About VALS
The Victorian Aboriginal Legal Service (VALS) has been advocating for and supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people since 1973. Our holistic services span criminal, family, civil and human rights law, youth legal services, 24/7 custody notification, housing, family violence programs, and much more. At VALS, we are committed to self-determination, equality, diversity, and inclusion and we are always evolving to meet community needs.
About the Role: Legal Secretary - Werribee Office
The Legal Secretary provides high-quality administrative and secretarial support to the Criminal, Aboriginal Families and Civil Law Practice Leads. Based in our Werribee office, this role acts as a key coordination point for the office and reception. You'll ensure smooth day-to-day operations, liaise with local trades and suppliers, manage resources, and contribute to a safe and efficient workplace environment. Occasional regional and interstate travel may be required.
Key Responsibilities
Provide reception duties and support to clients and solicitors.
Prepare legal documentation, assist with file management, and manage correspondence.
Organise appointments and communicate directly with clients.
Maintain the ATLAS system for Victoria Legal Aid grant applications.
Support mail distribution, document filing, and updating electronic records.
Coordinate office supply orders, technology needs, and basic workplace maintenance.
Support workplace health and safety procedures.
Assist with other duties as directed, relevant to your skills and training.
Key Selection Criteria
Essential:
* Secretarial or similar administrative experience preferred but not essential.
* Advanced skills in MS Office, particularly Word and Excel.
* Strong communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to work with clients who may be experiencing stress or trauma.
* Ability and willingness to quickly learn VALS systems and processes.
* Commitment to the values and principles of VALS and an interest in the issues affecting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.
Desirable:
* Previous experience working in a legal or community services environment.
* Familiarity with Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander cultural practices and community engagement.
Mandatory Requirements
* The successful applicant must be able to provide or be willing to obtain:
* Current Employee Working with Children Check
* National Criminal History Police Check
* Proof of full COVID-19 vaccination or valid medical exemption
* Proof of Australian work rights (e.g. passport, birth certificate, or visa)
* Current valid Victorian Driver's Licence
* Copies of relevant certificates or qualifications
Why Join VALS?
* We offer a supportive, flexible, and culturally safe working environment with a range of attractive benefits, including:
* 17.5% Leave Loading
* 5 additional days of annual leave on top of 20 days
* 35-hour work week with Time in Lieu (TOIL) for any additional hours worked
* Access to company vehicles for work-related travel
* Generous salary packaging via Maxxia
* Ongoing professional development and training opportunities
* Work alongside a passionate team delivering culturally appropriate services for community
How to Apply
To apply, please provide:
A covering letter introducing yourself and explaining your suitability for the role
A statement addressing each of the Key Selection Criteria (applications without this will not be considered)
Your current resume, including education, professional experience, and two referees
Submit your application to using the subject line: 'Application for Legal Secretary - Werribee Position at VALS'
VALS actively encourages and supports Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people to apply.
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.