Work With Us
Be a part of a staunch group of professionals and support staff who work to advance Aboriginal self-determination and the rights of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in Victoria of all ages.
Why should you work at VALS?
VALS is made up of Victoria’s most committed legal advocates, professionals and support staff who make a difference in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples’ lives here in Victoria.
Our commitment to diversity, equality and inclusion is celebrated. We honour our team of diverse Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, LGBTQIA+ and individuals from different cultures, language groups and experiences.
Grow, Develop & Be Rewarded
Opportunities:
• Work on diverse matters and gain significant experience
• 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 more.
Benefits:
• Getting paid 17.5% more when you take your annual leave
• Additional 5 days leave on top of the standard 20 days annual leave allowance
• Access to company vehicles for any work-related trips
• Salary packaging of up to $15,900+ per FBT available via Maxxia
Aboriginal and 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
Client Services Officer - Based in Werribee
This is an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander designated position, classified under Section 12 Special Measures of the Equal Opportunity Act 2010.
Employment Type: Full-time, 12 months fixed-term (strong potential for ongoing)
Location: Werribee VIC
Salary: $81,135.60 plus superannuation and salary packaging benefits
Flexible Work: Hybrid
Make a Difference in Your Community Victoria Aboriginal Legal Service (VALS) is an Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisation dedicated to providing culturally safe legal and support services for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people across Victoria. Established in 1973, we advocate for justice, equity, and systemic change.
This is an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander designated position, classified under Section 12 Special Measures of the Equal Opportunity Act 2010.
About the Role
As a Client Services Officer (CSO), you’ll be the vital cultural link between Aboriginal community members, VALS lawyers, and the courts. You’ll help clients navigate the justice system, provide short-term case work, and connect them with essential services. This role is hands-on, community-focused, and deeply rewarding.
Key responsibilities include:
- Supporting clients in court and explaining legal processes in plain language.
- Assessing client needs and risks, and making warm referrals to other services.
- Providing transport assistance, welfare checks, and advocacy.
- Engaging with the local Aboriginal community and maintaining strong service networks.
- Representing VALS at community meetings and forums.
- Performing administrative tasks including case notes and reporting.
What We’re Looking For
- Certificate, diploma, or degree in community services, social work, or similar – or relevant experience with willingness to study (supported by VALS).
- Knowledge of the Victorian legal system and issues impacting Aboriginal communities.
- Strong community connections and engagement experience.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
- Computer literacy (Microsoft Office and client management systems).
Mandatory requirements:
- Employee Working with Children Check
- Victorian Driver’s License
- National Criminal History Check
- Proof of work rights in Australia
Why Join VALS
- 17.5% Leave Loading
- 5 additional days of annual leave on top of the standard 20 days
- Generous salary packaging up to $15,900 via Maxxia
- Opportunity to work alongside a passionate, culturally committed team
- Ongoing professional development and training opportunities
- A supportive, inclusive, and culturally safe workplace environment
Ready to make a difference?
Apply now and help us deliver justice and support to those who need it most.
Positions open to all applicants
Senior Lawyer - Criminal Practice
Location: Preston, VIC
Employment Type: Full-Time
Salary: $101,410.40 + Super + Salary Packaging
About VALS
The Victorian Aboriginal Legal Service (VALS) has been advocating for and supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people since 1973. Our holistic services span criminal, family, civil and human rights law, youth legal services, 24/7 custody notification, housing, family violence programs, and much more. At VALS, we are committed to self-determination, equality, diversity, and inclusion and we are always evolving to meet community needs.
About the Role: Senior Lawyer
Senior 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. You will be operating as part of an integrated and diverse team that includes junior lawyers, senior lawyers, administration staff and client service officers.
Key Responsibilities
- Appear as a senior advocate in various courts including the Children’s Court, Magistrates Court, County Court and Koori Courts in order to represent clients of VALS in criminal matters.
- Appear in the Bail and Remand Court on weeknights and weekends (including nights) on a rostered basis.
- Deliver a quality legal service by conducting casework in criminal law matters, including serious indictable matters, for members of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community.
- 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 on weekends. Use of a VALS vehicle is available for this travel and a driver’s licence is required.
- Participate in the on call after hours roster (“Night phone”) and provide emergency advice to members of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community in Victoria.
- Appear for clients at remand court. At times this will require duty lawyer shifts on a rotating seven-day (including evenings, weekends and public holidays) roster.
- Supervise and mentor staff working in the area of criminal law and contribute to the organisation in professional legal education and training.
- Ability to act in the Managing Lawyer or Principal Managing Lawyer position in a higher duties capacity if required.
- Participate in community legal education projects, law reform and other VALS projects as required.
- Contribute to the collaborative relationship between Victoria Legal Aid and other community organisations 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 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
- At least 3+ years’ experience as a legal practitioner, with demonstrated capability to work as an advocate and caseworker in complex matters.
- Ability to supervise, mentor and train less experienced lawyers and contribute to the development of their knowledge and skills
- Sound interpersonal skills and the capacity to communicate effectively with members of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, including young people.
- Excellent organisation, time management, communication and interpersonal skills, including the ability to work collaboratively with others and to foster a co-operative and supportive team environment
- Basic competency in the use of MS Office Software and the capacity to quickly acquire competency in the use of VALS’ client data base.
Mandatory Requirements
- The successful applicant must be able to provide or be willing to obtain:
- Admitted as a legal practitioner in Victoria, with an unsupervised practising certificate.
- Current Employee Working with Children Check
- National Criminal History Police Check
- Proof of Australian work rights (e.g. passport, birth certificate, or visa)
- Current valid Victorian Driver’s License
Why Join VALS?
- We offer a supportive, flexible, and culturally safe working environment with a range of attractive benefits, including:
- 17.5% Leave Loading
- 5 additional days of annual leave on top of the standard 20 days
- Time in Lieu (TOIL) system for any hours worked beyond your contracted 35 hours per week
- Access to company vehicles for work-related travel
- Generous salary packaging up to $15,900 via Maxxia
- Opportunity to work alongside a passionate team committed to delivering culturally appropriate legal and support services for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander communities
- Ongoing professional development and training opportunities
How to Apply
To apply, please provide:
A covering letter introducing yourself and explaining your suitability for the role
A statement addressing each of the Key Selection Criteria (please note applications without this will not be considered)
Your current resume, including education, professional experience, and two referees
Submit your application to jobs@vals.org.au using the subject line:
‘Application for Senior Lawyer – Criminal Law Specialist Position at VALS’
VALS actively encourages and supports Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people to apply. This position provides a culturally safe, supportive, and inclusive environment where your knowledge and lived experience are highly valued.
Please note: We do not accept unsolicited resumes from employment agencies. No fees will be paid to agencies submitting candidates without a valid written agreement.
Lawyer - Wirraway Practice
Employment Type: Full-Time
Salary: $90,305.40 + Super + Salary Packaging
About Victoria Aboriginal Legal Service (VALS)
VALS is an Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisation providing culturally safe legal and support services across Victoria. Since 1973, we have delivered advocacy in criminal, civil, family and human rights law, alongside holistic programs including our 24/7 Custody Notification Service, family violence support, community legal education and culturally grounded client services.
About Wirraway
The Wirraway Police and Prison Accountability Practice represent people who 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 Role
The 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.
- Coronial investigations and inquests into deaths in police or prison custody.
- Civil litigation involving Victoria Police, Corrections Victoria or other government agencies.
- Criminal matters are defended based on police illegality or impropriety.
- Police and prison complaints.
- Strategic litigation.
- Liaison and high-level negotiation with the Coroner’s Court, Victoria Police, Corrections Victoria, legal assistance providers and wide-ranging services, including related to corrections and community health, child protection, drug and alcohol and family violence.
- Work closely with the Policy, Communications and Strategy team to prepare advice and support policy and law reform work in areas relating to police and prison accountability.
- Work closely with the Community Justice Program team to develop and deliver community legal education across Victoria.
- Provide guidance and advice in both written and oral form to the other practice areas within VALS Legal Services.
- Increase professional development outcomes through internal training and development opportunities, working with relevant legal teams and stakeholders.
- Establish effective and productive partnerships with Aboriginal and mainstream services and other support organisations.
Essential Criteria
- Knowledge and understanding of the social, legal and justice issues including abuse and systemic racism faced by Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people in Victoria.
- Experience working with Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people, including the ability to communicate effectively with Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people experiencing significant stress.
- High level advocacy and legal skills with 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 with internal and external stakeholders including members of Aboriginal communities, Courts, Judiciary, support services and Government Departments.
- Ability and willingness to undertake travel in Victoria.
Qualifications and Mandatory Checks
- A current, unrestricted Victorian Practising Certificate
- A current Employee Working with Children Check card
- A valid Victorian Driver’s license
- A National Criminal History Check
- Proof of work rights in Australia, such as an Australian passport, birth certificate, or valid visa documentation
Why Join VALS
- Lead a newly established specialist service
- 17.5% Leave Loading
- 5 additional days of annual leave on top of the standard 20 days
- Generous salary packaging up to $15,900 via Maxxia
- Real influence over service design and practice
- Work within an Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisation
- Integrated multidisciplinary model of care
- Strong organisational support and professional development
- Purpose-driven work with long-term community impact
Ready to lead change where it matters most?
Submit your application via the link (only) using the subject line: ‘Application for Lawyer – Wirraway at VALS’ All other enquiries to jobs@vals.org.au
Principal Managing Lawyer - Family Violence Service
Location: Preston, VIC
Employment Type: Full-Time
Salary: $139,000 – $154,000 + Super + Salary Packaging
About VALS
The Victorian Aboriginal Legal Service (VALS) is an Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisation (ACCO) and the state’s only specialist legal and support service dedicated to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. Established in 1973, VALS provides culturally safe legal advice and representation across criminal, family, civil, and human rights law, youth justice, and specialist litigation. Our broader supports include a 24/7 Custody Notification Service, transitional housing for women exiting custody, family violence programs, one‑to‑one client support, and community legal education.
The VALS Family Violence Service has been newly established to provide a specialist, culturally grounded and multidisciplinary response for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander adults and young people experiencing or responding to family violence across Victoria. The service recognises that family violence in Aboriginal communities occurs within a broader context shaped by systemic racism, intergenerational trauma and cumulative disadvantage. It has been developed to provide a culturally safe, needs specific and holistic approach that integrates legal and non-legal support, ACE support and cultural guidance.
Role Summary
Key Responsibilities
- Ensure the Family Violence Service provides a high quality, culturally safe and specialist family violence response for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people across Victoria.
- Oversee day to day operations and staff across the multidisciplinary team, including allocation of work, supervision, support, case planning oversight, reporting requirements and practice management decisions.
- Ensure culturally safe and effective induction, professional guidance, supervision, mentoring and workforce development for all members of the Family Violence Service, including legal and non-legal.
- Lead and conduct complex casework within the service, including matters involving misidentification, family violence intervention orders, criminal matters linked to family violence and other integrated legal issues.
- Represent VALS clients in complex matters and support the professional development of the wider team in advocacy.
- Contribute to VALS budgeting, strategic planning and risk management processes. Ensure the effective implementation of associated actions across the Family Violence Service.
- Identify opportunities to enhance and develop the Family Violence Service, including new initiatives, proposals and funding opportunities that strengthen strategic aims and increase access to specialist support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
- Represent and advocate for VALS in stakeholder networks, meetings, inquiries and policy discussions relating to family violence and misidentification. Participate in VALS PML and executive meetings and other advocacy activities.
- Contribute to relevant policy, strategy, and communications work within VALS. Ensure all staff collaborate effectively with the Policy team where needed.
- Lead and deliver in house training, professional development and community legal education relating to family violence, misidentification, and culturally safe practice.
- Work closely with the VALS Community Justice Program to ensure services targeted to community need.
About You – Essential Requirements
- A current, unrestricted Victorian Practising Certificate and ability to hold a Principal Practising Certificate.
- Demonstrated advanced experience in family violence, criminal law or related areas involving Aboriginal clients, including complex matters involving misidentification.
- Strong understanding of the experiences of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in family violence contexts and the broader factors influencing legal and non-legal needs.
- Experience supervising multidisciplinary teams in a culturally safe and trauma informed environment.
- Proven capacity to manage a specialist service, including practice governance, risk management, quality assurance, planning and reporting.
- Experience developing and implementing new programs or initiatives, including funding proposals and project management.
- Highly developed interpersonal, presentation, written and verbal communication skills, including with clients experiencing distress, courts, ACCOs and partner agencies.
- Ability to provide specialist legal advice, guidance and support to the Family Violence Service and broader VALS staff.
Qualifications & Mandatory Checks
- A current Employee Working with Children Check card
- A valid Victorian Driver’s license
- A National Criminal History Check
- Proof of work rights in Australia, such as an Australian passport, birth certificate, or valid visa documentation
What We Offer
- 17.5% Leave Loading
- 5 additional days of annual leave on top of the standard 20 days
- Generous salary packaging up to $15,900 via Maxxia
- Opportunity to work alongside a passionate, culturally committed team
- Ongoing professional development and training opportunities
- A supportive, inclusive, and culturally safe workplace environment
How to Apply
Baggarrook Program Officer
Location: West Melbourne, VIC
Employment Type: Full-Time
Salary: $85,412.60 + Super + Salary Packaging
Make a Real Impact in Community Justice
Walk alongside Aboriginal women as they build independence, stability, and a stronger future.
The Victorian Aboriginal Legal Service (VALS) is expanding our Community Justice Programs team and is seeking a committed, relationship-driven Program Officer to support Aboriginal women transitioning from prison back into the community.
About Baggarrook
The Baggarrook Women’s Transitional Housing Program is a unique, culturally grounded initiative supporting Aboriginal women following incarceration. Working closely with participants, Aboriginal Housing Victoria, and a range of community partners, you will help women rebuild their lives, set meaningful goals, and secure long-term housing.
If you are passionate about social justice, empowerment, and community-led support, this is an opportunity to do work that truly matters.
Why join VALS?
- Be part of Victoria’s only specialist legal and support service dedicated to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.
- Work in a culturally safe, community-controlled environment driven by respect and self‑determination.
- Support women at one of the most critical points in their lives – your work truly matters.
- Access opportunities for development, collaboration and meaningful community engagement.
- Inclusive workplace welcoming Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, LGBTQIA+ communities, people with disability and people from diverse cultural backgrounds.
About the role
As a Baggarrook Program Officer, you will work 1:1 with women exiting prison, helping them transition into stable housing and community life.
You will:
- Build strong, trusting relationships with program participants and key services
- Attend DPFC and Tarrangower to meet women pre‑release
- Provide intensive post‑release support for 6-12 months, including transport to appointments and confidence‑building support
- Assist participants with goal setting, planning and independent living skills
- Conduct and monitor risk assessments
- Work from the Baggarrook Inner West Metro site to support clients onsite
- Make culturally safe referrals and link women with health, housing, AOD, family violence and community supports
- Liaise with prison staff regarding assessments and referrals
- Maintain accurate client records in line with VALS policies
- Build strong community and service relationships
- Contribute to reporting, meetings and community engagement activities
- Support events, projects and ad hoc organisational needs
What you’ll bring
- Strong relationship‑building skills, especially with people experiencing trauma, AOD, disability or complex needs
- Experience providing 1:1 support or case management
- Understanding of the Victorian legal system and issues impacting Aboriginal communities
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Ability to work flexibly within a multi‑skilled team
- Good digital and administrative capability
- Experience in the not‑for‑profit sector or an ACCO (highly regarded)
Mandatory requirements
- Employee Working with Children Check
- Victorian Driver’s Licence
- National Criminal History Check
- Proof of working rights in Australia
Ready to create change?
If you’re driven to empower Aboriginal women and support stronger, safer communities, we encourage you to apply. VALS strongly welcomes Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander applicants.
Senior Training Officer
- 0.8 Part Time (Monday – Thursday)
- 12-month Fixed Term
- Preston, VIC
- $105,000-$110,000 (pro rata) + Super + Salary Packaging
- Hybrid (1-day WFH)
Are you a community lawyer, legal assistance lawyer or a professional working in an allied legal role who understands the legal system from the client perspective? Do you feel strongly about the need for lawyers to provide a better service to First Nations people? Are you excited by the prospect of creating positive change across the whole Victorian legal sector?
The Victorian Aboriginal Legal Service (VALS) is looking for a passionate Senior Training Officer to develop and deliver impactful workshops to help build the cultural capability of legal professionals across the state.
The First Nations Cultural Capability Uplift (FNCCU) Project is a major statewide program transforming how Victorian legal services support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander clients and we are looking for skilled trainers to join the team.
Why join VALS?
For over 50 years, VALS has been a vital Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisation providing culturally safe legal and support services for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
You’ll be joining the growing Research and Evidence Development team, delivering the First Nations Cultural Capability Uplift (FNCCU) Project – a major statewide program transforming how Victorian legal services support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander clients.
About the role
As the Senior Training Officer, you’ll deliver high‑quality cultural capability training to legal professionals across Victoria. You’ll facilitate online and in‑person workshops (including regional travel), support continuous improvement, and contribute to the meaningful evolution of training programs during the FNCCU Pilot and Phase 1 rollout. This role is hands-on, collaborative, and central to driving sector-wide change in cultural safety and responsiveness.
What you’ll do:
Facilitation & Delivery
- Facilitate and co‑facilitate dynamic training workshops across metro and regional Victoria.
- Manage end‑to‑end workshop delivery: venue liaison, materials, tech setup, and pack‑down.
- Collect learner feedback and support evaluation activities.
- Travel as required (including occasional overnight stays).
Training Development & Design
- Co‑design, refine, and adapt training content using best‑practice adult learning principles.
- Collaborate with internal teams, legal peak bodies, private firms, and community organisations.
- Contribute to training assets: facilitator guides, run sheets, learner resources, eLearning modules, and slide decks.
- Use VALS’ Learning Management System to build and review online modules.
- Analyse learner feedback and participate in continuous improvement processes.
General & Project Support
- Support project activities, meetings, events, documentation, and other tasks as required.
About you
You are a community lawyer or allied legal professional with strong communication skills and a passion for culturally safe practice and adult learning. You can confidently deliver training material, engage and build trust with diverse audiences across metro and regional locations. You have experience developing learning materials (online and face to face learning context) that are practical, respectful, and impactful.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are strongly encouraged to apply
You’ll bring
- 3+ years’ experience working as a community lawyer, legal assistance lawyer, community service officer, youth justice worker, Koorie Caseworker or allied legal professional.
- Ability to create engaging, inclusive learning environments through strong communication and facilitation
- Strong understanding of adult learning principles and diverse training methods (in-person, online, hybrid, LMS).
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to engage with diverse learners and stakeholders
- Confidence using Microsoft Office, Zoom, and e- learning authoring tools and LMS platforms.
Highly regarded
- Tertiary qualifications in Indigenous Studies, Education, Law, Social Work, Community Development, or similar.
Significant experience in the legal sector or professional development settings.
Mandatory requirements
- Victorian Employee Working with Children Check
- Victorian Driver’s Licence
- National Criminal History Check
- Australian working rights
What We Offer
- 17.5% Leave Loading
- 5 additional days of annual leave on top of the standard 20 days
- Generous salary packaging up to $15,900 via Maxxia
- Opportunity to work alongside a passionate, culturally committed team
- Ongoing professional development and training opportunities
- A supportive, inclusive, and culturally safe workplace environment
Ready to apply?
If you want your work to create meaningful change, and you’re passionate about strengthening cultural capability in the legal sector, we’d love to hear from you.
Apply now with your CV and a brief cover letter outlining your interest and relevant experience.
Managing Lawyer - Family Violence Service
Location: 273 High Street, Preston VIC 3072
Employment Type: Full Time, 12-Month Fixed Term (potential to be ongoing)
Salary: $120,000 + Super + Salary Packaging
This is a rare opportunity to establish and lead a newly created Family Violence Service at VALS. You will shape the service model, build a high‑performing team, and deliver culturally safe, multidisciplinary support to clients across Victoria.
If you’re a senior practitioner who wants influence, impact and the chance to build something meaningful then this role is for you.
About Victoria Aboriginal Legal Service (VALS)
VALS is an Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisation providing culturally safe legal and support services across Victoria. Since 1973, we have delivered advocacy in criminal, civil, family and human rights law, alongside holistic programs including our 24/7 Custody Notification Service, family violence support, community legal education and culturally grounded client services.
About the Family Violence Service
Our new multidisciplinary model brings together lawyers, family violence practitioners, Aboriginal Community Engagement Workers, paralegals and support staff. The service integrates legal advocacy with social support, safety planning, cultural connection and holistic case coordination.
The focus is on reducing misidentification, improving justice outcomes and ensuring clients receive safe, dignified and culturally secure support.
The Role
As Managing Lawyer, you will provide leadership, practice oversight and operational management of the Family Violence Legal Team. Your work will combine:
Service Leadership and Operations
- Lead the establishment and ongoing development of the service
- Oversee day‑to‑day operations, file allocation and court coverage
- Ensure high‑quality, integrated multidisciplinary practice
People and Culture
- Supervise and mentor lawyers and paralegals
- Support professional development, wellbeing and performance
- Foster a positive, inclusive and culturally safe team culture
Legal Practice
- Provide expert legal representation in family violence and related criminal matters
- Manage high‑risk and complex caseloads
- Offer specialist guidance on misidentification and integrated responses
Sector Impact
- Represent VALS in stakeholder forums and partnerships
- Contribute to policy, law reform and service improvement initiatives
- Deliver training and community legal education
Who We Are Looking For
A values-driven senior practitioner who:
- Brings strong cultural humility and trauma‑informed practice
- Has exceptional leadership presence and emotional intelligence
- Thrives in complex, fast‑paced and high‑risk environments
- Is motivated by service-building and long-term impact
- Can balance compassion with accountability and high professional standards
Essential Criteria
- Current unrestricted Victorian Practising Certificate and ability to hold a Principal Practising Certificate
- Significant experience in family violence, criminal law or related practice areas involving Aboriginal clients
- Demonstrated experience with complex matters, including misidentification
- Strong understanding of culturally safe and trauma-informed practice
- Experience supervising staff within multidisciplinary service models
- Proven service leadership and operational management capability
- Strong stakeholder engagement and communication skills
Why Join VALS
- Lead a newly established specialist service
- 17.5% Leave Loading
- 5 additional days of annual leave on top of the standard 20 days
- Generous salary packaging up to $15,900 via Maxxia
- Real influence over service design and practice
- Work within an Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisation
- Integrated multidisciplinary model of care
- Strong organisational support and professional development
- Purpose-driven work with long-term community impact
Ready to lead change where it matters most?
Submit your Resume and Cover Letter and take the lead in building a culturally safe, specialist Family Violence Service that strengthens safety, reduces harm and improves justice outcomes.
We are committed to equity, inclusion and accessibility. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander applicants are strongly encouraged to apply. We welcome people from diverse cultural backgrounds and LGBTIQA+ communities, and we actively support workplace adjustments throughout recruitment and employment.
Regional Managing Lawyer - Aboriginal Families Practice
Location: Shepparton, VIC
Employment Type: Full-time, 12-month fixed-term (strong potential to become ongoing)
Salary: $110,000 + superannuation + salary packaging
Work Model: Hybrid and flexible work arrangements
Build a meaningful legal career in Shepparton. Serve your local community.
The Victorian Aboriginal Legal Service (VALS) is seeking a community-focused lawyer to lead and deliver family law services for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families in the Shepparton region.
This role is designed for a lawyer who is already part of the Goulburn Valley community, or someone who is intentionally choosing to build their life and long-term legal career in Shepparton.
It offers stable, meaningful regional practice, strong organisational support, and the opportunity to make a genuine difference in the lives of local families through culturally safe, community-based legal work.
About VALS
VALS is Victoria’s only Aboriginal Community Controlled legal service. We deliver culturally safe legal and support services across family law, child protection, family violence, criminal law, youth justice, civil law and human rights.
Our work is grounded in self-determination, community leadership and justice for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
About the role
This is a community-based leadership role focused on delivering consistent, high-quality family law services in the Shepparton region.
You will:
- Provide family law, child protection and family violence legal services to local clients
- Manage complex matters within a supported team environment
- Supervise and support Client Service Officers
- Build strong relationships with local Aboriginal organisations and community services
- Develop and maintain a strong working relationship with the Client Support Officer including: day to day direction, and maintaining a joint understanding of clients legal and non legal needs through weekly assessment meetings.
- Work collaboratively with local courts, Victoria Legal Aid and regional service providers
- Contribute to community legal education and prevention work
- Be part of a broader VALS practice structure that supports safe, sustainable legal work
This role prioritises continuity of service, strong local relationships, and long-term community impact.
About you
You are a community-minded legal practitioner who values stability, meaningful work and strong professional relationships.
You will bring:
- Admission (or eligibility for admission) as a legal practitioner with an unrestricted practising certificate
- Experience in family law, child protection or family violence
- Capacity to manage complex matters with appropriate support
- Experience supervising, mentoring or supporting colleagues (formal or informal)
- Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively within a regional office, including with other teams where client need has been identified.
- Strong communication skills and respectful engagement with Aboriginal communities
- A commitment to culturally safe practice
- Alignment with VALS values and purpose
Mandatory requirements:
Working with Children Check, Police Check, Driver Licence, and proof of right to work in Australia.
Why join VALS?
- Long-term, community-based legal career pathway
- Purpose-driven work that creates real local impact
- Culturally safe, community-controlled workplace
- Strong organisational support and professional backing
- Stable regional practice environment
- Salary packaging and not-for-profit benefits
- Flexible and hybrid work arrangements
- Inclusive and supportive workplace culture
Apply If:
you are seeking a meaningful legal role in Shepparton and want to contribute to justice, safety and wellbeing for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families in your local community, we encourage you to apply.
VALS strongly encourages applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, LGBTQIA+ communities, people with disability and people from culturally diverse backgrounds. Recruitment adjustments are available on request.
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
Posted on:
https://www.seek.com.au/job/90126350 Location: Preston, VICEmployment Type: Full‑time, 12‑month fixed termSalary: $87,305.40 – $101,410.40 (based on experience) + Super + Salary PackagingFlexibility: 2 days WFH Make a real impact in the lives of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. The Victorian Aboriginal Legal Service (VALS) is looking for a passionate Mental Health Lawyer or Senior Mental Health
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https://www.seek.com.au/job/90126172 Location: Preston, VICEmployment Type: Full-TimeSalary: $101,410.40 – $105,905.80 + Super + Salary Packaging About VALSThe Victorian Aboriginal Legal Service (VALS) has been advocating for and supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people since 1973. Our holistic services span criminal, family, civil and human rights law, youth legal services, 24/7 custody notification, housing, family
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https://www.seek.com.au/job/90125808 Location: Preston, VICEmployment Type: Full-Time Salary: $87,305 – $93,305 + Super + Salary Packaging About VALS Victoria Aboriginal Legal Service (VALS) is an Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisation (ACCO) and the state’s only specialist legal and support service dedicated to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. Established in 1973, we provide culturally safe legal
Posted on:
https://www.seek.com.au/job/90125401 Location: Mildura VICEmployment Type: Full-Time | 6-Month Fixed Term Salary: $72,381.40 + Super + Salary PackagingWe are seeking a dedicated and experienced Legal Secretary to join our team. In this role, you will provide high-quality secretarial and administrative support to legal staff delivering criminal, family, and civil law services to Aboriginal and Torres
Posted on:
https://www.seek.com.au/job/90124557 Part Time – Fixed Term – Preston, VICSalary: $105,000-$110,000 (pro rata) + Super + Salary PackagingFlexibility: Hybrid (1-day WFH) Are you a legal professional ready to share your knowledge in a training role?Perhaps you are a coach, or educator with experience working alongside the legal profession?Or maybe you are a lawyer
Posted on:
https://www.seek.com.au/job/90126350 Location: Preston, VICEmployment Type: Full‑time, 12‑month fixed termSalary: $87,305.40 – $101,410.40 (based on experience) + Super + Salary PackagingFlexibility: 2 days WFH Make a real impact in the lives of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. The Victorian Aboriginal Legal Service (VALS) is looking for a passionate Mental Health Lawyer or Senior Mental Health
Posted on:
https://www.seek.com.au/job/90126172 Location: Preston, VICEmployment Type: Full-TimeSalary: $101,410.40 – $105,905.80 + Super + Salary Packaging About VALSThe Victorian Aboriginal Legal Service (VALS) has been advocating for and supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people since 1973. Our holistic services span criminal, family, civil and human rights law, youth legal services, 24/7 custody notification, housing, family
Posted on:
https://www.seek.com.au/job/90125808 Location: Preston, VICEmployment Type: Full-Time Salary: $87,305 – $93,305 + Super + Salary Packaging About VALS Victoria Aboriginal Legal Service (VALS) is an Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisation (ACCO) and the state’s only specialist legal and support service dedicated to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. Established in 1973, we provide culturally safe legal
Posted on:
https://www.seek.com.au/job/90125401 Location: Mildura VICEmployment Type: Full-Time | 6-Month Fixed Term Salary: $72,381.40 + Super + Salary PackagingWe are seeking a dedicated and experienced Legal Secretary to join our team. In this role, you will provide high-quality secretarial and administrative support to legal staff delivering criminal, family, and civil law services to Aboriginal and Torres
Posted on:
https://www.seek.com.au/job/90124557 Part Time – Fixed Term – Preston, VICSalary: $105,000-$110,000 (pro rata) + Super + Salary PackagingFlexibility: Hybrid (1-day WFH) Are you a legal professional ready to share your knowledge in a training role?Perhaps you are a coach, or educator with experience working alongside the legal profession?Or maybe you are a lawyer
Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander
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 of work and/or role, as well as your preferred region.
Please email jobs@vals.org.au
We will contact you as new opportunities arise.
How to apply for a role at VALS
To apply for one of the job 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, noting the key selection criteria is found within the position description.
- Your resume detailing your education and professional experience, along with two referees.
Please submit your application to jobs@vals.org.au using the subject line: X POSITION TITLE
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 a valid and current Employee Working with Children Card.
- You will be required to complete a current Criminal History Police Check.
- Proof of rights to work in Australia, such as a copy of an Australian Passport, Birth Certificate, or Immigration VISA documentation
- Current and valid Victorian Driver’s License
- Copies of any certificates, qualifications or degrees relevant to that role