The primary focus of the Paralegal is to provide paralegal and administrative support to the Solicitors at RACS. The Paralegal will report to the Supervising Solicitor supervising the relevant project and must carry out their duties in accordance with RACS’ policies and funding guidelines.

The RACS working environment can be high volume and the Paralegal must be highly skilled in managing time and priorities.

The remuneration package for the position is at the SCHCADS Award rate Level 2.3 to 3.2 depending on the experience of the successful candidate pro rata, per annum, plus superannuation contribution and loadings. Salary packaging is available.

The Paralegal’s principal duties are:

• Managing referrals from caseworkers, other welfare agencies and directly from clients;
• Completing client intake and taking instructions from clients as required;
• Liaising with clients and agencies to obtain all necessary documents and information to enable effective provision of legal advice and/or assistance;Providing scripted advice to clients;
• Preparing and reviewing briefs, letters and documentation as instructed;
• Liaising with sector partners and other stakeholders; Undertaking legal research and keeping up to date with case law developments as requested;
• Managing a large volume of client data and documentation in line with legal requirements including file management;
• and Keeping comprehensive records and tracking clients’ progress and time limits as arising.

The Paralegal is also expected to:

• Be a contributing and supporting member of the RACS team;
• Participate in RACS training and education programs as required;
• Attend external supervision and/or debriefing;Be alert to the danger of burnout, monitor own workload and be proactive in self care;
• and Perform other duties as required.

Essential Criteria

• Demonstrated commitment to refugee and human rights issues
• Ability to work independently and in a legal team
• Ability to communicate effectively with a wide range of stakeholders in a confident and a respectful manner
• Demonstrated ability to work under pressure, manage time and priorities effectively and meet strict deadlines
• Ability to work with people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds
• Ability to work with vulnerable people who may have experienced torture or traumaComputer literacy and file management skills

Desirable Criteria

• Experience working with people seeking asylum, including those in detentionExperience working in a Community Legal Centre and the ability to work in an environment with limited resources
• Demonstrated ability to use CLASS
• Demonstrated language skills other than English will be considered favourably

Application Procedure

To apply, click "Apply Now" and submit your cover letter addressing the selection criteria in full and a CV, addressed to Kerrith Sowden. Due to the urgency of this recruitment, we encourage applicants to apply early.

Interviews will be held ASAP with a view to commence at RACS as soon as practicably. Please note, that as we have an urgent need for staffing, we may make decisions prior to the close of applications should we find appropriate candidates.