidelines relevant to youth justice. This includes Children’s Court practices and procedures.
- Work within the not-for-profit sector, ideally within an ACCO.
- Experience of working as part of a whole-family and whole-community approach to supporting clients.
MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS:
On offer of this position, you must provide:
- Copy of your current Employee Working with Children Card.
- You will be required to complete a current Criminal History Police Check.
- Up to date vaccination certificate or valid medical exemption
- Proof of rights to work in Australia, i.e., a copy of an Australian Passport, Birth Certificate, or Immigration VISA documentation
- Current valid Victorian Driver’s Licence
- Copies of any certificates or degrees relevant to this role
Salary Offering $78,402.32 – $84,357.55
Please note, this is an Aboriginal and Torres Islander identified position. Only Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are eligible to apply as this position is exempt under the special measures provision of S12(1) of the Equal Opportunity Act (VIC).
OVERVIEW:
The Baggarrook Woman’s Transitional Housing Program “Program” has been established to assist eligible Aboriginal woman who have been released from prison to make a successful reintegration into the community after their release.
The Program incorporates six transitional houses and post release support to Aboriginal woman exiting prison, with VALS and Aboriginal Housing Victoria (AHV) working together to deliver the program.
VALS Baggarrook Program Officers work 1:1 with women participants to support their goals and pursuit of suitable long-term housing and independence. This includes working in partnership with other agencies, including culturally safe health providers, housing services, family violence programs, drug and alcohol services and community groups.
Office Locations: High Street, Preston and frequent travel to Braybrook hub.
This role is full-time fixed term until 30th June2025.
This position may require regional and very occasional interstate travel.
What A Day as A Baggarrook Program Officer Looks Like:
- Building good working relationships with women participants and key services
- Providing 1:1 support to clients exiting prison for 6 months, with the potential of this taking place over 12 months. This can include transporting women to and from appointments and attending appointments with them to support their confidence building and independent living skills.
- Leveraging existing knowledge and networks to support the women to be referred to, or engage with potential community housing options.
- Undertaking and monitoring of risk and safety assessments, including MARAM for the program and for individual clients.
- Conducting referrals and linking in with organisations to ensure that women’s needs are met, including ensuring that these are culturally safe and appropriate.
- Liaising with prison staff that are undertaking assessments and referrals into the program, as well as regularly attending and running workshops in the prison environment
- Recording interactions with women participants consistent with VALS client management policies and procedures.
- Contributing to the development of positive relationships between the local Koori community and community services,
- Attending and participating in staff, partner organisation and community meetings.
- Liaising and networking with other Aboriginal organisations and mainstream agencies to promote the program.
- Complete quarterly reporting requirements as required by the Department of Justice and Community Safety.
- As directed, undertake other duties which are incidental and peripheral to the main tasks, provided that such duties are reasonably within the employee’s skills, competence and training.
Key Selection Criteria
- Excellent relationship building skills with people with complex needs and behaviours such as trauma, alcohol, drugs and disabilities.
- Experience of working 1:1 with service users, ideally service users with complex needs.
- Proven experience of working within, and an active knowledge of the current housing and homeless sector.
- A demonstrated knowledge of the Victorian legal system and an understanding of the legal issues faced by Victorian Aboriginal communities.
- Excellent written, verbal communication and interpersonal skills.
- The ability to work in a multi-skilled environment.
- Good computing skills.
Desirable
- Demonstrated experience and/or qualifications in case management.
- Experience working in the not-for-profit sector, ideally with an Aboriginal community controlled organisation.
This is an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander designated position, classified under Section 12 Special Measures of the Equal Opportunity Act 2010.
This opportunity is only available to Australian Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people.
Salary Offering: $78,402.32 – $84,357.55 (VALS CPB 1.1 – 1.4), depending on experience plus Superannuation
Office based: Preston, VIC 3072
Work hours and arrangement: This role is part-time 21 hours per week fixed term until 30 June 2026, extensions are subject to performance and funding availability.
Additional Benefits:
- 17.5% Leave Loading
- 5 extra days leave on top of 20 days annual leave
- Only required to work 21 hours per week, any extra hours worked will be calculated as your Time In Lieu (TOIL) – which you may use as additional leave hours
- Access to company vehicles for any work-related trips
- Salary packaging of up to $15,900+ per FBT available via Maxxia
OVERVIEW OF THE ROLE
As a DART Worker, you will assist the Children’s Court in identifying when a young Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander person (client) has a disability and will enable the presiding judicial officer to be better informed about any forms of disability the client may have.
You will build rapport and support the young Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander client in completing required screening processes and provide further referrals of allied health services where required.
This role is a partnership collaboration between VALS & Melbourne City Mission.
KEY SELECTION CRITERIA
Essential
- Tertiary qualification and/or demonstrated experience working in the Community Services sector (Disability, Mental Health, Housing, Justice).
- Demonstrated experience working with young Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people.
- Excellent written, verbal communication and interpersonal skills.
- The ability to work in a multi-disciplinary environment including assertively and respectfully with partners, including ACCOs and persons working within Victorian courts, police, youth justice and child protection and residential care services.
- Excellent computer skills.
Desirable
- Knowledge of the Victorian legal system, including an understanding of the Children, Youth and Families Act 2005 and key amendments and associated policies and guidelines relevant to youth justice. This includes Children’s Court practices and procedures.
- Experience working within the not-for-profit sector, ideally within an ACCO.
- Experience of working as part of a whole-family and whole-community approach to supporting clients.
- Experience working with people living with a disability.
- Knowledge of the NDIS Act 2013, Disability Act 2006, and experience working in a NDIS environment.
MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS:
On offer of this position, you must provide:
- Copy of your current Employee Working with Children Card.
- You will be required to complete a current Criminal History Police Check.
- Up to date vaccination certificate or valid medical exemption
- Proof of rights to work in Australia, i.e., a copy of an Australian Passport, Birth Certificate, or Immigration VISA documentation
- Current valid Victorian Driver’s Licence
- Copies of any certificates or degrees relevant to this role
Positions open to all applicants
Salary Offering: $100K – 115K depending on experience plus 11.5% Superannuation
Additional Benefits:
- 17.5% Leave Loading
- 5 extra days leave on top of 20 days annual leave
- Only required to work 35 hours per week, any extra hours worked will be calculated as your Time In Lieu (TOIL) – which you may use as additional leave hours
- Access to company vehicles for any work-related trips
- Salary packaging of up to $15,900+ per FBT available via Maxxia
Office Locations: 279 Hargreaves Street, Bendigo VIC 3550
This role is full-time fixed term until 30 June 2025 (aligned with the funding cycle)
This position may require regional and very occasional interstate travel.
OVERVIEW OF THE ROLE:
The Regional Practice Lead will have 4+ years of practical experience in Family law and act as a lead advocate for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people interacting with the civil justice system across region. This position will:
- Provide high quality legal services in Family Law matters, including duty lawyer services, representation, advice and information to Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people in Victoria.
- Engage with Aboriginal community stakeholders to identify key community legal education (CLE) needs relevant to the regional and local context.
- Link with, and oversee the development of, partnerships and referral and support pathways within the Mildura region to assist VALS clients with access to other legal assistance and services relevant to them. This includes oversight of Aboriginal client service officers (CSOs) and administrative support based at one of our Regional Offices.
The role holder will have the endorsement or is eligible to become a Panel Certifier on Victorian Legal Aid (VLA) Family Law Panel.
KEY SELECTION CRITERIA:
- Admitted or eligible for admission as a legal practitioner in Victoria and in the High Court of Australia (with an unrestricted practicing certificate)
- Demonstrated ability to act as an advocate, deliver information, advice, casework and outreach services, and undertake negotiation and dispute resolution on behalf of VALS clients in Family Violence, Intervention Orders and, to a lesser extent, Family Law and Child Protection matters.
- Knowledge of, and 4+ years of practical experience in relevant Family Violence, Intervention Orders, Family Law and Child Protection law and procedure.
- Skills and experience to manage, supervise and develop solicitors, paralegals and CSO’s
- Sound interpersonal skills and the capacity to communicate effectively with members of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community and more broadly with multidisciplinary colleagues and VALS partners
- A commitment to and understanding of VALS and the legal issues faced by members of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities in Victoria;
- Competency in the use of MS Office Software (particularly MS Word, Excel, E-mail) and the capacity to quickly acquire competency in the use of VALS’ client management system.
MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS:
On offer of this position, you must provide:
- Copy of your current Employee Working with Children Card.
- You will be required to complete a current Criminal History Police Check.
- Up to date vaccination certificate or valid medical exemption
- Proof of rights to work in Australia, i.e., a copy of an Australian Passport, Birth Certificate, or Immigration VISA documentation
- Current valid Victorian Driver’s Licence
- Copies of any certificates or degrees relevant to this role
Salary Offering: $100K – 115K depending on experience plus 11.5% Superannuation
Additional Benefits:
- 17.5% Leave Loading
- 5 extra days leave on top of 20 days annual leave
- Only required to work 35 hours per week, any extra hours worked will be calculated as your Time In Lieu (TOIL) – which you may use as additional leave hours
- Access to company vehicles for any work-related trips
- Salary packaging of up to $15,900+ per FBT available via Maxxia
Office Locations: 150 Commerical Road, Morwell, Victoria
This role is full-time fixed term until 30 June 2025(aligned with the funding cycle)
This position may require regional and very occasional interstate travel.
OVERVIEW OF THE ROLE:
The Regional Practice Lead will have 4+ years of practical experience in Family law and act as a lead advocate for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people interacting with the civil justice system across region. This position will:
- Provide high quality legal services in Family Law matters, including duty lawyer services, representation, advice and information to Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people in Victoria.
- Engage with Aboriginal community stakeholders to identify key community legal education (CLE) needs relevant to the regional and local context.
- Link with, and oversee the development of, partnerships and referral and support pathways within the Mildura region to assist VALS clients with access to other legal assistance and services relevant to them. This includes oversight of Aboriginal client service officers (CSOs) and administrative support based at one of our Regional Offices.
The role holder will have the endorsement or is eligible to become a Panel Certifier on Victorian Legal Aid (VLA) Family Law Panel.
KEY SELECTION CRITERIA:
- Admitted or eligible for admission as a legal practitioner in Victoria and in the High Court of Australia (with an unrestricted practicing certificate)
- Demonstrated ability to act as an advocate, deliver information, advice, casework and outreach services, and undertake negotiation and dispute resolution on behalf of VALS clients in Family Violence, Intervention Orders and, to a lesser extent, Family Law and Child Protection matters.
- Knowledge of, and 4+ years of practical experience in relevant Family Violence, Intervention Orders, Family Law and Child Protection law and procedure.
- Skills and experience to manage, supervise and develop solicitors, paralegals and CSO’s
- Sound interpersonal skills and the capacity to communicate effectively with members of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community and more broadly with multidisciplinary colleagues and VALS partners
- A commitment to and understanding of VALS and the legal issues faced by members of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities in Victoria;
- Competency in the use of MS Office Software (particularly MS Word, Excel, E-mail) and the capacity to quickly acquire competency in the use of VALS’ client management system.
MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS:
On offer of this position, you must provide:
- Copy of your current Employee Working with Children Card.
- You will be required to complete a current Criminal History Police Check.
- Up to date vaccination certificate or valid medical exemption
- Proof of rights to work in Australia, i.e., a copy of an Australian Passport, Birth Certificate, or Immigration VISA documentation
- Current valid Victorian Driver’s Licence
- Copies of any certificates or degrees relevant to this role
Salary Offering: $100K – 115K depending on experience plus 11.5% Superannuation
Additional Benefits:
- 17.5% Leave Loading
- 5 extra days leave on top of 20 days annual leave
- Only required to work 35 hours per week, any extra hours worked will be calculated as your Time In Lieu (TOIL) – which you may use as additional leave hours
- Access to company vehicles for any work-related trips
- Salary packaging of up to $15,900+ per FBT available via Maxxia
Office Location: Unit 3/ 262 Maude Street, Shepparton, Vic, 3630
This role is full-time fixed term until 30 June 2025(aligned with the funding cycle)
OVERVIEW OF THE ROLE:
As Regional Practice Lead, you will have 4+ years of practical experience in criminal law and act as a lead advocate for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people interacting with the criminal justice system.
- Provide high quality legal services in Criminal Law matters, including duty lawyer services, representation, advice and information to Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people in Victoria.
- Engage with Aboriginal community stakeholders to identify key community legal education (CLE) needs relevant to the regional and local context.
- Link with, and oversee the development of, partnerships and referral and support pathways within the Shepparton region to assist VALS clients with access to other legal assistance and services relevant to them. This includes oversight of Aboriginal client service officers (CSOs) and administrative support based at the VALS Shepparton Office.
This position may require regional and very occasional interstate travel.
KEY SELECTION CRITERIA:
- Admitted or eligible for admission as a legal practitioner in Victoria and in the High Court of Australia (with an unrestricted practising certificate)
- Capability to work as an advocate and caseworker in complex criminal law matters, with knowledge of, and practical experience in the law and court procedures within the criminal law jurisdiction
- Ability to supervise, mentor and train staff and volunteers and contribute to the development of individuals and their knowledge and skills in criminal law
- Sound interpersonal skills and the capacity to communicate effectively with members of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community and more broadly with multidisciplinary colleagues and VALS partners
- A commitment to and understanding of VALS and the legal issues faced by members of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities in Victoria
- Basic competency in the use of MS Office Software (particularly MS Word, Excel, E-mail) and the capacity to quickly acquire competency in the use of VALS’ client management system.
Desirable:
- Member or eligible to be a Victoria Legal Aid Panel member for summary, indictable and youth matters
- Accredited Criminal Law Specialist
- Experience working in the non-profit sector.
Salary Offering: $100K – 115K depending on experience plus 11.5% Superannuation
Additional Benefits:
- 17.5% Leave Loading
- 5 extra days leave on top of 20 days annual leave
- Only required to work 35 hours per week, any extra hours worked will be calculated as your Time In Lieu (TOIL) – which you may use as additional leave hours
- Access to company vehicles for any work-related trips
- Salary packaging of up to $15,900+ per FBT available via Maxxia
Office Location: 81 Pine Avenue, Mildura
This role is full-time fixed term until 30 June 2025(aligned with the funding cycle)
OVERVIEW OF THE ROLE:
As Regional Practice Lead, you will have 4+ years of practical experience in criminal law and act as a lead advocate for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people interacting with the criminal justice system.
- Provide high quality legal services in Criminal Law matters, including duty lawyer services, representation, advice and information to Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people in Victoria.
- Engage with Aboriginal community stakeholders to identify key community legal education (CLE) needs relevant to the regional and local context.
- Link with, and oversee the development of, partnerships and referral and support pathways within the Shepparton region to assist VALS clients with access to other legal assistance and services relevant to them. This includes oversight of Aboriginal client service officers (CSOs) and administrative support based at the VALS Shepparton Office.
This position may require regional and very occasional interstate travel.
KEY SELECTION CRITERIA:
- Admitted or eligible for admission as a legal practitioner in Victoria and in the High Court of Australia (with an unrestricted practising certificate)
- Capability to work as an advocate and caseworker in complex criminal law matters, with knowledge of, and practical experience in the law and court procedures within the criminal law jurisdiction
- Ability to supervise, mentor and train staff and volunteers and contribute to the development of individuals and their knowledge and skills in criminal law
- Sound interpersonal skills and the capacity to communicate effectively with members of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community and more broadly with multidisciplinary colleagues and VALS partners
- A commitment to and understanding of VALS and the legal issues faced by members of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities in Victoria
- Basic competency in the use of MS Office Software (particularly MS Word, Excel, E-mail) and the capacity to quickly acquire competency in the use of VALS’ client management system.
Desirable:
- Member or eligible to be a Victoria Legal Aid Panel member for summary, indictable and youth matters
- Accredited Criminal Law Specialist
- Experience working in the non-profit sector.
Salary Offering: $100K – 115K depending on experience plus 11.5% Superannuation
Additional Benefits:
- 17.5% Leave Loading
- 5 extra days leave on top of 20 days annual leave
- Only required to work 35 hours per week, any extra hours worked will be calculated as your Time In Lieu (TOIL) – which you may use as additional leave hours
- Access to company vehicles for any work-related trips
- Salary packaging of up to $15,900+ per FBT available via Maxxia
Office Location: Unit 3/ 262 Maude Street, Shepperton, Vic, 3630
This role is full-time, fixed term until 30th June 2025(aligned with the funding cycle)
This position may require regional and very occasional interstate travel.
OVERVIEW OF THE ROLE:
The Regional Practice Lead will have 4+ years of practical experience in civil law and act as a lead advocate for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people interacting with the civil justice system across region. This position will:
- Provide high quality legal services in Civil Law matters, including duty lawyer services, representation, advice and information to Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people in Victoria.
- Engage with Aboriginal community stakeholders to identify key community legal education (CLE) needs relevant to the regional and local context.
- Link with, and oversee the development of, partnerships and referral and support pathways within the Mildura region to assist VALS clients with access to other legal assistance and services relevant to them. This includes oversight of Aboriginal client service officers (CSOs) and administrative support.
The role holder will have the endorsement or is eligible to become a Panel Certifier on Victorian Legal Aid (VLA) Civil Law Panel.
KEY SELECTION CRITERIA:
- Admitted or eligible for admission as a legal practitioner in Victoria and in the High Court of Australia (with an unrestricted practising certificate).· Capability to work as an advocate and caseworker in complex civil law matters, with knowledge of, and practical experience in the law and court procedures within the civil law jurisdiction.·
- Ability to supervise, mentor and train staff and volunteers and contribute to the development of individuals and their knowledge and skills in civil law.· Sound interpersonal skills and the capacity to communicate effectively with members of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community and more broadly with multidisciplinary colleagues and VALS partners.·
- A commitment to and understanding of VALS and the legal issues faced by members of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities in Victoria.·
- Basic competency in the use of MS Office Software (particularly MS Word, Excel, E-mail) and the capacity to quickly acquire competency in the use of VALS’ client management system.
Desirable:
- Experience working in the non-profit sector.· Member or eligible to be a Victoria Legal Aid Panel member for summary, indictable and youth matters· Accredited Civil Law Specialist
MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS:
On offer of this position, you must provide:
- Copy of your current Employee Working with Children Card.
- You will be required to complete a current Criminal History Police Check.
- Up to date vaccination certificate or valid medical exemption
- Proof of rights to work in Australia, i.e., a copy of an Australian Passport, Birth Certificate, or Immigration VISA documentation
- Current valid Victorian Driver’s Licence
- Copies of any certificates or degrees relevant to this role
Salary Offering: $100K – 115K depending on experience plus 11.5% Superannuation
Office Location: 81 Pine Avenue, Mildura
Additional Benefits:
- 17.5% Leave Loading
- 5 extra days leave on top of 20 days annual leave
- Only required to work 35 hours per week, any extra hours worked will be calculated as your Time In Lieu (TOIL) – which you may use as additional leave hours
- Access to company vehicles for any work-related trips
- Salary packaging of up to $15,900+ per FBT available via Maxxia
This role is full-time, fixed term until 30th June 2025(aligned with funding cycle)
This position may require regional and very occasional interstate travel.
OVERVIEW OF THE ROLE:
The Regional Practice Lead will have 4+ years of practical experience in civil law and act as a lead advocate for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people interacting with the civil justice system across region. This position will:
- Provide high quality legal services in Civil Law matters, including duty lawyer services, representation, advice and information to Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people in Victoria.
- Engage with Aboriginal community stakeholders to identify key community legal education (CLE) needs relevant to the regional and local context.
- Link with, and oversee the development of, partnerships and referral and support pathways within the Mildura region to assist VALS clients with access to other legal assistance and services relevant to them. This includes oversight of Aboriginal client service officers (CSOs) and administrative support.
The role holder will have the endorsement or is eligible to become a Panel Certifier on Victorian Legal Aid (VLA) Civil Law Panel.
KEY SELECTION CRITERIA:
- Admitted or eligible for admission as a legal practitioner in Victoria and in the High Court of Australia (with an unrestricted practising certificate).· Capability to work as an advocate and caseworker in complex civil law matters, with knowledge of, and practical experience in the law and court procedures within the civil law jurisdiction.·
- Ability to supervise, mentor and train staff and volunteers and contribute to the development of individuals and their knowledge and skills in civil law.· Sound interpersonal skills and the capacity to communicate effectively with members of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community and more broadly with multidisciplinary colleagues and VALS partners.·
- A commitment to and understanding of VALS and the legal issues faced by members of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities in Victoria.·
- Basic competency in the use of MS Office Software (particularly MS Word, Excel, E-mail) and the capacity to quickly acquire competency in the use of VALS’ client management system.
Desirable:
- Experience working in the non-profit sector.· Member or eligible to be a Victoria Legal Aid Panel member for summary, indictable and youth matters· Accredited Civil Law Specialist
MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS:
On offer of this position, you must provide:
- Copy of your current Employee Working with Children Card.
- You will be required to complete a current Criminal History Police Check.
- Up to date vaccination certificate or valid medical exemption
- Proof of rights to work in Australia, i.e., a copy of an Australian Passport, Birth Certificate, or Immigration VISA documentation
- Current valid Victorian Driver’s Licence
- Copies of any certificates or degrees relevant to this role
Salary Offering: $100K – 115K depending on experience plus 11.5% Superannuation
Additional Benefits:
- 17.5% Leave Loading
- 5 extra days leave on top of 20 days annual leave
- Only required to work 35 hours per week, any extra hours worked will be calculated as your Time In Lieu (TOIL) – which you may use as additional leave hours
- Access to company vehicles for any work-related trips
- Salary packaging of up to $15,900+ per FBT available via Maxxia
Office Locations: 279 Hargreaves Street, Bendigo VIC 3550
This role is full-time fixed term until 30 June 2025 (aligned with the funding cycle)
This position may require regional and very occasional interstate travel.
OVERVIEW OF THE ROLE:
The Regional Practice Lead will have 4+ years of practical experience in Family law and act as a lead advocate for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people interacting with the civil justice system across region. This position will:
- Provide high quality legal services in Family Law matters, including duty lawyer services, representation, advice and information to Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people in Victoria.
- Engage with Aboriginal community stakeholders to identify key community legal education (CLE) needs relevant to the regional and local context.
- Link with, and oversee the development of, partnerships and referral and support pathways within the Mildura region to assist VALS clients with access to other legal assistance and services relevant to them. This includes oversight of Aboriginal client service officers (CSOs) and administrative support based at one of our Regional Offices.
The role holder will have the endorsement or is eligible to become a Panel Certifier on Victorian Legal Aid (VLA) Family Law Panel.
KEY SELECTION CRITERIA:
- Admitted or eligible for admission as a legal practitioner in Victoria and in the High Court of Australia (with an unrestricted practicing certificate)
- Demonstrated ability to act as an advocate, deliver information, advice, casework and outreach services, and undertake negotiation and dispute resolution on behalf of VALS clients in Family Violence, Intervention Orders and, to a lesser extent, Family Law and Child Protection matters.
- Knowledge of, and 4+ years of practical experience in relevant Family Violence, Intervention Orders, Family Law and Child Protection law and procedure.
- Skills and experience to manage, supervise and develop solicitors, paralegals and CSO’s
- Sound interpersonal skills and the capacity to communicate effectively with members of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community and more broadly with multidisciplinary colleagues and VALS partners
- A commitment to and understanding of VALS and the legal issues faced by members of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities in Victoria;
- Competency in the use of MS Office Software (particularly MS Word, Excel, E-mail) and the capacity to quickly acquire competency in the use of VALS’ client management system.
MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS:
On offer of this position, you must provide:
- Copy of your current Employee Working with Children Card.
- You will be required to complete a current Criminal History Police Check.
- Up to date vaccination certificate or valid medical exemption
- Proof of rights to work in Australia, i.e., a copy of an Australian Passport, Birth Certificate, or Immigration VISA documentation
- Current valid Victorian Driver’s Licence
- Copies of any certificates or degrees relevant to this role
Salary Offering:$84,357.55 – $90,357.55 per annum., depending on experience, plus Superannuation
Additional Benefits:
- 17.5% Leave Loading
- 5 extra days leave on top of 20 days annual leave
- Only required to work 35 hours per week, any extra hours worked will be calculated as your Time In Lieu (TOIL) – which you may use as additional leave hours
- Access to company vehicles for any work-related trips
- Salary packaging of up to $15,900+ per FBT available via Maxxia
Office Locations: High Street, Preston
This position will require travel across Metropolitan Melbourne and some regional travel
This role is full-time fixed term for 12 months
Application ends on 28th March 2025.
OVERVIEW OF THE ROLE:
The Lawyer for the Balit Ngulu team provides high quality legal services, including duty lawyer services, representation, advice, and information in criminal law matters to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and young people (up to 21 years old) in Victoria.
Key Performance Indicators, Duties & Responsibility
- Under the supervision of the Principal Managing Lawyer, plan and deliver a quality legal service for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth in Metropolitan Melbourne and its neighbouring areas at various courts including the Children’s Court Criminal Division, Magistrates Court and Koori Courts in order to represent clients of Balit Ngulu Legal Service.
- Participate in community legal education projects, law reform and other Balit Ngulu projects as required.
- Maintain positive and collaborative relationships with key stakeholders, including Victoria Legal Aid, pro bono law firms, the Victorian Bar and other community organisations from both the legal and non-legal sectors.
- Keep up to date with relevant legal developments and procedures by attending professional legal education programs and maintain an understanding of broader issues impacting the youth justice system and members of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth Communities.
- As directed, undertake other duties which are incidental and peripheral to the main tasks, provided that such duties are reasonably within the employee’s skills, competence and training.
- You may also be required to travel across regional Victoria to deliver services to the Victorian Aboriginal youth communities. Sometimes this travel will occur outside of usual business hours.
- Other duties as required.
Personal accountability
- Compliance with all VALS Values, code of conduct, policies and procedures and relevant government legislation and standards where relevant.
- Demonstrate a commitment to the principles of social justice and aim to ensure every individual is treated with dignity and respect regardless of their background, ability, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation or religion
- Ensure appropriate use of resources
- Actively participate in initiatives to maintain, build upon and promote a positive and collaborative workplace.
- Take reasonable care for your own health & safety, and health and safety of others (to extent required)
- Promptly respond to and report health and safety hazards, incidents and near misses to management.
Attend mandatory training sessions (i.e. Equal employment opportunity, health and safety, cultural safety) and mandatory training specific to position.
Key Selection Criteria
- Admitted to practice as a legal practitioner in Victoria.
- Knowledge of and practical experience in the law and court procedures with a focus on the Youth Justice System.
- A commitment to and understanding of the youth legal issues faced by members of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Youth Communities in Victoria.
- Capacity to work as an advocate and caseworker in complex matters
- The ability to work collaboratively with others and to foster a co-operative and supportive team environment
- Sound interpersonal skills and the capacity to communicate effectively with members of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Youth community
- A knowledge of the principles and values of the Victorian Aboriginal Legal Services
- Ability to work with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and acknowledge their diverse backgrounds, personalities and varying needs and the unique cultural ways in which they may be expressed
- Demonstrated computer literacy skills and proficiency using the Microsoft Office and other relevant software. The capacity to quickly acquire competency in the of VALS’s client data base (ActionStep).
- Experience working in the non-profit sector.
Desirable
- At least 18 months post- admission experience.
- A member, or eligible to be a member, of Victoria Legal Aid’s Youth Crime practitioner panel.
Qualifications – Required
- Admitted, or eligible for admission, as a legal practitioner in Victoria
Key Capabilities
- Provides high quality legal advice and representation.
- Analyses the situation and formulates the legal question to be answered.
- Listens attentively – shows empathy when appropriate.
- Develops and fosters positive working relationships both internally and externally.
- Develops expertise in areas of specialisation.
- Gains insight into the client and stakeholder needs, priorities and expectations.
- Ensures files are up to date and easily accessible to the relevant line manager
MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS:
- On offer of this position, you must provide:
- Copy of your current Employee Working with Children Card.
- You will be required to complete a current Criminal History Police Check.
- Up to date vaccination certificate or valid medical exemption
- Proof of rights to work in Australia, i.e., a copy of an Australian Passport, Birth Certificate, or Immigration VISA documentation
- Current valid Australian Driver’s Licence
Salary Offering: $70,351.38 (VALS D 1.3) plus 11.5% Superannuation
Additional Benefits:
- 17.5% Leave Loading
- 5 extra days leave on top of 20 days annual leave
- Only required to work 35 hours per week, any extra hours worked will be calculated as your Time In Lieu (TOIL) – which you may use as additional leave hours
- Access to company vehicles for any work-related trips
- Salary packaging is available via Maxxia
Office Locations: 81 Pine Ave, Mildura VIC 3500
This role is full-time fixed term until 30th of June 2025
This position may require regional and very occasional interstate travel.
Application ends on 28th March 2025.
OVERVIEW OF THE ROLE:
To provide high quality secretarial / administrative support services to the Criminal, Aboriginal Families and Civil Practice Leads. The role holder will provide a reception function and act as a liaison and coordination point for office management. This includes in arranging stationery and supplies, liaison with local tradespeople and the VALS office manager and ensuring the adequacy of VALS approaches to good workplace health and safety.
KEY SELECTION CRITERIA:
- Secretarial or similar experience preferred but not essential.
- Advanced skills in the use of MS Office Software (particularly MS Word, Excel, E-mail – word proficient to 80 words per minute) to a legal practice, or similar, and the capacity to quickly acquire competency in the use of VALS’ client data base.
- Professional and courteous phone manner and interpersonal skills and the capacity to communicate effectively with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community members, who may be experiencing stress and anxiety due to their legal needs, and other team members and partners.
- Knowledge or a willingness to learn about the legal issues faced by members of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities in Victoria, with a commitment to the principles and values of the Victorian Aboriginal Legal Service
MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS:
On offer of this position, you must provide:
- Copy of your current Employee Working with Children Card.
- You will be required to complete a current Criminal History Police Check.
- Up to date vaccination certificate or valid medical exemption
- Proof of rights to work in Australia, i.e., a copy of an Australian Passport, Birth Certificate, or Immigration VISA documentation
- Current valid Victorian Driver’s Licence
- Copies of any certificates or degrees relevant to this role
The Victorian Aboriginal Legal Service frequently offers a number of employment opportunities within our Legal, Community Justice and Executive and Corporate Services.
If you are an Australian Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander person who is seeking to work with our organisation please send your current resume along with your preferred area/role and region (metro, Loddon, Barwon etc.)
To join our talent pool, please email jobs@vals.org.au. We will contact you as new opportunities arise.
How to apply
To apply for one of the above opportunities please provide:
- A covering letter outlining who you are and why you are suited to this position.
- A statement addressing each of the key selection criteria – applications submitted without a statement addressing the key selection criteria will not be accepted. Please note the key selection criteria is found within the position description.
- Your resume detailing your education and professional experience and two referees.
Please submit your application to jobs@vals.org.au using the subject line: POSITION TITLE
*Only successful applications will be contacted*
We do not accept unsolicited resumes from employment agencies. No (search) fee will be paid in the event we hire a candidate whose resume is submitted by an employment agency to any of our employees without a valid written recruitment agreement. Such resumes shall be deemed the sole property of VALS.
When offered a role at VALS
On offer of a position, it is mandatory for you to provide:
- Copy of your current Employee Working with Children Card.
- You will be required to complete a current Criminal History Police Check.
- Up to date vaccination certificate or valid medical exemption
- Proof of rights to work in Australia, i.e., a copy of an Australian Passport, Birth Certificate, or Immigration VISA documentation
- Current valid Victorian Driver’s Licence
- Copies of any certificates or degrees relevant to this role