• Darwin, Northern Territory
• Full Time

Make a real impact at the frontline of youth justice.

North Australian Aboriginal Justice Agency (NAAJA) is seeking a passionate Junior Youth Lawyer to join our Youth Criminal Practice in Darwin.

This is an incredible opportunity for a new or early-career lawyer who wants to build strong advocacy skills, work alongside some of the Territory’s most experienced criminal lawyers and play a role in improving justice outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people.

At NAAJA, you won’t just build a legal career, you’ll contribute to meaningful change in the justice system.

About NAAJA

NAAJA provides high-quality legal assistance and justice services to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people across the Northern Territory. With offices in Darwin, Palmerston, Katherine, Tennant Creek and Alice Springs, our lawyers appear in courts across the NT, including remote communities.

NAAJA is recognised nationally for its work in human rights, criminal justice reform and community advocacy, and we are committed to improving outcomes for Aboriginal people through strong representation, education and systemic reform.

Why Join NAAJA?

Working at NAAJA offers an experience unlike any other legal role.

We offer:

• Competitive salary ($100,449 to $106,844)
• Professional development and mentoring
• Opportunities to gain significant court advocacy experience early in your career
• Salary packaging options up to $18,450 per annum tax free
• 6 weeks annual leave
• 3 weeks personal leave and more
• The opportunity to travel and work in remote communities across the Northern Territory

About the Role

As a Junior Youth Lawyer, you will work closely with experienced criminal lawyers and gain hands-on advocacy experience representing young people in the Youth Justice Court and higher courts.

This role is ideal for someone who:

• is passionate about criminal law and youth justice
• wants to develop strong courtroom advocacy skills
• is motivated to work in a fast-paced, purpose-driven legal environment

You will also contribute to NAAJA’s work in strategic litigation, law reform and community advocacy.

What You’ll Be Doing

• With support of senior staff, represent young clients in the Youth Justice Court and Supreme Court including bail applications, hearings, pleas, committals and trials
• Provide high-quality, culturally appropriate legal advice to clients
• Travel to remote circuit courts across the Northern Territory
• Work with senior lawyers on complex criminal matters
• Contribute to law reform and advocacy addressing systemic justice issues
• Work collaboratively with lawyers, client service officers and support staff to deliver strong client outcomes

What You’ll Bring

To succeed in this role, you will have:

• Admission (or eligibility for admission) as a legal practitioner in the Northern Territory
• An interest in criminal law and youth justice
• Strong communication skills and the ability to engage effectively with clients from diverse backgrounds
• Understanding and respect for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures and communities
• Strong organisational skills and the ability to manage competing priorities
• Willingness to travel to remote communities
• A current driver’s licence

You must also be able to obtain:

• A Working with Children Clearance (Ochre Card)
• A satisfactory criminal history check

Be Part of Something Bigger

Working at NAAJA means joining a team committed to justice, fairness and community impact.

You will gain exceptional criminal law experience, develop as an advocate, and work alongside passionate professionals dedicated to improving the justice system.

How to Apply

Applicants for this position must submit a cover letter and resume addressing the essential criteria.

Apply now and start your legal career making a real difference.

Enquiries can be sent to [email protected] using the subject line: Junior Youth Lawyer enquiry via EthicalJobs. **Emailed applications will not be accepted**