The Legal Policy and Advocacy Manager or Lawyer leads ALRM's justice advocacy and law reform initiatives. Reporting to the CEO and Principal Legal Officer, you will manage the implementation of the Aboriginal Justice and Advocacy Service (AJAS) agreement, prepare submissions on policy and legislation, and advocate for systemic change to improve justice outcomes for Aboriginal people.
This role involves:
* Leading advocacy aligned with Closing the Gap targets (particularly ensuring Aboriginal people are not overrepresented in the criminal or youth justice systems), and key national reports.
* Drafting and presenting submissions to Parliamentary committees, law reform bodies, and government.
* Managing or participating in a small team and coordinating ALRM's advocacy calendar.
* Consulting with Aboriginal communities and stakeholders across SA.
* Occasional travel within South Australia (approx. 2 trips per year).
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Essential skills and experience:
* Eligible to hold a South Australian Legal Practising Certificate.
* Strong leadership/management experience in a legal or policy setting.
* Demonstrated experience in at least one of the following practice areas: criminal, civil, family, government or child protection law and practice and ability to learn other areas, noting many submissions relate to the criminal justice system.
* Proven ability to research, analyse legislation, and write high-quality submissions.
* Understanding of Aboriginal justice issues, Closing the Gap priorities, and human rights frameworks.
* Excellent communication skills and ability to engage respectfully with Aboriginal communities.
* Commitment to cultural safety and self-determination.
Desirable: Experience working in Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander communities or a not-for-profit organisation. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are strongly encouraged to apply.
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Special Conditions
* Flexible work arrangements available (full-time or part-time).
* Some out-of-hours work and travel required.
* Police, Working with Children, and Vulnerable Persons clearances required.
* Current SA Driver's Licence.
Applications close: 11.59pm 1 February 2026.
To apply: Submit your resume and a cover letter addressing the key criteria via Seek.
For more information, contact Julie Batt, HR Adviser