• Work for Victoria’s most recognised not-for-profit animal welfare organisation!
• Assist our RSPCA Inspectors by reviewing cases of animal cruelty
• Permanent full-time position at our Burwood East site with flexible working arrangements available - one day working from home

About RSPCA Victoria

RSPCA Victoria is a non-government, community-based, not-for-profit organisation whose vision is ‘ending cruelty to all animals’. We are Victoria’s best-known and most respected animal welfare organisation.

Our organisation’s purpose is to work with the community to achieve outstanding animal welfare through education, advocacy, and animal care and protection. RSPCA Victoria’s values - clarity and accountability, respect and consideration, and expertise and collaboration - set clear expectations for all our staff and volunteers.

About the role

The Prosecutor is responsible for reviewing cases of animal cruelty and undertaking criminal prosecutions to enforce the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act (POCTAA) 1986 and certain sections of the Domestic Animals Act (DAA) 1994. The Prosecutor will be responsible for preparation, submission and representation of these matters in the courts in collaboration with the Prosecutions team.

Duties and responsibilities

• Review cases of animal cruelty and assist Inspectors to develop compelling briefs of evidence to enforce the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act (POCTAA) 1986 and certain sections of the Domestic Animals Act (DAA) 1994.
• Represent RSPCA Victoria internally and externally where appropriate, including appearing in courts (including regional courts) to conduct criminal prosecutions for offences pursuant to the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act (POCTAA) 1986, certain sections of the Domestic Animals Act (DAA) 1994 and appeals against conviction and/or sentence.
• Keep abreast of legislative changes to POCTAA, DAA, subordinate Regulations, and associated criminal legislation, including but not limited to the Sentencing Act, Criminal Procedure Act and Rules, and the Magistrates’ Courts Act, Rules and Practice Directions.
• Deal proactively with and provide written advice to other stakeholders in the criminal justice system including the Courts, Victoria Police, Department of Justice, Greyhound Racing Victoria, Racing Victoria, defence counsel and other relevant bodies.
• Sit in on the Prosecutions Panel as required and make recommendations to the Panel as to which cases should proceed to prosecution.
• Work with media as required, including assisting with statements on behalf of RSPCA Victoria.
• Contribute to a positive and inclusive work environment by effectively communicating and working collaboratively with team members and peers across all departments, and consistently role modelling the RSPCA Victoria values and associated policies.

What we are looking for from you

• Current Victorian Legal Practising Certificate.
• Experience in prosecutions.
• Demonstrates a strong commitment to animal welfare and improving the wellbeing of all animals.
• Strong aptitude for reading, interpreting and applying legislation.
• Ability to work well under pressure and manage high work volumes to consistently achieve quality results, autonomously and in a team environment.

Highly regarded

• Understanding of emergency powers to deal with animals
• Demonstrated ability to provide advice around the seizures and surrenders of multiple animals requiring coordinated teamwork and “at risk” priority setting.
• Experience handling and storing sensitive and private information in an appropriate manner, and an understanding of the requirements under the Freedom of Information Act 1982.
• History of and commitment to actively participating in relevant Continued Professional Development (CPD) as required by the Legal Profession Uniform Continuing Professional Development (Solicitors) Rules 2015.

Recruitment Requirements

• Current Victorian Legal Practising Certificate
• Valid and current Victorian Driver’s Licence
• Willingness to undergo a National Police Check

What we can offer you

• A broad range of leave entitlements, including annual leave, personal leave, additional leave (6 days per year pro-rata), purchased leave, paid parental leave, study leave and paid family and domestic violence leave
• Recognised by Mental Health First Aid Australia, as a skilled workplace - Access to a range of mental health and wellbeing supportive initiatives, including confidential counselling services and education programs
• Generous discount on products and services, including Royal Canin, Hush Puppies footwear and RSPCA Victoria retail and vet clinic products and services
• Salary packaging and novated lease arrangements on offer with leading provider, Maxxia
• Access to a range of learning and development opportunities that will benefit and support you in your role.

How to Apply

To learn more about our organisation and this job opportunity, please visit our website at www.rspcavic.org and download the Position Description attached to this advertisement for more details. Alternatively, please contact our Recruitment team via [email protected] using the subject line: Prosecutor enquiry via EthicalJobs.

If this role is of interest to you, submit your application with your cover letter and resume, addressing how you meet the selection criteria.

RSPCA Victoria is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive work environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment, and we strongly encourage people from all cultural backgrounds to apply, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. Applicants are welcome to access RSPCA Victoria’s Diversity & Inclusion Policy here.