About the Asylum Seeker Resource Centre

Founded in 2001, the Asylum Seeker Resource Centre (ASRC) is Australia’s largest human rights organisation providing support to people seeking asylum. We are an independent not-for-profit organisation whose programs support and empower people seeking asylum to maximise their own physical, mental and social well being. We champion the rights of people seeking asylum and mobilise a community of compassion to create lasting social and policy change.

We are a value-driven organisation that strives to be part of a change movement that supports people seeking asylum by providing critical services such as assistance with accommodation, food provisions, casework and legal services.

The ASRC movement is proudly supported by a community of committed volunteers and supporters who embrace the organisation’s vision that people seeking asylum can live safely, sustainably, independently and equally.

Our Values

The human rights of people seeking asylum and refugees are at the foundation of all we do and the workforce makes it happen, doing the work to bring the vision and purpose to life.

Our organisational values are:

• Welcoming
• Authentic
• Courageous
• Collaborative

About The Role

The Senior Solicitor oversees a team of Associate Solicitors, Solicitors, and Volunteers, and is a key member of the Human Rights Law Program (HRLP) Management Team. This role involves collaborating with the management team to deliver legal services focused on Access to Justice, engage in Law Reform and Strategic Litigation, manage stakeholder engagement, handle media and advocacy activities, and oversee an allocated budget and resources.

Additionally, the Senior Solicitor works alongside the Principal Solicitor to provide leadership to the team, support the implementation of the program's vision, manage overall program operations, and serve as the ‘Responsible Person’ under the accreditation requirements of the National Association of Community Legal Centres Risk Management framework when needed.

About You

The successful candidate will be a highly intelligent and talented legal professional. In addition to your tertiary qualifications with current legal practice certificate, you will possess the following skills and expertise:

• Solicitor with current legal practising certificate and migration agent registration (or eligible to obtain registration)
• Demonstrated extensive post-admission experience (four years plus) ∙
• Experience in management and supervisory roles
• Excellent analytical and writing skills
• Proven time management skills and demonstrated ability to prioritise tasks and resources
• Ability to work as an effective member and leader of a team of other solicitors, students and/or volunteers
• Demonstrated competence in advocacy before administrative decision-makers and/or courts
• Cultural competency with the ability to work effectively with people from diverse backgrounds.
• Experience in working in a Community Legal Centre environment with knowledge of the NACLC risk management guidelines and audit procedures.

Lived experience of seeking asylum in Australia is highly desirable. Knowledge of policy and issues impacting on people seeking asylum in Australia as well as previous experience working within a not-for-profit environment, would also be advantageous.

Employee Benefits

Joining the ASRC means being a part of the largest human rights organisation in Australia, supporting refugees and people seeking asylum. We recognise and appreciate our incredible staff for their contribution, dedication and passion to support and empower people seeking asylum by providing the following conditions above the relevant modern award:

• Flexible Working Arrangements, including the ability to work remotely
• Annual Leave Loading of 17.5%
• Additional discretionary leave provisions including:
  • Leave due to Cultural or Religiously Significant Events
  • Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander Leave
  • Leave for Staff Seeking Asylum
  • Gender Affirmation Leave
• Free onsite car and bicycle parking
• Salary packaging (up to $15,900 per year tax free)
• Entertainment Packaging (up to $2,650 per year tax free)
• Discounts via HR systems provider at grocery and retail outlets
• Close proximity to public transport (100 metres from Footscray station and buses)

Position Description

Please find the Position Description attached to address the Selection Criteria.

Application Process

Only applications that include a CV and cover letter addressing the Selection Criteria, will be considered.

All offers of employment are subject to a satisfactory Criminal History Check, and provision of a valid Working with Children Check prior to commencement.