The Victorian Aboriginal Legal Service (VALS) was established as a community-controlled organisation in 1973 to address the over-representation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in the criminal justice system. The organisation has a long and proud history of providing legal and service support for Aboriginal Victorians who are experiencing or at risk of experiencing negative contact with the justice system and advocating locally, nationally and internationally for the rights of Aboriginal people.

We strive to:

• Promote social justice for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples
• Promote the right of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples to empowerment, identity and culture
• Ensure that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples enjoy their rights, are aware of their responsibilities under the law and have access to appropriate advice, assistance and representation
• Reduce the disproportionate involvement of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in the criminal justice system
• Promote the review of legislation and other practices which discriminate against Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples

The organisation has grown over the years (with further expansion options being pursued) and now offers criminal, family and civil law services, client services support, community legal education and a range of community justice support programs in both Victoria and Tasmania.

The Tasmanian operation was established in 2015, the Tasmanian Aboriginal Community Legal Service (TACLS), a semi-autonomous operation for Tasmania.

About the role:

The Paralegal supports the work of the VALS legal team by providing a point of first contact and triage for people seeking to access the legal team’s legal services. You will ensure Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in Victoria who require legal assistance are given the best opportunity to access that assistance, whether through VALS or other external organisations.

We are looking for someone with:

You will have sound interpersonal skills and a demonstrated ability to interact and communicate effectively with persons seeking legal assistance. Also a commitment to and understanding of the legal issues faced by members of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Communities in Victoria.

To understand the full duties and responsibilities of the position, please read through the detailed position description located below.