Canberra | Full-time | Fixed-term contract, to Dec 2023 (with possible extension)
The Aboriginal Legal Service is offering an exciting opportunity to provide legal advice and referrals to vulnerable Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander clients experiencing or at risk of family and domestic violence. Enjoy coming to work each day with a purpose-driven organisation that makes a real difference.
This role would suit a junior Family Law Solicitor with some relevant court advocacy experience and interest in the proactive diversion of clients and particularly children from negative interaction with the legal system.
About the ALS
Born out of a protest movement, the Aboriginal Legal Service (NSW/ACT) Limited is the primary legal service for Aboriginal people in NSW and the ACT. Our vision is to achieve social justice and equity for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, families and communities.
We offer a diverse, inclusive and supportive work environment. 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. Staff can choose to take advantage of benefits including salary packaging to maximise take-home pay.
About the role
The primary objective of the position is to deliver of culturally appropriate legal advice, and representation to clients experiencing or at risk of family and domestic violence in accordance with the ALS policies, procedures and guidelines in Care & Protection/Family Law including early intervention and outreach services, community legal education and referrals.
The ALS has received funding in order to provide legal services in Canberra, ACT and on the South Coast of NSW (in Nowra) through the FVPU. This is a holistic service providing legal representation, advice, casework assistance and referrals to Aboriginal families impacted or affected by family violence and related issues such as homelessness or contact with child protection. The FVPU also seeks to provide early support around intervention and community education around alternative pathways to ensure children are not removed from families and communities.
Your skills and experience
- Knowledge and appreciation of the cultural and social needs of Aboriginal people combined with continuing respect and support for Aboriginal cultural practices when considering service delivery and other support for clients, their families, communities and staff
- Legal qualifications and a current NSW or ACT Practising Certificate (or be able to obtain one immediately)
- Up-to-date knowledge of and experience in Domestic Violence, Care & Protection and Family Law matters in either NSW or the ACT, including court practice and procedure
- Understanding of the dynamics of family and domestic violence and its effect on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families
- Proven capacity to identify and understand legal issues facing socially and economically disadvantaged Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders peoples
- Capacity and motivation to provide quality legal representation to Aboriginal people in communities
- Excellent written and oral communication skills combined with strong time management, legal research, analytical and problem-solving skills
- Ability to meet deadlines, work autonomously and manage a diverse workload
Desirable Criteria
- Experience working in Domestic Violence, Care & Protection and/or Family Law matters
- Experience conducting matters in Local Courts/Magistrate’s Courts, Children’s Courts, Federal Circuit & Family Court, District Court, Supreme Court
How to apply
Download the application package for this position
Please submit the completed application package to Ann Pitkeathly Recruitment Manager at E: [email protected]
If you have any enquiries or would like to discuss the role, please contact Louise Coady, Principal Solicitor, Care & Protection/ Family Law at E: [email protected]
Please apply promptly, as we will shortlist and interview suitable candidates within the vacancy period.
Applications for this position close at COB Monday 29 May 2023.