About the role
The Assessment and Referral Court (ARC) List is commencing at Geelong Magistrates' Court in January 2026, and we are seeking a Senior ARC Lawyer to join our team prior to its implementation. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to therapeutic approaches in the justice system in the South-West region by addressing the needs of accused persons who have a mental illness or cognitive impairment.
In this role, you will provide high-quality legal advice and represent clients in the ARC and other Courts and Tribunals. You will be responsible for mentoring and supervising junior lawyers, supporting their professional growth, and ensuring they understand the ARC processes. Additionally, you will oversee the delivery of VLA duty lawyer services in the ARC and will assist in the development of policies and strategies aimed at improving ARC services and access to justice. This role is based at our Geelong office on Wadawurrung Country.
About You
As Our Ideal Candidate, You Will Possess
* Extensive experience in criminal law, particularly in complex cases and using therapeutic approaches in the justice system.
* Knowledge or practical experience in mental health and/or disability law, with the ability to navigate legal issues affecting vulnerable clients.
* A strong ability to mentor and supervise junior lawyers, providing them with guidance and helping them develop their skills and understanding.
* Experience working with people with mental health issues, intellectual disabilities, acquired brain injuries, or other neurological impairments.
* An understanding of the challenges impacting on people experiencing mental illness and cognitive impairment accessing services and other related systems (highly desirable).
* A current Australian practising certificate which entitles you to practise in Victoria as a government legal practitioner (mandatory).
Note: The original wording included an invitation to apply even if you do not meet every requirement; this content has been preserved as part of the job description text outside of the formal structure.
Don't meet every requirement? At VLA, we understand that your work and life experiences can be just as valuable. If you're excited about this role but your CV doesn't align perfectly with our job description, we encourage you to apply anyway. You may be just the right candidate for this or one of our many other opportunities.
Why Geelong?
Geelong is a significant regional city offering many benefits for you and your family. Here's what makes Geelong a great place to live, work and play:
* Education: A variety of public and private schools, plus tertiary education options for all ages.
* Family-friendly services: Access to childcare, pre-school programs, and family support services.
* Healthcare: Four hospitals in the greater Geelong area, alongside a range of medical centres and allied health services.
* Lifestyle: Explore local shopping centres, vibrant markets, easy access to the coast and nature, and a calendar full of festivals and events. Easy access to some of the best coastline in the world for exploring, swimming and surfing.
Geelong offers the best of both worlds—dynamic city living with the relaxed charm of regional life.
About Victoria Legal Aid
We provide legal representation to those who need it most. With over 1400 staff employed in 16 offices across Victoria, we help people with their legal problems by providing information, advice and education with a focus on the prevention and early resolution of legal problems. Our clients come from all walks of life and so do we. We hire great people from a wide variety of backgrounds and foster a work culture that's inclusive as well as diverse. Your unique ideas and perspectives are valued so that we best represent the people we serve.
Employee Benefits
* Focus on work-life balance including flexible working arrangements
* Hybrid work from home & office model
* Training and professional development opportunities
* Excellent salary packaging options including General Expenses up to $15,900, Meals & Entertainment up to $2,650 and Novated Leasing
* Access to discounted Private Health Insurance
How to apply
To be considered for this role, please submit your current resume and a completed candidate application form (listed within the file attachments).
If you require adjustments to the recruitment and selection process or need an alternative format to any of the application material, please contact our team. For further information, please review the attached position description or contact Cassandra Generoso, Deputy Managing Lawyer, on (03) 9302 8724 or recruitment@vla.vic.gov.au.
No agency applications will be accepted.
Applications close by 11.59pm on Sunday 21 September 2025.
Other relevant information
It is a requirement that staff attend for office-based days at their primary work location. Interstate applications will be considered only where the candidate is able and willing to relocate to Victoria, unless part of a border community. VLA is committed to putting the safety and wellbeing of children first.
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