JOB DESCRIPTION

• Full-time, 12-month fixed-term contract with optional extension
• Support clients experiencing family violence with their Migration issues
• Work with family violence lawyers and family lawyers to provide holistic legal assistance

This is an exciting opportunity for a migration lawyer to join our community legal centre and contribute to a fairer and more just Victoria. The role has a primary focus on supporting our clients experiencing family violence with their immigration issues related to visas. This position will be responsible for providing high quality migration advice and casework to victims/survivors of family violence facing migration/visa related legal problems. The Migration Lawyer will work with the 'Safe landing’ program team who provide advice, casework, and representation to eligible clients in migration, family violence law, family law, Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal, infringements, and other civil law matters to provide a wraparound service.

Our Centre is committed to offering strong supports to assist our staff navigate this challenging yet rewarding work. You will have the opportunity to run your own files, undertake appearances, contribute to policy work and support community outreach and education programs.

You will have the opportunity to work with a team of committed, passionate and skilled lawyers across our range of specialty areas as well as our community development and social work teams.

ABOUT SMLS 

Established in 1973, South-East Monash Legal Service (SMLS) is a community legal centre that provides free legal assistance to people in South East Melbourne. 

SMLS is committed to advocacy and social change. SMLS is a leader in the provision of community and clinical legal education; advocacy through policy submissions and lobbying; outreach services; and targeted referral programs. 

LOCATION AND WORK OUTSIDE OFFICE HOURS 

The position will be based at SMLS offices in Springvale and Narre Warren. It will involve court attendance at Dandenong Magistrates Court and possible outreach in the south-east region.

We also offer flexible work arrangements with opportunities to work from home.

Occasional work outside normal office hours may be required, such as attending meetings and after-hours events.  

POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES  

• Advocacy and Casework 
• Provide legal information, advice, representation and casework services to clients
• Provide assistance to clients at outreach locations as required 
• Work collaboratively with the Safe Landing program team to provide holistic legal assistance
• Maintain appropriate file management system 
• Build and maintain important relationships with SMLS staff, students, volunteers, and other stakeholders 
• Contribute to the broader policy engagement of SMLS

For further information about the role please refer to the position description on our website.

If you would like to discuss the role, please contact SMLS on (03) 9545 7400 to arrange a discussion with Director of Advocacy and Development Ashleigh Newnham.