Darwin Community Legal Service (DCLS) is an independent, free and confidential service that supports members of the community to protect their legal rights. Through fair access to legal advice and support, we advocate to resolve issues of injustice and disadvantage.

Darwin Community Legal Service:

• Provides legal help, advocacy and support services,
• Collaborates to understand obstacles to justice and try to achieve reform, and
• Promotes understanding and acceptance of rights, justice and inclusion.

DCLS is a multi-disciplinary service consisting of:

• General Legal Service – information, referral, legal advice and representation in areas of civil law affecting basic rights – Darwin, Palmerston & surrounds, and NT wide where appropriate resources are available. Including Volunteer Advice Sessions – NT-wide, and the new Veterans Legal Service.
• Tenants’ Advice Service – information, referral, legal advice, legal help including representation for tenants – NT-wide.
• Seniors and Disability Rights Service – support, advocacy and empowerment by, with, and for seniors and people with a disability – especially Top End but NT-wide.
• Special projects including Older Person’s Abuse and NDIS appeals.
• Collaborative community legal education, projects, organising and advocating for rights, justice and inclusion.

We have 3 vacancies on our Board of Directors (Voluntary) Opportunities exist to contribute expertise in one or more of the following areas:

• Governance
• Not-for-profits
• Disability lived experience or professional experience in the sector
• Aged Care sector experience

Candidates identifying as Aboriginal/Torres Strait Islander, those living with a disability, those caring for someone with a disability or are involved in the aged care sector will be highly regarded.

About the Role:

The position is voluntary.

The DCLS Board provides governance and strategic leadership to the organisation and is comprised of people with a wide range of skills and backgrounds.

Meetings and Time Commitment

Board meetings are held on the third Monday of each month in person (or via Teams if necessary) from 5:00pm to 7:00pm. The role requires an additional commitment outside of the meetings to read board papers, carry out board actions, and attend other DCLS events. The role may include involvement in one or more of our board committees, which meet separately from the monthly board meeting.

Duties & Responsibilities:

For full duties and responsibilities, please refer to the Position Description attached.

Expectations of Board Members

• Attend and actively participate in meetings
• Stay informed about Board matters, prepare themselves well for meetings, and review and comment on minutes and reports
• Serve on sub-committees or Board Advisory Groups when required
• Build a collegial working relationship with other Board members that contributes to a consensual approach to decisions
• Utilise own skills, experience and knowledge to support the growth and success of the organisation
• Help communicate and promote DCLS’ mission, purpose and services
• Become familiar with DCLS’ strategy, services, resources, finances, and market/stakeholders.

If you're looking for an opportunity where you can make a positive and rewarding impact, we would welcome your application.

Applications must be received by the closing date for consideration.

Click 'Apply Now' to submit your application by the closing date.

Please contact Rachael Bowker CEO [email protected] using the subject line: Board of Directors x3 (Voluntary) enquiry via EthicalJobs / 8982 1111 for further information.