Western Aboriginal Tenant Advice and Advocacy Service (WATAAS)

FIXED TERM TO 30 JUNE 2023

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.

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.

About WATAAS

The Western Aboriginal Tenant Advice and Advocacy Service (WATAAS) is auspiced by the ALS. This service is based in Dubbo and its catchment area covers as far as Broken Hill, Bourke, Walgett, Collarenebri, Lake Cargelligo, West Wyalong, Cowra, and Lithgow. 

WATAAS provides advice, advocacy, and support to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people with their tenancy matters. Staff provide assistance to tenants such as:

• informing and educating tenants.
• advocating for the reform of policies and laws affecting tenants.
• conducting strategic litigation to advance the interests of tenants.
• supporting Tenants Advice and Advocacy Services.
• training tenancy advocates and other community organisations.

About the role

The primary objective of the position is to provide day-to-day operational support for the WATAAS team, and deliver culturally appropriate tenancy advice, and representation to clients in accordance with the ALS policies, procedures and guidelines.

The position holder will work autonomously, seeking the advice and support of the Tenant Service Manager, or their delegate as required.

The position requires a great deal of dedication; a high level of professionalism and cultural understanding, and a capacity and willingness to function as both a team supervisor/mentor and tenant advocate simultaneously, whilst serving Aboriginal clients.

Key responsibilities and accountabilities include:

• Supporting and directing WATAAS employees to ensure that high quality and effective services are provided to clients and stakeholders of the service.
• Providing operational advice to the Tenancy Service Manager and the ALS regarding the operations of WATAAS services consistent with the roles, responsibilities and obligations detailed within the Funding Agreement with Fair Trading NSW.
• Organising and facilitating regular team meetings and motivating the team to achieve organisational goals.
• Overseeing risk assessments and ensuring risk assessments are complete and risks appropriately managed.
• Managing running sheets and overseeing fleet vehicles.
• Conducting community engagement activities including developing relationships with service providers.
• Managing invoices from suppliers.
• Ensuring Tenancy services administrative systems and procedures are regularly maintained and appropriately serve the needs of the clients, ALS, Fair Trading NSW, and other relevant stakeholders.

Please review the full position description for further information.

Knowledge, skills and experience

Essential criteria

To be successful in this position you will need to demonstrate:

• Aboriginality - this is an identified position under Section 14 (d) of the Anti-Discrimination Act, 1977.
• Demonstrated team management with the ability to lead a positive team environment.
• Knowledge and appreciation of the cultural and social needs of Aboriginal people combined with continuing respect and support for Aboriginal cultural practices in dealing with clients, their families, communities, and staff.
• Understanding and appreciation of the role of the Aboriginal Tenant Advice and Advocacy Services with a sound understanding of the relevant legislation and policies. 
• Demonstrated understanding of the public, social and private sector rental housing issues and challenges affecting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
• Demonstrated understanding of the public, social and private sector rental housing issues and challenges affecting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
• Excellent interpersonal, communication and time management skills.
• A current Criminal History Police Check, or willing to obtain.
• A current Employee Working with Children Check, or willing to obtain.
• Vaccinated against Covid-19.
• A willingness and ability to travel in regional locations, including overnight stays.

Desirable Criteria

• Previous experience working in supervisory role in an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander community-based organisation or working in a tenancy related service area.

Benefits of working at the ALS

The basics include tax-free salary packaging, opportunities to work from home, and flexible hours. But it's more than the basics:

• The ALS employs interesting people with a passion for justice
• We can offer unparalleled growth opportunities
• We offer the opportunity to help bring justice and equity to our communities

How to apply

Please CLICK HERE to download the application package for this position. Please submit the completed application package to Susan Gibbs, Tenant Services Manager at [email protected].

Applications for this position close 5pm, Monday 22 August 2022.