Please note: This opportunity is only available to Australian Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people.
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.
About the Role
The Client Service Officer (CSO) is the key cultural interface between Aboriginal Community members, VALS lawyers and the court system. Working within the Family Practice, the CSO supports clients to participate in child protection, family violence and family law processes by breaking down cultural barriers and helping clients engage meaningfully in the legal system.
This role involves assessing client needs, providing short-term intensive support, and delivering warm referrals to culturally appropriate services. As part of a multi-disciplinary team, the CSO works alongside lawyers, paralegals, administrative staff and community organisations to achieve strong outcomes for clients.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide case work support to clients, including risk and needs assessments
- Attend Magistrates, Children’s and Family Courts to support client participation
- Provide transport assistance, welfare checks, advocacy and referrals to support agencies
- Help clients understand legal processes and terminology in a culturally safe way
- Maintain strong community engagement and referral partnerships
- Liaise with courts, government and community stakeholders to support client outcomes
- Represent VALS at regional forums, meetings and community networks
- Maintain accurate case notes and reports in the VALS client database
- Contribute to cultural safety, team collaboration and VALS values
About You
- Certificate, diploma or degree in community services, social work or related field OR relevant experience with willingness to undertake further study supported by VALS
- Knowledge of the Victorian legal system
- Understanding of legal issues affecting Aboriginal communities
- Strong connection to and experience engaging with the Aboriginal community
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
- Ability to manage competing priorities and work independently and in a tea
- Proficient with Microsoft Office and client record systems
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
To apply, please provide:
- Your current resume, including education, professional experience, and two referees
Submit your application tojobs@vals.org.au using the subject line:
‘Application for Client Service Officer (Shepparton) at VALS’
VALS actively encourages and supports Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people to apply. This designated 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.