Community Coronial Advocate and Support Officer
Full time 12 month fixed-term contract
Redfern Location
This is an Aboriginal/Torres Strait Islander identified position which is a genuine occupational qualification and is authorized under section 14(d) of the Anti-Discrimination Act 1977.
COVID-19 (double) vaccination is a condition of employment at the ALS.
About the ALS
The Aboriginal Legal Service (NSW/ACT) Limited (ALS) is a proud Aboriginal community-controlled organisation. As Australia’s first community legal service provider, we’ve been fighting for justice and equity for over 50 years.
We provide free advice and representation in criminal law, children’s care and protection law, and family law for tens of thousands of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people every year. We also run community programs to improve the lives of our people. We are well recognised for our work at the forefront of law reform and community advocacy.
Benefits of working with us
We offer a diverse, inclusive and supportive work environment, where you can develop and grow. We’re passionate about what we do, and we work hard.
The ALS values the health and wellbeing of our employees and we are proud to offer flexible work practices and additional leave entitlements.
Staff can choose to take advantage of benefits including salary packaging to maximise take-home pay.
About the role
The primary responsibility of the Community Coronial Advocate and Support Officer is to provide a range of assistance and advocacy to support families throughout the Coronial Inquest process in culturally appropriate manner. This includes but not limited to linking families to relevant support services, assisting them to understand legal concepts and coronial processes. The incumbent will have the opportunity to work alongside lawyers and contribute to issues relating to law reform and advocacy.
Key responsibilities and accountabilities
- Provide a range of culturally appropriate support services and guidance to families throughout the Coronial Inquest process
- Communicate with and effectively supporting, Aboriginal clients who may present as distressed, when the legal concepts involved are complex and difficult for the client to understand
- Consider and participate in strategic issues for advocacy and law reform
- Maintain a comprehensive understanding of best practice Aboriginal community engagement
- Participating in relevant committees, community groups, government and non-government meetings as requested
- Maintain confidentiality
- Undertake relevant related administrative requirements, including maintaining files in an orderly and professional manner, including the recording of all data for statistical purposes
- Assist solicitors as required in maintaining client files, appointment diaries and assist in the recording of client information and the preparation of client statistical information, as requested
- Demonstrating continuing respect and support for Aboriginal cultural practices in dealing with clients, their families, communities, directors and staff. Continuing to learn about the customs and history of local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities
- Ensuring all duties and activities are carried out in an ethical manner, complying with ALS policies, procedures and any other applicable guidelines or legislation
What you’ll bring to the role
- Aboriginality - this is an identified position under Section 14 (d) of the Anti-Discrimination Act, 1977.
- Demonstrated commitment and capacity to promote the rights interests and aspirations of Aboriginal people.
- Demonstrated experience in community engagement in an Aboriginal community context.
- Excellent interpersonal and oral communication skills with the ability to build effective relationships with Aboriginal peoples and communities and to collaborate to achieve their objectives.
- Effective administration and project management skills with well-developed time management skills to plan workload, prioritise and meet deadlines.
- Good working knowledge of technology, such as Microsoft Office and databases.
- Demonstrable personal drive, integrity, and capacity to work in a team
- Understanding and commitment to the effective implementation of Workplace Health & Safety and Equal Employment Opportunity practices.
- A willingness and ability to travel to regional, metropolitan, and interstate locations for work purposes.
Apply for the role
To download the application package for this position, please click here.
Applications for this position close at midnight, Monday 7 February 2022
