* A rewarding opportunity within the community legal sector in a dynamic, multidisciplinary organisation.
* Classified at Level 5 of VCLC Multi Enterprise Agreement with salary packaging and generous leave entitlements
About the Organisation
Comm Unity Plus Services Ltd (operating as commUnity+) is a multidisciplinary community organisation that has provided services across Melbourne's greater north and west regions for more than 40 years. We engage with communities rich in cultural diversity and are committed to empowering those who need help the most by unlocking pathways to learning connection, work and justice.
We enable positive change and growth for people through a range of prevention and early intervention programs including Community Education, Family Services, Legal Services (through commUnity+ Legal), Neighbourhood House and community engagement and development activities.
commUnity+ Legal, funded by State and Commonwealth governments and supported through philanthropic project funding, provides free legal services for people who live, work or study in the Brimbank, Melton and Bacchus Marsh communities.
About the position
The Community Lawyer plays a vital role in delivering high-quality legal advice, casework, advocacy, and community legal education. This position also supports the delivery of legal services through outreach-based clinics, including conducting client interviews and providing legal assistance as required.
In addition to direct service delivery, the Community Lawyer contributes to identifying systemic legal issues and supports law reform initiatives under the guidance of the Director commUnity+ Legal, Generalist Lead Lawyer, or Family Law Lead.
The Community Lawyer demonstrates a strong commitment to social justice and community impact, consistently delivering high standards of legal practice with a focus on meeting the legal needs of vulnerable and marginalised communities.
Key Selection Criteria
* Bachelor of Laws/Juris Doctor and a current Victorian Legal Practising certificate (or eligibility to obtain the same) preferably with a minimum of 2 years post admission experience.
* Demonstrated experience in providing legal advice, casework, and representation across relevant areas of law, including infringements, criminal law, family law, family violence, VOCAT, motor vehicle accidents, and civil/consumer law. Experience in duty lawyering and representing clients in courts and tribunals.
* Highly developed interpersonal skills, with a demonstrated ability to work effectively with clients from culturally diverse backgrounds and those experiencing social disadvantage.
* Ability to manage a large and diverse caseload, prioritise competing deadlines, and work effectively under pressure as part of a busy legal team.
* Ability to work independently at offsite outreach locations and manage tasks and workloads related to mobile service delivery.
* Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to tailor messaging for a range of audiences and purposes, including legal advice, community education, and stakeholder engagement.
* Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications (Word, Outlook, PowerPoint, Excel, Publisher, Access), Zoom, and Microsoft Teams, with the ability to generate correspondence and manage communications independently.
* High level of professionalism, integrity, and accountability and alignment with commUnity+ values.
Experience working with communities in the Brimbank Melton region and proficiency in a community language would be considered an added advantage.
A current Driver's License and the ability to travel between offices and outreach locations is essential for this role. Additionally, a Working with Children Check and National Police Check with ongoing validity are mandatory for this role.
What we offer
* Salary packaging benefits up to $18550
* 40% off Brimbank Aquatic and Wellness Centre (BAWC) membership
* Supportive and Inclusive team
* Free parking at Deer Park, Keilor Downs and East Esplanade sites
commUnity+ is a child safe organisation that is committed to ensuring the wellbeing of children and young people and protecting them from harm. Applicants must hold a valid Working with Children Check and Police check or the ability to obtain the same.
commUnity+ is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes diversity in the workplace. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are encouraged to apply.
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