Victorian Aboriginal Legal Service (VALS)
Location: Preston, VIC | Full-Time | 2-Year Contract (possible extension)
Salary: $89,691 – $94,754 + Super + Salary Packaging
Make a real difference in young people’s lives while leading an innovative new program.
Applications close on 4th July 2025.
About Us
The Victorian Aboriginal Legal Service (VALS) is Victoria’s only specialist legal and support service dedicated to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Established in 1973, we provide a range of services including criminal, family, civil, youth justice, advocacy, and holistic support programs. VALS is strongly committed to diversity, equality and inclusion, and actively seeks applicants from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, the LGBTQI+ community, culturally diverse backgrounds, and people with disabilities or neurodiverse conditions.
About the Role
We are seeking a passionate and experienced Lead Youth Pathway Coordinator to join our dedicated Balit Ngulu practice. This role will lead the design and delivery of a new program — Strong Voice, Strong Futures — supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people who have had contact with the criminal justice system to overcome barriers to education, employment, and community connection.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead the development, delivery and ongoing improvement of the program.
- Manage stakeholder relationships across schools, TAFEs, courts, community services and ACCOs.
- Provide mentoring and guidance to the Youth Pathway Coordinator.
- Support young people directly by developing individualised plans, building confidence, and developing life skills.
- Coordinate tutoring, brokerage, and specialist support services.
- Prepare reports, contribute to evaluations, and represent the program externally.
About You
To be successful, you will bring:
- Bachelor’s degree in education, social work or related field, OR 3+ years’ experience in a similar youth support role.
- Experience working with young people, preferably Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth.
- Demonstrated leadership and mentoring experience.
- Strong stakeholder engagement and communication skills.
- Experience in program development, service delivery and evaluation.
- Commitment to social justice, resilience, and a collaborative approach.
Highly desirable:
- Experience in Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations (ACCOs)
- Understanding of family and community-led support models.
What We Offer:
- 35 hour work week with flexible working options and TOIL.
- Extra annual leave entitlements plus leave loading.
- Salary packaging to maximise take-home pay.
- Career development and mentoring opportunities.
- Be part of a passionate team creating real systemic change.
Mandatory Requirements:
- Working with Children Check (Employee)
- Victorian Driver’s Licence
- Criminal History Police Check
- Proof of work rights in Australia