Careers

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.

Position Overview

The Baggarrook Woman’s Transitional Housing Program “Program” has been established to assist eligible Aboriginal woman who have been released from prison to make a successful reintegration into the community after their release.

The Program incorporates the provision of six transitional houses and post release support to Aboriginal woman exiting prison, with the Victorian Aboriginal Legal Service (VALS) and Aboriginal Housing Victoria (AHV) working in partnership to deliver the program. While key partners, Corrections Victoria and the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) recognise that it is important to the success of the Program that it is led by VALS and AHV as Aboriginal community organisations.

The overarching objective of the Program is to improve successful reintegration of Aboriginal woman into the community after release from prison;

The Program seeks to improve the likelihood of successfully reintegrating Aboriginal woman released from prison by providing:

• Stable and secure transitional accommodation as a platform for individualised and targeted service provision;
• Culturally appropriate services which address known risk factors and the known multiple and complex individual needs of Aboriginal people;
• Services and cultural support to maximise opportunities for knowledge, skill development and social and economic participation; and
• Participants of the facility to plan and transition in to long term safe and secure housing ideally within 6-12months.

Successful implementation and delivery of the Program is anticipated to contribute to reduced reoffending for program participants.

Key Duties and Responsibilities:

1. Provide support to clients existing prison for a period of up to 18 months.
2. Ability to undertake and monitor risk assessments for the program and the individual clients.
3. Develop and continued monitoring of program templates and service delivery model.
4. Offer appropriate support to clients within a case management framework including relationship building, referrals, linking in with organisations and establishing of community supports.
5. Work with service providers to ensure the client can access culturally responsive services.
6. Liaise with prison staff that are undertaking assessment and application into the program to ensure applicant are aware of program support parameters,
7. Record client progress and outcomes ensuring that necessary statistical data is accurately recorded and that accurate case notes are kept.
8. Contribute to the development of positive relationships between the local Koori community and community services,
9. Attend and participate in staff, partner organisation and community meetings.
10. Provide monthly reports to the Line Manager.
11. Liaise and network with other Aboriginal organisations and agencies to promote the Post Release Reintegration Programs.
12. Provide activity reports on a timely basis, attend staff meetings as required, participate in ongoing training and staff development, and act at all times in a professional manner, upholding the organisation’s core values.
13. Complete quarterly reporting requirements as required by the Department of Justice and Community Safety.
14. 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

1. Demonstrated experience in case management practices including individualised support plans.
2. Demonstrated knowledge and ability to work with complex behaviours including mental health, disability, alcohol and other drugs and trauma.
3. A demonstrated knowledge of the Victorian legal system.
4. An understanding of the legal issues faced by Victorian Aboriginal communities.
5. An in depth understanding of the relationships between the VALS, government agencies and Koori organisations.
6. Demonstrated managerial skills and/or qualifications, including the demonstrated ability to deliver justice service programs.
7. Excellent written, verbal communication and interpersonal skills.
8. A commitment to and understanding of Victorian Aboriginal culture and community, and the ability to communicate effectively with members of those communities.
9. The ability to work in a multi-skilled environment.
10. Computer 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: Baggarrook Program Officer.

Please apply by 5pm Tuesday 30th March 2021

Please click below to see Position Description.

Position Description – Baggarrook Program Officer March 2021

Overview

The Aboriginal Justice Hub Project Officer is responsible for co-ordinating the roll out of our Aboriginal Justice Hub’s across the State of Victoria. The position will work closely with the CEO and Project Working Group comprising senior representatives from VALS.

Key Performance Indicators, Duties & Responsibility

1. Project manage and coordinate the end-to-end roll out of the Aboriginal Justice Hubs.
2. Oversee the logistical and secretariat requirements associated with the delivery of all meetings involving VALS and other stakeholders.
3. Work with the Project Working Group to prepare an Implementation Plan that identifies steps to be taken to successfully roll out the Aboriginal Justice Hub within timeframes and budget.
4. Act as the key point of contact for the CEO, Board, funding bodies, media, and stakeholders regarding the delivery of project milestones.
5. Develop systems to co-ordinate and track the progress of actions arising from Project Working Group meetings, including correspondence to ensure all tasks are completed.
6. Work with VALS to develop and implement an effective Justice Hub structure.
7. 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

1. Qualifications in Project Management, Business Transformation, Corporate Services, or other relevant discipline are desirable.
2. Experience in a similar project management role.
3. Excellent written and verbal communication and interpersonal skills.
4. Excellent organisational and time management skills.
5. Ability to work autonomously and with little direct supervision.
6. Stakeholder management experience in a complex governance environment.
7. High-order problem solving skills.
8. Demonstrated computer literacy skills and proficiency using the Microsoft Office and other relevant software.
9. 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
10. 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: Project Officer

Please apply by 5pm Monday 5th April 2021

Please click below to see Position Description

Position Description Aboriginal Justice Hub Project Officer

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. 

We are always actively looking for applicants from a diverse range of gender identities, sexual orientations, cultures, language groups, abilities, and experiences.

Overview

The successful applicant will be responsible for delivering the National Helpline component of the Your Story Disability Legal Support, specifically for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

The purpose of the role is assisting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander persons with disability, their families, carers and supporters to access and engage with the Disability Royal Commission and associated support services.
The successful applicant will respond to calls to the national helpline from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people with advice, referrals to support services and information about any issues arising from engagement with the Royal Commission. In addition, where appropriate, the role will also include arranging referrals to ATSILS members for follow up legal advice, as well as non-legal referrals to appropriate support services.

Key Selection Criteria 

• Knowledge: knowledge and understanding of the social, legal and justice issues including abuse and
  systemic racism faced by Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people with disabilities across
  Australia; and knowledge of the disability sector.
• Service delivery: experience in the delivery of quality, culturally safe, trauma-informed and disability
  appropriate legal and/or disability services that comply with accessibility and other relevant standards.
• Values: an alignment to the values and vision of NATSILS through a demonstrated appreciation of and
  sensitivity to the challenges our community members have faced and continue to face in their right
  for justice and equity.
• Relationships: proven experience working collaboratively and effectively with key stakeholders, especially in disability advocacy and with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.
• Initiative and independence: shows initiative, independence and ability for self-direction and self management.

Qualifications and experience:
• Relevant qualifications in social services and or community sector
• Experience working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people;
• Experience working with people with a disability;
• Experience working in not-for-profit, government or health, human services sectors or Aboriginal community-controlled sector;
• Understanding of trauma informed practice The National Helpline Officer will work with the National Coordinator of Your Story Disability Legal Support within the NATSILS team. 

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: NATSILS Helpline Officer

Please apply by 5pm Sunday 11th April 2021

Click below to see the position description

NATSILS Helpline Officer Disability Royal Commission – Position Description March 2021

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.

Membership Nomination Form_July2020

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. 

We are always actively looking for applicants from a diverse range of gender identities, sexual orientations, cultures, language groups, abilities, and experiences.

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. 

Key Performance Indicators, Duties & Responsibility

1. 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;
2. 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;
3. 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;
4. Liaise with police and other persons within the justice system to ensure delivery of a culturally relevant service;
5. Perform a range of administrative tasks to ensure the effective delivery of services to VALS clients.
6. 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;
7. 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

1. A demonstrated knowledge of the Victorian legal system;
2. An understanding of the legal issues faced by Victorian Aboriginal communities;
3. Excellent written, verbal communication and interpersonal skills;
4. The ability to work in a multi-skilled environment;
5. Intermediate computer skills.
6. Demonstrated computer literacy skills and proficiency using the Microsoft Office and other relevant software.
7. 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
8. 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: Casual CNO

Please apply by 5pm Sunday 4th May 2021

Click below to see the position description

Position Description – Casual CNO