Career & Job Opportunities
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.)
Join our Talent Pool by clicking the button below.
We will contact you as new opportunities arise.
Join the best
VALS is made up of Victoria’s most committed legal advocates, professionals and support staff who work hard- with each other, our partners and our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander clients and communities- 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 and we celebrate our staff team of diverse Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, LGBTQI+ communities and from diverse cultures, language groups, abilities, and experiences.
Grow, develop and be rewarded
- You will have opportunities to work on diverse matters and gain significant experience, while having opportunities to develop your own expertise and collaborate with colleagues and partners in wide ranging projects, including policy and legal reform
- Access generous staff benefits such as access to salary packaging options, flexible working, TOIL, pre-purchased leave, paid parental, carer and cultural leave and much more.
We are currently seeking
We have secured funding from the Department of Justice and Community Safety for a brand-new dedicated youth justice legal representation, advice and support service (Balit Ngulu) to serve the Melbourne metropolitan and Greater Shepparton areas. We are also growing our other Legal Practice areas and Custody Notification Service which supports Aboriginal people access legal assistance when they first enter custody.
VALS has multiple jobs on offer as we embark on the next stages of our journey. These are:
Overview
The Human Resources Manager is responsible for ensuring the effective delivery of human resources and workplace relations advice and services to management and staff across the organisation. The role is responsible for providing expert advice on all HR related matters and queries, delivering a range of designated HR operational activities, and the identification and implementation of process improvements.
The Human Resources Manager has a generalist focus, managing all aspects of human resources. This includes policy development, talent attraction, recruitment and selection, learning and development, coaching and mentoring, performance management, workplace relations, complaints and grievance management.
You will work collaboratively with the Director of Executive and Corporate Services, CEO, Executive Team, and senior workforce development specialists, to ensure that the objectives outlined in our Strategic Plan are delivered.
VALS is dedicated to providing a flexible, comfortable and energetic work environment for all of our employees.
What A Day as A Human Resources Manager Looks Like:
Manage end-to-end talent attraction and recruitment process:
- Support managers with development of Position Descriptions, Advertisements, Shortlisting, Interviews, Offers, Induction, Onboarding and Exit Interviews.
- Make continuous improvements to recruitment, induction and onboarding processes.
- Support Finance to ensure payroll and leave records are accurate and compliant with the appropriate EBA.
- Manage the annual career development and planning review process, including supporting managers to establish and conduct reviews and development plans, including in providing ongoing feedback throughout the year.
- Working with managers to source and ensure appropriate training and development is made available for employees. This includes ensuring that CPD hours are reported in line with Legal Services Board requirements.
- Conduct/arrange staff training sessions on HR policies and procedures and other areas relevant to improving productivity and performance. Act as the key point of contact for managers, employees and the union on HR. matters, including staff grievances, complaints and industrial relations issues. Supported by our external HR advisors:
- provide interpretation and advice on a wide range of HR and employee relations issues, policies and procedures
- keep abreast of changes in workplace laws and regulations that affect VALS
- provide relevant workplace and employment related law and policy advice
- communicate regularly with employees on changes to policies, procedures and matters affecting teams.
- provide effective conflict management and/or resolution consistent with VALS policies and procedures, industrial relations laws, and VALS Values
4. Manage the OH&S systems including facilitating OH&S committee meetings, OH&S audits, policy and compliance reviews:
- Ensure adequate training of fire wardens and first aid officers.
- Responsible for the management and the return to work of injured staff members.
- Maintain VALS Employee Assistance Program or equivalent and cooperate with external providers as appropriate.
5. Maintain accurate HR policies, procedures and records in line with contemporary HR standards and produce reports as required This includes ensuring that employee and volunteer files and records are accurate and up-to-date and stored in accordance with relevant standards and legislation
Key Selection Criteria
- Qualifications in Human Resources, Law or other relevant discipline.
- Demonstrated Employee and Workplace Relations knowledge and experience.
- Problem solving skills.
Application process
To apply for this opportunity, 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: Human Resources Manager.
Please apply by 5pm Wednesday 4th August 2021
Please click below to see Position Description.
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.
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Overview The Youth Support Officer acts as liaison between the Balit Ngulu Legal Services and Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander young people taken into custody by the police and/or engaged with related youth justice processes, such as court. The Youth Support Officer has an educational role in crime prevention and reduction, and in conjunction with other facilities, to provide for alternative programs to Aboriginal young people and communities.
The Youth Support Officer works closely with young people and their families and key service providers to support effective and sustained engagement with Balit Ngulu Legal Services. This includes supporting culturally safe and appropriate safety and support plans for individual young people, in collaboration with them, their families and other members of their community and networks. This can include advocacy and making referrals to programs and resources that help divert young people from the criminal justice system. This includes programs that support desistance from offending and that support positive self-esteem, healthy and safe relationships and engagement with key community services, such as education, mental health, domestic and family violence, drug and alcohol and sports and leisure services. This can include promoting opportunities for accountability and rehabilitation that contributes to the reduction of crime in the community.
The Youth Support Officer provides community-based support and facilitates the effective coordination and sequencing of appropriate support services for young people who are appearing before, or have been sentenced by, the Children’s Court, Children’s Koori Court and adult criminal courts and who have been placed on youth justice supervised orders.
Key Performance Indicators, Duties & Responsibility 1. Make contact with the Aboriginal youth affected, accurately identify the issue to be resolved, work with the client on identifying appropriate solutions that will work for them, and establish warm links or referrals to existing programs and services to resolve the issue 2. In partnership with service providers, provide information to young people, their families and carers on procedures, practices, guidelines, legislation and furthermore provide advice of the role the Balit Ngulu Legal Services. 3. Attend court to support the client and the solicitor; 4. As directed, lodge all necessary court documents; 5. Support clients by providing holistic support to increase young people’s opportunities of enhanced quality of life and community inclusion. This includes working closely with the young person, their family and other key service providers to develop bespoke support plans that are tailored to the individual and focus on keeping the young person safe and to effectively engage in support that develops insight and know-how-for reducing at risk behaviour and offending. This includes goal setting, monitoring progress, advocacy and referrals. 6. Advocate within the broader community on behalf of clients and their families to support inclusion, participation and respect for rights. 7. Liaise and network with other Aboriginal organisations and agencies to promote Balit Ngulu and be aware of programs that will assist in the prevention or reduction of crime by Aboriginal young people supported in relevant service areas of the program; 8. Liaise with police and other persons within the justice system to ensure delivery of a culturally relevant service; 9. Perform a range of administrative tasks to ensure the effective delivery of services to Balit Ngulu Legal Service; 10. Represent Balit Ngulu Legal Services at various meetings and report back on those meetings to Balit Ngulu Legal Services management; 11. Provide activity reports on a timely basis; 12. Participates in ongoing training and staff development and acts and remains professional at all times, upholding VALS values; 13. As directed, undertake other duties as directed which are incidental and peripheral to the main tasks, provided that such duties are reasonably within the employee’s skills, competence and training.
Key Selection Criteria 1. A demonstrated understanding of the youth justice system, particularly the principles and philosophy underpinning relevant legislation and the legal issues faced by Victorian Aboriginal communities. 2. A demonstrated knowledge of the Victorian legal system; 3. An understanding of the Children, Youth and Families Act 2005 and key amendments and associated policies and guidelines that youth justice workers use. Understanding of Children’s Court practices and procedures or ability to obtain such knowledge 4. An excellent understanding of Victorian Aboriginal communities and the issues important to community, particularly as these relate to young people 5. Demonstrated experience working with the Aboriginal community and with young people; and in working to support effectively coordinated support for young people as part of a whole-family and whole-community approach 6. Excellent written, verbal communication and interpersonal skills; 7. A commitment to and understanding of Victorian Aboriginal culture and communities, and the ability to communicate effectively with members of those communities; 8. The ability to work in a multi-skilled environment; 9. Excellent computer skills. Application process Please make note in the Subject Line if you are applying for the Preston or Shepparton Position. Please apply by 5pm Tuesday 6 July 2021 Please click below to see Position Description. Youth Support Officer Shepparton Position Description 2021 Youth Support Officer Preston Position Description 2021 |
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.
Overview
The Custody Notification Officer acts as liaison between the Victorian Aboriginal Legal Service Co-Operative Limited (VALS) and Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander persons taken into custody by the police.
This position is part of 3 person weekly rotating roster for Monday – Friday
Morning 8am – 4pm
Mid-morning 10am – 6pm
Night 10pm – 8am
Key Performance Indicators, Duties & Responsibility
- Respond to e-justice notifications, the on-call CSO, the Aboriginal Community Justice Panel (ACJP) or Victoria Police when advised that an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander person is being held in custody;
- Contact the Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander person in custody, provide basic information, conduct a welfare check and coordinate for legal advice from VALS on-call solicitor. 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;
- Liaise and network with other Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander organisations and agencies to promote VALS and be aware of programs that will assist in the prevention or reduction of crime within the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community;
- Liaise with police and other persons within the justice system to ensure delivery of a culturally relevant service;
- Perform a range of administrative tasks to ensure the effective delivery of services to VALS clients.
- Provide activity reports on a timely basis, attend staff meetings as required, participate in ongoing training and staff development, and act always in a professional manner, upholding the organisation’s core values;
As directed, undertake other duties which are incidental and peripheral to the main tasks, provided that such duties are reasonably within the employee’s skills, competence and training.
Key Selection Criteria
- A demonstrated knowledge of the Victorian legal system;
- An understanding of the legal issues faced by Victorian Aboriginal communities;
- Excellent written, verbal communication and interpersonal skills;
- The ability to work in a multi-skilled environment;
- Intermediate computer skills.
- 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
- Experience working in the non-profit sector.
Application process
To apply for this opportunity, 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: Custody Notification Officer
Please apply by 5pm Monday 26 July 2021
Please click below to see Position Description.
Board Member Vacancy
This is an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander designated position, classified under Section 12 Special Measures of the Equal Opportunity Act 2010.
This opportunity is only available to Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
South East Australian Aboriginal Justice Service Limited (SEAAJSL) is the overarching entity of the Victorian Aboriginal Legal Service. The Board of Directors of South East Australian Aboriginal Justice Service Limited are calling for new members to join the company
ABOUT US:
We were established as a community-controlled organisation in 1973 to address the over-representation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in the criminal justice system. The organisation has a long and proud history of providing legal and service support for Aboriginal Victorians who are experiencing or at risk of experiencing negative contact with the justice system and advocating locally, nationally and internationally for the rights of Aboriginal people.
The organisation has grown over the years (with further expansion options being pursued) and now offers criminal, family and civil law services, client services support, community legal education and a range of community justice support programs in Victoria
POSITION REQUIREMENTS:
As a VALS COM member, you will be responsible for:
• Embodying and maintaining VALS values, vision, mission and strategies
• Establishing the organisation’s desired strategic outcomes and direction of strategic plans
• Monitoring the outcomes of the strategic and business plans and annual budget outcomes
• Review of annual budget proposed by the Executive Management Team
• Ensuring that VALS has appropriate corporate governance structures in place including standards of ethical behaviour and promoting a culture of corporate and social responsibility
• Ensuring compliance obligations and functions are effectively discharged
• Ensuring that all significant risks are adequately considered and accounted for by the Executive Management Team
• Participation in appropriate personal development opportunities
• Attending all meetings at the organisation’s Head Office or via video link or teleconference (available if required)
ABOUT YOU
Ideally, you will possess:
• An appreciation and understanding of the role VALS play in the community
• Knowledge and skills in one or more areas of community representation, board governance: policy, programs, finance and/or personnel.
• A strong business acumen, with the ability to think strategically and provide leadership
• An ability to help establish strategic direction, working with the CEO, Executive Management Team and other committee members to obtain the resources, funds and personnel necessary to implement the organisation’s objectives
• Good corporate governance understanding
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
• Ability to review reports, monitor performance, identify risks and help to implement strategies
• For this position, qualifications or significant experience in Risk Management, Governance, and/or strategic planning would be highly desirable.
• A time commitment of 2 hours per month, which includes Board preparation, meeting and committee meeting time
• Willingness to serve on at least one of the two listed VALS sub-committee and participate actively in its work
-Finance & Audit Committee
-Risk, Quality, and Compliance Committee
HOW TO EXPRESS INTEREST
To submit your expression of interest. please email your application to jobs@vals.org.au and we will be in contact you as soon as possible.
Overview
To provide high quality secretarial and support services to the legal staff in the provision of
criminal, family and civil law assistance to members of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth community in Victoria.
What Will You Do?
1. Undertake all secretarial tasks and associated file management tasks as provided by solicitors in relation to the ongoing file management of clients of the Service in
areas of Criminal, Civil and Family law.
2. Prepare documentation for briefing Counsel or other professionals as directed, including photocopying, collating and arranging delivery.
3. Receive phone calls on behalf of individual solicitors and follow up enquiries or record messages for action by solicitor.
4. Assist in arranging appointments for clients or making contact with clients directly.
5. Undertake filing of reports and other documentation on behalf of clients.
6. Update data base and electronic files as required.
7. Lodge and maintain Victoria Legal Aid grant applications within the ATLAS system as required.
8. Undertake relief work on reception, as rostered and participate in duties associated there.
9. Participate in the processing of ingoing and outgoing mail for the organisation.
10. Keep up to date with relevant procedures by attending professional education programs and maintain an understanding of issues impacting the youth justice system and members of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Youth Community.
11. 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
What Will We Need From You?
• 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
1. Demonstrated ability and experience as a legal secretary.
2. Advanced skills in the use of MS Office Software (particularly MS Word, Excel, Email) to a legal practice and the capacity to quickly acquire competency in the use of VALS’ client data base.
3. Professional and courteous phone manner and interpersonal skills and the capacity to communicate effectively with members of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community.
4. A commitment to the legal issues faced by members of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community in Victoria.
5. The ability to work collaboratively with others and to foster a co-operative and supportive team environment.
6. 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.
How To Apply?
To apply for this opportunity, 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: Legal Secretary – Shepparton
Please apply by 5pm Friday 23 July 2021
Overview
The Senior Criminal Lawyers are to provide high quality legal services, including duty lawyer services, representation, advice and information on criminal law matters to members of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community in Victoria.
What A Day as A Senior Criminal Lawyer Looks Like:
- You will appear as a senior advocate in various courts to represent clients of VALS;
- Conduct casework in criminal law matters, including serious indictable matters, for members of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities;
- Ensure all VALS clients are represented whilst in custody and provide emergency advice to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in Victoria.
- Supervise, mentor and train staff working in the criminal law;
- You will have the ability to act in a higher duties capacity when required.
- Support Community Legal Education and advocacy campaigns as required;
- Participate in case-planning meetings with the criminal law section weekly;
- Work cooperatively with other community organisations;
- Maintain an understanding of issues impacting the justice system and members of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities;
- You will be required to travel across Victoria to deliver services to the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. Sometimes this travel will occur outside of usual business hours; and
- As directed, undertake other duties which are incidental and peripheral to the main tasks, provided that such duties are reasonably within the employee’s skills, competence and training.
Key Selection Criteria
- Admitted or eligible for admission as a legal practitioner in Victoria;
- Substantial knowledge of and practical experience in the law and court procedures with a focus on the criminal law jurisdiction;
- Sound interpersonal skills and the capacity to communicate effectively with members of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community;
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 not-for-profit sector.
VALS is dedicated to providing a flexible, comfortable and energetic work environment for all of our employees.
Application process
To apply for this opportunity, 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: Senior Criminal Lawyer.
Please apply by 5pm Wednesday 4th August 2021
Please click below to see Position Description.
Position Description – Mildura Senior Criminal Lawyer July 2021
Overview
Criminal Lawyers are to 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.
What A Day As A Criminal Lawyer Looks Like
- Under the supervision of the Senior Criminal Lawyers and the Executive Officer Legal Practice, appear with leave as an advocate in various courts including the Children’s Court Criminal Division, Magistrates Court, County Court and Koori Courts in order to represent clients of VALS in criminal matters
- Under the supervision of the Senior Criminal Lawyers and the Legal Practice Manager, deliver a quality legal service by conducting casework in criminal law matters for members of the ATSI community.
- Participate in the on call after hours roster and Under the supervision of the Senior Criminal Lawyers and the Executive Officer Legal Practice provide emergency advice to members of the ATSI community in Victoria. Further, ensure all VALS clients are represented whilst in custody.
- Participate in community legal education projects, law reform and other VALS projects as required.
- Participate in case-planning meetings with the criminal law section weekly.
- Contribute to the collaborative relationship between Victoria Legal Aid and other community organizations with whom VALS interacts.
- Keep up to date with relevant legal developments and procedures by attending professional legal education programs and maintain an understanding of issues impacting the justice system and members of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community.
- You will be required to travel across Victoria to deliver services to the ATSI community. Sometimes this travel will occur outside of usual business hours
Key Selection Criteria
- Admitted or eligible for admission as a legal practitioner in Victoria;
- Substantial knowledge of and practical experience in the law and court procedures with a focus on the criminal law jurisdiction;
- Sound interpersonal skills and the capacity to communicate effectively with members of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community;
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 not-for-profit sector.
Application process
To apply for this opportunity, 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: Criminal Lawyer.
Please apply by 5pm Wednesday 4th August 2021
Overview
We are looking for a solicitor passionate about the social and legal issues impacting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples with 18 months to 4 years PQE to join our Civil and Human Rights practice.
As a civil lawyer, you will provide high quality legal services, including, advice and information, casework, representation and referral in civil law matters to members of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities in Victoria. While the civil lawyer will undertake casework in core areas of legal need for Aboriginal communities, the role will have a particular focus on assisting clients affected by family violence who are seeking assistance with fines and tenancy matters.
This is a full-time position based at the VALS office in Preston, Victoria. However, occasionally you may be required to travel to deliver services to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities in regional areas.
What A Day As A Civil Lawyer Looks Like:
- Assist clients with the provision of culturally safe and trauma informed advice, referrals and ongoing casework in core matters of legal need for Aboriginal communities in Victoria, including fines and infringements, tenancy, debt, consumer, Working With Children Check suspension and cancellation, employment, discrimination, Personal Safety Intervention Orders and coronial matters.
- Taking a key role with the Principal Managing Lawyer in the coordination of the VALS Infringements Clinic, including responsibility for supervision of casework and advice given by clinic volunteers.
- Appear personally as an advocate, and/or brief counsel to appear, in various courts and tribunals in civil law matters.
- Supervise non-clinic volunteers working within the civil legal team.
- Participate in community legal education projects, law reform and other VALS projects as required.
- Maintain positive and collaborative relationships with key stakeholders, including Victoria Legal Aid, pro bono law firms, the Victorian Bar and other community organisations from both the legal and non-legal sectors.
- Keep up to date with relevant civil legal developments and procedures by attending professional legal education programs and maintain an understanding of broader issues impacting the justice system and members of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Communities.
- As directed, undertake other duties which are incidental and peripheral to the main tasks, provided that such duties are reasonably within the employee’s skills, competence and training.
Key Selection Criteria
- Legal practitioner in Victoria, with at least 18 months post-admission experience.
- Commitment to and understanding of the civil legal issues faced by members of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Communities in Victoria.
- Experience working with people affected by family violence.
- Experience assisting clients with fines and infringements matters will be highly regarded.
- Knowledge of and practical experience in the law and court procedures with a focus on the civil law jurisdiction, particularly in relation to the areas of law detailed above.
- Sound interpersonal skills and the capacity to communicate effectively with members of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community.
How Do I Apply?
To apply for this opportunity, 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: Civil Lawyer
Please apply by 5pm Friday 6 August 2021
Overview
To provide high quality legal services to members of the Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander community in Victoria. Your focus will be on pre-court advice and negotiation in family violence intervention order matters with a view to resolving matters prior to the first mention date. This position represents VALS commitment to and involvement in the State Governments Justice Recovery Plan.
What will you do?
- Provide advice and negotiate on behalf of VALS clients in family violence intervention matters listed in the Dandenong, Melbourne, Broadmeadows, Sunshine, Weribee, Ringwood and Morwell Magistrates Courts.
- Deliver high quality legal services, including information, advice and casework on behalf of VALS clients in family violence intervention order matters and other related matters as required.
- Act on referrals provided by the Courts under the Early Resolution Scheme in a timely manner, noting that deadlines may be demanding at times.
- Prepare and comply with reporting requirements to VLA for data under the Early Resolution Scheme.
- Attend, participate and contribute to the planning, service delivery and continuous improvement of the Family Law Practice and VALS.
- Contribute to VALS projects, policy and law reform initiatives, and community and professional legal education programs as required.
- Contribute to the collaborative relationship with Victoria Legal Aid, Community Legal Centres, Victoria Police, State Courts and other community organisations with which VALS interacts.
- Keep up to date with relevant legal developments and procedures by attending professional legal education programs and maintain an understanding of issues, risks and trends impacting upon the provision of relevant legal services and members of the ATSI community in Victoria
What we need of you?
- Comply 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
- Admitted as a legal practitioner for a minimum of 2 years, preferably in Victoria.
- Hold or ability to immediately obtain a Victorian practicing certificate.
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Demonstrated ability in dispute resolution and negotiation of legal matters.
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Demonstrated ability to act as an advocate, deliver information, advice, casework and outreach services.
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Practical experience in relevant law and procedure in Family Violence Intervention Order matters.
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Interpersonal skills and the capacity to communicate effectively with members of the ATSI community, VALS staff and other community organisations with which VALS interacts.
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A commitment to and understanding of the legal issues faced by members of the ATSI community.
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Demonstrated ability for quick and accurate decision-making and the ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines.
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Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with others to foster a co-operative and supportive team environment.
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A knowledge of and commitment to the principles and values of the VALS.
- Competency in the use of MS Office software (Word, Excel, E-mail) and the capacity to quickly acquire competency in the use of the VALS’ client database.
Desirable
- Understanding of the role of Aboriginal legal services and Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations.
- Experience working in the non-profit sector.
How To Apply?
To apply for this opportunity, 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: Family Lawyer
Please apply by 5pm Friday 16 July 2021
Please click below to see Position Description.
Overview
The Practice Manager for Balit Ngulu team works to achieve VALS’ goals and objectives. The role coordinates and delivers a range of projects, policy and law reform initiatives, strategic litigation work, and community and professional legal education programs. The purpose of the role is to provide high quality legal services, including duty lawyer services, representation, advice and information in criminal law matters to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth in Melbourne metropolitan area and Shepparton and its neighboring areas such as Echuca and Bendigo City.
The position also manages the day to day functioning of the Balit Ngulu program.
What Will You Do?
- Plan and deliver a quality legal service for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth in Melbourne metropolitan area and Shepparton and its neighboring areas at various courts including the Children’s Court Criminal Division and Children’s Koori Courts in order to represent clients of Balit Ngulu Legal Service.
- Supervise, manage and mentor staff and contribute to the organisation through professional legal education and training
- Effectively manage the legal practice unit, including coordinating case-planning meetings
- Appear as a senior advocate in various courts in order to represent clients of Balit Ngulu Legal Services.
- Participate in community legal education projects, law and policy reform and other Balit Ngulu Legal Service projects as required
- Liaise with Government and non-Government organisations on legal issues relevant to Phase Four of Burra Lotjpa Dunguludja, the Aboriginal Justice Agreement (AJA)
- Contribute to, and participate in, the collaborative relationship between Victoria Legal Aid, Aboriginal community-controlled organisations, Community Legal Centres and other community organisations with whom Balit Ngulu Legal Services interacts
- Keep up to date with relevant legal developments and procedures by attending professional legal education programs and maintaining an understanding of issues impacting members of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Youth Communities
- You will be required to undertake some travel within Victoria to deliver services to Aboriginal youth within the service locations of the program. Sometimes this travel will occur outside of usual business hours.
- Other duties as required
What We Need From You?
- Compliance with all VALS Values, code of conduct, policies and procedures and relevant government legislation and standards where relevant.
- Demonstrate a commitment to the principles of social justice and aim to ensure every individual is treated with dignity and respect regardless of their background, ability, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation or religion
- Ensure appropriate use of resources
- Actively participate in initiatives to maintain, build upon and promote a positive and collaborative workplace.
- Take reasonable care for your own health & safety, and health and safety of others (to extent required)
- Promptly respond to and report health and safety hazards, incidents and near misses to management.
- Attend mandatory training sessions (i.e. Equal employment opportunity, health and safety, cultural safety) and mandatory training specific to position.
Key Selection Criteria
- Comprehensive understanding of the youth justice issues facing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Communities, including in respect of child protection and the Aboriginal placement principle.
- Capacity to work as an advocate and caseworker in complex matters
- Substantial knowledge of and practical experience in the law
- Ability to supervise, mentor and train staff and contribute to the development of individuals and their knowledge and skills
- Sound interpersonal skills and the capacity to communicate effectively with members of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Youth community
- A minimum of five-years post-admission experience in youth justice related matters and be eligible to obtain a Principal Practicing Certificate
- Demonstrated computer literacy skills and proficiency using the Microsoft Office and other relevant software. The capacity to quickly acquire competency in the of VALS’s client data base (ActionStep).
- 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
- Experience working in the non-profit sector.
Desirable
- A member, or eligible to be a member, of Victoria Legal Aid’s Youth Crime Subset practitioner panel
- An LIV Accredited Specialist (Children’s Law, Criminal Law or Family Law)
Qualifications – Required.
- Admitted, or eligible for admission, as a legal practitioner in Victoria
How Do I Apply?
To apply for this opportunity, 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: PML Balit Ngulu
Please apply by 5pm Monday 26 July 2021
Please view the below position description
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.
Overview
The Royal Commission into Violence, Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation of People with Disability (“Disability Royal Commission” or “DRC”) is a nationwide investigation, independent from government, into how people with disability are being treated in Australia. The Disability Royal Commission is currently in progress and will run through to September 2023 and will make recommendations to government about how to improve the lives of people with disability in Australia.
Your Story Disability Legal Support (YSDLS) is a free independent legal service funded through National Legal Aid and National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Legal Services to support people to share their stories with the Royal Commission. This is a national service and includes staff at ATSILS across Australia including VALS.
The position of Community Outreach and Support Officer is responsible for facilitating engagement with and promoting awareness of YSDLS with the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community in Victoria. The successful applicant will conduct a range of community legal education activities by providing accessible, culturally appropriate and trauma informed services and information to the community, through outreach, producing promotional materials and stakeholder engagement.
The position will also provide support to individuals as required to share their stories with the DRC. This may include providing referrals to support services such as counselling and disability advocacy. It may also involve supporting clients to write down their stories or share them through audio or video recordings as appropriate.
The successful applicant would be expected to conduct a significant amount of regional travel in Victoria.
Applicants must be Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander; identify as an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander person and be accepted as an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander person in the community in which they live.
What A Day as A Community Outreach and Support Worker Looks Like:
- Be culturally sensitive and committed to ensuring Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander access to justice.
- Operate under the general direction of the Principal Managing Lawyer, Civil and Human Rights Practice.
- Be creative and innovative when engaging Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities in relation to community legal education.
- Facilitate the delivery of community legal education in the form of:
· Materials
· Outreach
· Legal clinics
· Merchandise
· Projects
- Establish effective and productive partnerships with Aboriginal and mainstream organisations.
- Provide support to individuals seeking to engage with the DRC including providing referrals and other assistance as needed.
Key Selection Criteria
- Understanding of issues facing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people living with disability.
- Demonstrated experience working with the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community.
-
Basic knowledge of the legal system, ability to identify need for legal education in the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community and break down legal jargon into plain English.
Desirable
- Experience in working with, and providing safe services, to people with disabilities.
How To Apply?
To apply for this opportunity, 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: Community Outreach and Support Worker
Please apply by 5pm Monday 9th August 2021
Please click below to see Position Description.
Position Description – Community Outreach and Support Worker July 2021131887