* Full-time, 12‐month fixed‐term opportunity (with strong potential for extension)
* $87,305.40 + superannuation + salary packaging benefits
* Hybrid working arrangement
* Preston, VIC
* Regional travel required
About VALS
VALS is an Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisation (ACCO) and Victoria's only specialist legal and support service dedicated to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Established in 1973, we deliver culturally safe legal services across criminal, family, civil and human rights law, youth justice, and specialist litigation. Our services extend beyond legal representation and include a 24/7 Custody Notification Service, transitional housing, family violence programs, individual client support, and community legal education.
About the Role
As a Lawyer in the Aboriginal Families Practice, you will:
* Provide information, advice, representation, casework, negotiation and dispute resolution services
* Focus primarily on Family Law matters, including family violence‐related proceedings
* Appear in the Magistrates' Court of Victoria and the Federal Circuit and Family Courts of Australia
* Maintain a substantial and varied caseload
* Demonstrate a willingness to conduct child protection matters
* Work collaboratively with internal teams, Victoria Legal Aid, and external community organisations
* Contribute to policy, law reform, community legal education, and service improvement initiatives
Some regional travel will be required.
Key Responsibilities
* Advocate on behalf of VALS clients in Family Law and related proceedings
* Deliver high‐quality legal advice, casework and representation
* Manage Legal Aid grant applications and reporting obligations
* Participate in practice planning and continuous improvement
* Contribute to VALS projects, education programs and law reform work
* Undertake professional legal development and stay informed of legal and sector developments
About You
* Admission as a legal practitioner in Victoria and the High Court of Australia, with a minimum of 2 years' post‐admission experience
* Experience advocating in Family Violence, Intervention Order and Family Law matters
* Sound knowledge of relevant legislation, court processes and procedures
* Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to communicate respectfully and effectively with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander clients and communities
* A demonstrated commitment to social justice and Aboriginal community‐controlled services
* The ability to work collaboratively, manage competing priorities, and meet deadlines under pressure
* Competency using Microsoft Office and the ability to learn client management databases quickly
Requirements
* Employee Working with Children Check
* National Criminal History Check
* Valid Victorian Driver's Licence
* Proof of Australian work rights
Why Join VALS?
* 17.5% Leave Loading
* 5 additional days of annual leave on top of the standard 20 days
* Generous salary packaging up to $15,900 via Maxxia
* Opportunity to work alongside a passionate, culturally committed team
* Ongoing professional development and training opportunities
* A supportive, inclusive, and culturally safe workplace environment
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