• Providing advice, advocacy and liaison services to minimise factors which impact adversely upon the educational experienceof students
• Challenging and rewarding role in student rights work
• Excellent staff benefits

ABOUT UMSU

The University of Melbourne Student Union Inc (UMSU) is a dynamic, for-purpose incorporated association, serving as the representative body for all students at the University of Melbourne. Structured around student control of student affairs, UMSU is governed by an elected Students’ Council and twelve committees, chosen by and from the student body.

Located in the heart of the University of Melbourne’s award-winning student precinct, UMSU is a vibrant, creative, and diverse social justice organisation committed to representing and supporting University of Melbourne students. Our offerings include an arts and culture program for emerging student artists in a state-of-the-art theatre, a professional art gallery, and the iconic Rowden White Library. We host events co-designed by students supported by professional staff, and publish multiple student-led publications, including Farrago. Beyond that, UMSU runs a food relief program, oversees volunteer programs, and supports over 200 affiliated student clubs.

Our commitment extends beyond engagement to essential support services, including a food relief program, volunteer opportunities, and a free legal and advocacy service for students. Each of our dedicated student departments, committees, and collectives play a pivotal role in shaping the university experience.

UMSU's overarching goal is to enhance student life at the University of Melbourne. We achieve this by elevating and representing student voices through purposeful engagement and advocacy, offering exceptional programs, services, and opportunities that promote inclusivity and accessibility.

ABOUT THE DIVISION

The Advocacy & Legal Division encompasses a co-located Community Legal Centre and Advocacy Service available to all students of the University of Melbourne.

The vision of the Advocacy Service is to support the development of a university community where students are empowered to negotiate academic and administrative issues, supported by independent and expert advice. The Advocacy team aims to empower students with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to navigate the university’s policies and procedures.

The Advocacy Service’s purpose is to help address the inherent power imbalance between students and the University by providing expert, independent advice to students on their rights and obligations in the context of their education. We also use this casework to inform and support the work of elected student representatives in identifying and addressing systemic problems to manifest meaningful change.

ABOUT THE ROLE

We are looking for suitably skilled staff (social workers, or those with a legal background) to provide information and advice to students about their rights at University.

An opportunity exists for an Advocate to provide high level advice, advocacy and liaison services to minimise factors which impact adversely upon the academic rights of students in our busy service. The Advocate is responsible for assisting students to resolve disputes through the interpretation and application of relevant University of Melbourne policies, procedure, statutes and regulations and will also utilise well developed skills and expertise in research in order to provide elected student representatives with informed advice on policy and other issues relevant to students’ experience at the University.

ABOUT YOU

To succeed in this position, you will have:

• Relevant tertiary qualifications, with at least 2 years subsequent experience; or, an equivalent combination;
• Previous student rights advocacy and negotiation experience;
• Well-developed analytical and problem solving skills proven ability to apply them to provide information, independent advice, support and referral to students in a confidential setting;
• Demonstrated skills and expertise in research, in order to provide well-informed advice on policy and other issues relevant to students’ experience at the University; and
• Excellent verbal, interpersonal and written communication skills.

View full Position Description here.

In return we offer:

• Genuine opportunity for life/work balance
• 5 weeks annual leave (pro rata) + leave loading
• Access to professional development opportunities
• A unique workplace culture and lifestyle

This is a full-time continuing position with a base salary of $91,464 per annum plus 12% superannuation.

All applicants require:

• A valid Employee Working with Children Check
• Verification of unrestricted work rights in Australia, for example, citizenship, passport or birth certificate
• Certified copies of qualifications
• To be available to work on campus at least 60% of the time

UMSU reserves the right to withdraw an advertised position at any stage.

At UMSU we value diversity, embrace difference and nurture a connected, safe and respectful community. UMSU is a proud member of the Australian Network for Disability. We strongly encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and people of all cultures, abilities, sex and genders.