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
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 – $84,357.55 (VALS CPB 1.1 – 1.4) depending on experience, plus Superannuation
Only applications that send a document addressing the key selection creteria will be accepted.
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:
-West Melbourne – Werribee – Warnambool
-Mildura – Shepparton – Bendigo – Morwell
– 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,
Salary Offering $78,402.32 – $84,357.55 (depending on experience)
Location: Unit 3 / 262 Maude Street, Shepparton, VIC 3630.
Contract ends on 30th June 2028
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 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 – 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.
KEY SELECTION – Desired
- 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
- Salary Offering $78,402.32 – $84,357.55
Location: Unit 3 / 262 Maude Street, Shepparton, VIC 3630.
Part time (4 days a week) fixed term until 30th of June 2025
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.
Benefits:
- 17.5% Leave Loading
- 5 extra days leave on top of 20 days annual leave
- Only required to work 28 hours per week, any extra hours worked will be
- 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
The DART Worker 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. Drawing upon their knowledge and skills in support coordination, the DART Worker will build rapport and will 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. The DART Worker will have links with the MCM ECIS team when additional allied health supports are requested by the courts.
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.
Positions open to all applicants
Salary Offering: $94,754.39 plus 11% Superannuation
Located at Preston Office (273 High Street)
Fixed term for 12 months
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
Working collaboratively within the Policy team and across the organisation, the Senior Policy Officer will undertake high quality policy work, advocacy and research. This includes preparing policy submissions, papers and briefs, supporting research partnerships and research projects, supporting the development and implementation of advocacy strategies and initiatives, and advising the CEO and other members of the Executive as required. This is done in line with VALS strategic vision and in the context of developing and promoting VALS as a strong voice for the Aboriginal communities we serve.
Key Selection Criteria
- Relevant qualifications such as Bachelor or Masters degree in Law, Politics, Communications or Journalism and/or extensive experience in policy analysis and advocacy.
- Demonstrated advocacy, relationship-building and stakeholder engagement skills including in effectively engaging communities in policy or advocacy development.
- Well-developed policy and analytical skills
- 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.
Salary Offering: $73,196.94 – $76,196.94 plus 11% Superannuation
Office Location 273 High Street Preston, Vic, 3072
This role is a part-time fixed term role until 30 June 2025
Preference is Mon & Fri with an additional half day (of
successful applicants choosing)
Applications close 15th of July 2024
Additional Benefits:
- 17.5% Leave Loading
- 5 extra days leave on top of 20 days annual leave
- Only required to work 17.5 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
The Wirraway Police and Prison Accountability Practice represents people who have been have been abused and/or mistreated by members of Victoria Police, Corrections Victoria, Youth Justice or other government agencies. This also includes representing families in coronial inquests into Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander deaths in custody and police contact deaths. The Wirraway Practice is also engaged in strategic litigation relating to police and prison accountability.
The Paralegal will conduct intake and provide administrative, legal research and drafting support to lawyers in the Wirraway practice.
Key Selection Criteria
Essential
- A commitment to understanding VALS and the social, legal and justice issues faced by Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people in Victoria.
- Highly developed interpersonal skills with an ability to develop empathetic and productive relationships with clients, as well as internal and external stakeholders including members of Aboriginal communities, Courts, Judiciary, support services and Government Departments.
- Good organisational skills and experience in managing competing demands on time.
- Ability and willingness to undertake travel in Victoria.
Desired
5. Experience of working with clients in community organisations.
6. Experience of work within Aboriginal legal services, Victorian Legal Aid and/or community legal centres.
7. Experience in legal policy development and commitment to driving and influencing change on relevant policy priorities and emerging issues.
Salary Offering: $84,357.55 – $90,357.55
(VALS LB 1.1 – 1.7) depending on experience
Applications Close 19th of July 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 is available via Maxxia
Office Locations: High Street, Preston
This role is full-time fixed term until 30th of June 2025
This position may require regional and very occasional interstate travel.
OVERVIEW OF THE ROLE:
As VALS Criminal Lawyer you will provide high quality legal services, including duty lawyer services, representation, advice and information in criminal law matters to members of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community in Victoria.
This role will involve occasionally helping with night phone duties (outside of regular work hours)
KEY SELECTION CRITERIA:
- Admitted or eligible for admission as a legal practitioner in Victoria.
- Sound interpersonal skills and the capacity to communicate effectively with members of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community.
- A commitment to and understanding of the legal issues faced by members of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community in Victoria.
Salary Offering: $79,997 – $84,498 (depending on experience)
This position is full time fixed until 31st of July 2025
Part time/Job sharing arrangements also considered
Office Location: 273 High Street Preston, 3072
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
This role supports the Aboriginal Justice Caucus (AJC) to review Victoria’s implementation
of recommendations from the Royal Commission into Aboriginal Deaths in Custody
(RCIADIC). This includes research, engagement with Aboriginal groups and
organisations, and supporting AJC engagement with the Yoorrook Justice Commission
through preparation of briefings and policy submissions.
This role is part of a small project team within the Policy, Communications and Strategy area of VALS.
Working collaboratively across VALS, the Policy, Communications and Strategy
Team produces high quality research, co-ordinates research partnerships and projects, develops and implements
advocacy strategies, and prepares policy submissions and initiatives
KEY SELECTION CRETERIA
Essential
1. Experience in research, policy analysis or advocacy and/or relevant tertiary
qualification/s (e.g. public policy, law, criminology, politics, journalism or
related fields)
2. Understanding of justice issues faced by Aboriginal communities in Victoria
3. Ability to work with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples from diverse
backgrounds
4. Demonstrated relationship-building and stakeholder engagement skills including in
effectively engaging communities in policy or advocacy development.
5. Well-developed policy, research and analytical skills and capacity to understand and apply
research evidence to policy issues and/or legislation
6. High-level written and verbal communication skills relevant to the role such as experience
of writing policy documents, briefings, government submissions or media
communications
7. Ability to work autonomously and to collaborate in a small team environment
8. High level organisational and administrative skills including the ability to prioritise workload, work under pressure and meet deadlines
9. Demonstrated computer literacy skills and proficiency using Microsoft Office and other
relevant software
Desirable
1. Lived-experience of the criminal legal system
2. Understanding of the role of Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations
3. Knowledge of Victoria’s criminal legal system or other policy areas relevant to the
RCIADIC (health, education, housing, employment, economic development etc)
4. . Experience working in the non-profit sector.
Salary Offering: $100,000 – $115,000
This position is full time until 30th of June 2025
Office Location: Unit 3 / 262 Maude Street, Shepparton, Vic, 3630
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 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 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 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 CRETERIA
- Admitted or eligible for admission as a legal practitioner in Victoria and in the High Court of Australia (with an unrestricted practising 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.
Salary Offering: $100,000 – $115,000
This position is full time until 30th of June 2025
Office Location: 150 Commerical Road, Morwell, Vic
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 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 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 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 CRETERIA
- Admitted or eligible for admission as a legal practitioner in Victoria and in the High Court of Australia (with an unrestricted practising 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.
Salary Offering: $100K – 115K depending on experience plus 11% Superannuation
Office Location: Unit 3/ 262 Maude Street, Shepparton, Vic, 3630
This role is full-time fixed term until 30 June 2025
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 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% Superannuation
Office Location: 81 Pine Avenue, Mildura
This role is full-time fixed term until 30 June 2025
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 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: $100,000 – $115,000
This position is full time until 30th of June 2025
Locations hiring for:
Morwell – 150 Commercial Road
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 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
Salary Offering: $100,000 – $115,000
This position is full time until 30th of June 2025
Locations hiring for:
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
Overview
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
Salary Offering: $100,000 – $115,000
This position is full time until 30th of June 2025
Locations hiring for:
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
Overview
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
Salary Offering $84,357.55 – $102,319.49
Full Time Fixed term of 12 months
273 High Street, Vic, 3072
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 Lawyer or Senior Lawyer will provide legal advice and representation to Aboriginal and / or Torres Strait Islander people in police and prison accountability matters. This includes representing people who have been abused and/or mistreated by members of Victoria Police, Corrections Victoria or other government agencies. This also includes representing families in coronial inquests into Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander deaths in custody and police contact deaths.
Key Selection Criteria
Essential
- A relevant qualification in Law and eligible to practice law in Victoria – for Senior role – must have 3 years post admission experience.
- Knowledge and understanding of the social, legal and justice issues faced by Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Communities
- Experience with working with Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Communities experiencing stress
- High Level of Advocacy and legal experience representing and/or appearing on behalf of relevant parties in Victorian courts and tribunals
- Highly developed interpersonal skills with an ability to develop productive relationships
- Ability and willingness to travel within Victoria
Desired
- Experience representing clients in coronial inquests, police complaints, civil litigation and or criminal law matters
- Experience working in the Community Legal Centre
- Experience in legal policy development and commitment to driving change.
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