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) depending on experience, plus 11.5%Superannuation
Only applications that send a document addressing the key selection creteria will be accepted.
Office Locations:
– Werribee – Warnambool – Mildura – Shepparton – Bendigo
– Head Office- 273 High Street Preston, 3072
This role is full-time fixed term until 30 June 2025.
This position will require regional and very occasional interstate travel.
OVERVIEW OF THE ROLE:
As CSO you will act as a liaison between VALS and Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people interacting with the justice system.
The CSO helps address barriers Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people face in engaging with criminal, family and civil justice processes. CSOs have an educational role in crime prevention and reduction, and in conjunction with other facilities, offer alternative programs to Aboriginal communities.
Key Responsibilities:
- Respond to e-justice notifications, the on-call CSO, the Aboriginal Community Justice Panel (ACJP) or Victoria Police when advised that an Aboriginal person is being held in custody;
- Contact the Aboriginal person in custody, provide basic information and exercise discretion as to whether the on-call solicitor should be contacted. Reassure the client and explain legal terminology and processes used by the police 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;
- Attend court to support the client and the solicitor; and as directed, lodge all necessary court documents;
- Liaise and network with other Aboriginal organisations to promote VALS and be aware of programs that help prevent or reduce crime within Victorian Aboriginal communities;
- Liaise with police and other persons within the justice system to ensure delivery of a culturally relevant service;
- Represent VALS at various meetings 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 data is entered into the VALS client management system
KEY SELECTION CRITERIA:
- A demonstrated knowledge of the Victorian legal system;
- An understanding of the legal issues faced by Victorian Aboriginal communities and a commitment to and understanding of Victorian Aboriginal culture and community, and the ability to communicate effectively with members of those communities;
- Excellent written, verbal communication and interpersonal skills;
- The ability to work in a multi-skilled environment;
- Excellent computer skills, including experience with working with data bases 784024,
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: $79,997.92 – $ 82,514.43 (VALS RB 1.1 – 1.3 ) per annum., depending on experience plus 11.5% Superannuation
Office Locations: High Street, Preston
This position may require regional and very occasional interstate travel.
Application ends on 16th December 2024.
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
Overview
The Project and Community Engagement Officer will support the development and implementation of VALS’ Justice Treaty Project. The Project and Community Engagement Officer will have a focus on secretariat and project support alongside community engagement.
This position is part of a newly created team that will be responsible for leading, coordinating and delivering VALS’ Justice Treaty project. VALS has called for the Victorian government to negotiate a Justice Treaty with Aboriginal Communities and Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations (ACCOs). VALS sees that a Justice Treaty would set a new foundation to transform the legal system, including through progressive transfer of power, resources, data and control to allow for Aboriginal justice models.
The Justice Treaty Team sits within the Policy, Communications and Strategy Team and will work across VALS to strengthen our policy and advocacy that supports Aboriginal communities’ priorities.
Key Performance Indicators, Duties & Responsibility
- Support the implementation of the Justice Treaty project plan.
- Provide secretariat support for Justice Treaty governance and working groups, including drafting agendas, minutes, and the collation and circulation of relevant papers to members.
- Monitor and respond to incoming communications, as well as conducting general admin duties
- Support the research and writing of policy papers, briefs, reports and submissions as relevant, relating to Justice Treaty.
- Support in the organisation and facilitation of community engagement events to raise awareness and engagement of the Justice Treaty project.
- Engage with people with lived experience of the legal system, to ensure their views and experiences inform the development of a Justice Treaty model.
Internal Obligations
- Commitment to VALS’s strategic plan
- Attend and actively contribute at team and working group meetings
- Work in collaboration with other members of the Policy, Communications and Strategy team as needed
- Undertake other duties & responsibilities within the scope of the role as directed
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 (ie. equal employment opportunity, health and safety, cultural safety) and mandatory training specific to position.
Key Selection Criteria
Mandatory
- Understanding of the legal system and its impacts on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities
- 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 experience in providing secretariat/administrative support
- Demonstrated experience in community and stakeholder engagement
- Demonstrated computer literacy skills and proficiency using the Microsoft Office and other relevant software
Desirable
- Relevant qualifications in higher education such as Bachelor degree in Law, Politics, Social Policy, Communications or Journalism and/or experience in policy, and project support.
- Training or experience in the legal sector, particularly in areas of social justice and human rights
- Understanding of the role of Aboriginal legal services and Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations
- Experience working in the non-profit sector
Mandatory Requirement
On offer of this position, you must provide:
- A copy of your current Employee Working with Children Check card
- A copy of your current Victorian Driver’s License
- 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
- COVID-19 Proof of Vaccination Certificate or current and valid medical exemption certificate
Copies of any certificates or degrees relevant to this role
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 and very occasional interstate travel.
Application ends on 22nd November 2024.
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
Positions open to all applicants
Salary Offering: $94,754.39 plus 11.5% Superannuation
Full-time (12 month fixed term from point of appointment)
Overview
The Senior Policy Officer, Justice Treaty is part of a newly created team that that will be responsible for leading, coordinating and delivering VALS’ Justice Treaty project. The Justice Treaty Team sits within the Policy, Communications and Strategy Team.
This role will support the development and implementation of this project. The Senior Policy Officer will support the establishment and coordination of governance and working groups, developing position papers and a final options paper. The Senior Policy Officer, Justice Treaty will work with Policy, Communications and Strategy Team colleagues and across VALS to strengthen our advocacy that supports Aboriginal communities’ priorities. This role will also support the broader team’s policy and advocacy work.
About the Justice Treaty Project
VALS has called for the Victorian government to negotiate a Justice Treaty with Aboriginal Communities and Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations (ACCOs). VALS sees that a Justice Treaty would set a new foundation to transform the legal system, including through progressive transfer of power, resources, data and control to allow for Aboriginal justice models. This builds off recommendation two of the Yoorrook for Justice Report, of which the Victorian government is still considering.
Key Performance Indicators, Duties & Responsibility
• Support the coordination and implementation of the Justice Treaty project plan.
• Support the development and delivery of webinars, resources and papers to support this work.
• Research, write and prepare position papers, reports submissions and briefs as relevant, relating to Justice Treaty.
• Provide support and advice to the CEO and other members of the Executive to fulfil their role in representing VALS in external forums, relating to Justice Treaty or as required.
• Support the facilitation, collaboration and information sharing between Policy, Communications and Strategy Team, VALS Executive, VALS Board and VALS service delivery staff where appropriate in the conception, development and delivery of this project.
• Support the establishment and coordination of Justice Treaty governance and working groups, with associated governance documents, with membership from other ACCOs, legal sector representatives and Aboriginal leaders to ensure a self-determined process.
• Develop and maintain strong working relationships with key internal and external stakeholders, including Aboriginal community-controlled organisations (ACCOs), National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Legal Service (NATSILS) and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Legal Services (ATSILS), research institutions, Government and community legal organisations to support and strengthen this project.
• Engage with people with lived experience of the legal system, to ensure their views and experiences inform the development of a Justice Treaty model.
• 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.
Internal Obligations
• Commitment to VALS’s strategic plan
• Attend and actively contribute at team and working group meetings
• Provide mentoring and support to other members of the Policy, Communications and Strategy team as needed
• Undertake other duties & responsibilities within the scope of the role as directed
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 (ie. equal employment opportunity, health and safety, cultural safety) and mandatory training specific to position.
Key Selection Criteria
Mandatory
• Relevant qualifications such as Bachelor or Masters degree in Law, Politics, Communications or Journalism and/or extensive experience in policy analysis and advocacy.
• Demonstrated experience in policy, research and advocacy skills.
• Demonstrated experience in advocacy and stakeholder management.
• Ability to work autonomously and to collaborate in a small team environment
• High level organisational and administrative skills including the ability to prioritise workload, work under pressure and meet deadlines
• Demonstrated computer literacy skills and proficiency using the Microsoft Office and other relevant software
• 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.
Desirable
• Training or experience in the legal sector, particularly in areas of social justice and human rights
• Understanding of the role of Aboriginal legal services and Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations
• 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 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 $84,846 – $92,731 depending on experience plus 11.5% superannuation
Office Location: 273 High Street, Preston
This role is full-time fixed term until 31 July 2025 – part time & job sharing also considered
This position may require occasional regional travel.
OVERVIEW OF THE ROLE:
This role supports the Aboriginal Justice Caucus (AJC) to review implementation of recommendations from the Royal Commission into Aboriginal Deaths in Custody (RCIADIC) and subsequent coronial inquests in Victoria. The Aboriginal Justice Caucus Project Team supports the AJC to undertake these assessments, engage with and communicate project progress to a range of stakeholders including Aboriginal groups and organisations, government departments and other justice agencies. This role is part of a small project team within the Policy, Communications and Strategy area of the Victorian Aboriginal Legal Service (VALS).
The Senior Communications Officer will be responsible for the creation and implementation of all elements of the communications strategy for this Project, including the prioritisation of responsibilities based on available resources. Subject to resourcing, the work and oversight of this role may include: formulation of copy and design elements for the project’s final report, synthesis of assessment findings into summaries and thematic overviews, creation and management of templates and referencing software for use by policy and research staff, oversight on development of the AJC and project website, creation and implementation of stakeholder engagement, social media, and media strategies, preparation and presentation of progress updates and review opportunities for AJC leadership, and management of staff and volunteers to assist in these areas.
Working closely with colleagues across the Aboriginal Justice Caucus and VALS, the Senior Communications Officer will support the agreed aims of the project, Aboriginal Justice Agreement and necessary reforms to stem the over-representation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in Victoria’s criminal legal system and prevent deaths in custody.
KEY SELECTION CRITERIA:
· Ability to effectively work with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and a demonstrated commitment to supporting Aboriginal self-determination. This must include good understanding and sensitivity to the diverse cultures and lived experiences of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and communities.
· Excellent copywriting and editing skills, with experience tailoring content to the requirements of different audiences and mediums and strong attention to detail.
· Excellent graphic design, layout and publishing skills, including graphics production.
· Experience creating communications strategies and implementation plans, with regard to deadlines, resourcing and budget constraints.
· Strong organisational, time management and planning skills, including an ability to manage individuals, work autonomously and within a team.
· Demonstrated computer literacy, with proficiency using Microsoft Office, WordPress, Zoom and other relevant software.
Desirable:
· Relevant qualifications such as graphic design, copywriting, publishing, journalism or media studies.
· Proficiency with using the Adobe Creative Cloud, particularly Indesign and Illustrator, experience with Photoshop and Premiere Pro would also be valued.
· Familiarity with AGLC4 and/or proficiency in the creation of and management of Endnote libraries.
· Familiarity with web development, social media platforms, social media marketing and digital analytics.
· Familiarity with Mailchimp, and mailing list creation and maintenance.
· Experience in creating and managing Microsoft Word templates.
· Experience working in the non-profit sector.
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: 279 Hargreaves St, Bendigo, VIC 3550
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 27th December 2024.
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