About the business

First Nations Legal and Research Services (First Nations) is a not-for-profit organisation with responsibilities to assist Victorian Traditional Owners obtain recognition of rights and interests principally under the Commonwealth Native Title Act, the Victorian Traditional Owner Settlement Act and in some cases, under the Victorian Aboriginal Heritage Act. First Nations also has responsibilities to assist Traditional Owner groups manage their rights and interests once they have been recognised. In doing this First Nations assists with the establishment of competent and viable Traditional Owner led corporations and through supporting Traditional Owners develop and exercise their voice within government and the community more broadly.

Whilst the COVID-19 restrictions are in place all of our staff are currently working from home.

About the role(s)

• 12-month parental leave position (full-time)
• 24-month engagement role (part-time)

First Nations are seeking to fill two positions to assist with this important work as follows:

• Lawyer / Senior Lawyer – 12 month parental leave position. This is a full time position with a claim / Traditional Owner Corporation focus.
• Lawyer / Senior Lawyer – 24 month position. This is a 0.5 part time position with a focus on engagement with Traditional Owners in areas without formal recognition.

These are unique opportunities to work alongside Victorian Traditional Owners to provide legal and strategic advice on native title claims and settlements and to provide assistance to Victorian Traditional Owner Corporations.

We are looking for self-motivated lawyers who are prepared to take on a diverse workload. Working as part of a team of dedicated legal and research professionals, you will have primary responsibility for resolving claims across Victoria in line with Traditional Owner aspirations for land justice and working with Traditional Owner Corporations to implement settlement agreements.

Skills and experience

The roles would suit either a lawyer or senior lawyer with at least two to three years post admission experience. Experience in working in the native title and community engagement sector will be highly regarded.

Salary and benefits

The salary range is $70K - $85K / $90K - $110K per annum plus superannuation, depending on experience. In addition, we offer the opportunity to maximise benefits with our salary packaging scheme. Our family-friendly workplace culture includes generous annual leave provisions and flexible working arrangements. We have a strong commitment to professional development and an active social club.

Working for First Nations is not a regular 9-5 role. We are highly client-focused and are looking for a person with exceptional communication skills who is interested in Aboriginal affairs and willing to meet clients on their Country to establish and maintain good working relationships. Cultural awareness training will be provided.