• Part-time / Full time, multiple positions available
• $93,858 to $107,074 (based on skills & experience) plus Super plus Attractive Salary Packaging option.
• Location: Morwell / Dandenong
  
• Other locations and/or hybrid arrangements may also be available.

THE ORGANISATION

The Victorian Aboriginal Child Care Agency (VACCA) operates within the context that Aboriginal children continue to be significantly over-represented in the protection and care system within Victoria. VACCA considers that it has the responsibility and the opportunity to promote, advocate for and achieve positive changes in the lives of Aboriginal children, their families and the broader Aboriginal community

ABOUT THE ROLE

The primary responsibility of the VACCA Lawyer/Senior Lawyer is to provide legal advice and Court representation to VACCA’s Nugel Program.

This is a unique opportunity to be part of a groundbreaking program at the cutting edge of child protection law for Aboriginal children. Our practice is human rights informed, and VACCA Legal works creatively with Nugel to find solutions that protect children but also keep them close to family, community, and culture.

The role involves significant Courtroom advocacy but with a difference. VACCA Nugel’s approach requires cultural sensitivity, diplomacy, and balance, and in advising our VACCA clients we listen and respect diversity of professional and lived experience. For these reasons, it is an exceptional opportunity for lawyers who want something more from their work.

Lawyers will also advise on other matters within VACCA including responses to inquiries, civil litigation, human rights issues, and strategic policy. From time to time, they may also contribute to a diverse range of projects that advance the interests of the organisation in the broader political arena including advocating for Aboriginal rights, law reform and self-determination.

ABOUT YOU

• Demonstrated high-level interpersonal skills with the ability to understand Aboriginal history and values to build trusting relationships and engage effectively with a broad range of stakeholders including Aboriginal people, Aboriginal organisations, clients, government departments, courts and the legal profession.
• Demonstrated high-level oral communication and listening skills and ability to represent VACCA in court proceedings and dispute resolution conferences.
• Demonstrated ability to produce high-quality written materials addressing various issues for different audiences or purposes.
• Demonstrated capacity to employ critical analytical skills to solve problems or provide policy solutions.
• Demonstrated high-level organisational skills, attention to detail and the ability to work under pressure and prioritise competing demands.
• Demonstrated ability to work both autonomously and also collaboratively as part of a team.
• Highly desirable
  • Knowledge of or experience in Magistrates or Children’s Court proceedings, laws and/or policies.
  • Experience in appearing as an advocate in court proceedings.

EDUCATION/QUALIFICATIONS

Mandatory

• Bachelor of Laws/Juris Doctor
• Admitted or eligible for admission as a legal practitioner in Victoria
• Regular attendance in Morwell (1x role); occasional travel to other VACCA offices and courts in Victoria (both roles).
• Current driver’s licence (applicants without this may be considered provided they are able to attend relevant offices and courts).

Desirable

• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander applicants are encouraged to apply.

WHAT WE CAN OFFER YOU!

• Professional support and training via in-house learning and development training modules
• Attractive salary packaging to increase your take-home pay
• Great career development opportunities.
• Access to Employee support and well-being program(s)
• Opportunity to work and build connections with the Aboriginal Community and culture

We strongly encourage Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders People to apply.

Applications should include a cover letter and a current resume.

We encourage applicants to view the Position Description before applying.

Please click here to view the position description, or view the attachment below.

We are committed to Aboriginal self-determination and supporting strong, safe, thriving Aboriginal communities and aim to ensure every individual is treated with dignity, honouring all cultural backgrounds, abilities, ethnicities, sexual orientations, gender identities and spiritual beliefs.

VACCA is a child-safe organisation and is committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of children and young people with zero tolerance for child abuse. All successful applicants will be required to undertake a National Police Record Check and Working with Children Check before the commencement of employment and periodically following commencement.

VACCA is an equal-opportunity employer and has a smoke-free workplace policy.