• Identified role for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people
• Support young people through youth justice and community pathways
• $81,000 + super + salary packaging

This is an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander designated position under Section 12 of the Equal Opportunity Act 2010.

• Location: Wyndham, VIC (with travel across metropolitan and regional Victoria)
• Employment Type: Full Time, 12-month Fixed Term
• Flexibility: 1-day WFH

Help Aboriginal young people build stronger futures

Every young person deserves someone in their corner.

As an Aboriginal Community Engagement Worker with Balit Ngulu, you'll walk alongside Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and young people as they navigate the youth justice system, helping them stay connected to culture, family and community while supporting positive life outcomes.

This is more than a case management role. It's an opportunity to advocate, build trust, strengthen cultural identity and help create pathways away from the youth justice system.

About VALS

Victoria Aboriginal Legal Service (VALS) is the state's only Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisation dedicated to providing specialist legal and support services for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Since 1973, we've provided culturally safe legal representation, advocacy and community support across Victoria, working to advance justice, self-determination and stronger communities.

About Balit Ngulu

Balit Ngulu, meaning "Strong Voice" in the Woi Wurrung language, is VALS' specialist youth justice program.

We provide culturally safe legal representation alongside holistic support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and young people. Our multidisciplinary team works with young people, families, communities and partner organisations to reduce involvement with the youth justice system while promoting wellbeing, resilience and cultural connection.

Why join VALS?

When you join Balit Ngulu, you'll become part of a passionate team committed to creating lasting change.

We offer:

• Salary of $81,000 plus Super
• Attractive salary packaging benefits
• Full-time fixed-term employment
• Ongoing professional development and training
• A supportive and culturally safe workplace
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Meaningful work that creates positive outcomes for Aboriginal young people and their families

About the role

You'll provide culturally safe support to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people involved in the youth justice system.

Working closely with lawyers and external service providers, you'll help young people access services, advocate on their behalf, participate in case planning, support them through legal processes and strengthen their connection to culture and community.

Every day is different, and your work will have a direct impact on the lives of young people.

Key responsibilities

You'll:

• Support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people to access services and supports
• Build strong relationships with clients, families and communities
• Provide advocacy and warm referrals to Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations and other support services
• Attend court and support clients through legal and non-legal processes
• Participate in multidisciplinary case planning
• Maintain accurate client records and documentation
• Liaise with partner agencies including courts, youth justice, child protection and community organisations
• Promote the Balit Ngulu program within the community
• Travel across metropolitan and regional Victoria as required

About you

You'll bring:

• Strong connections to, and understanding of, Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander communities
• Experience working with Aboriginal young people
• Knowledge of the issues impacting Aboriginal children and young people involved with the justice system
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills
• The ability to work collaboratively with legal professionals, ACCOs and government agencies
• Strong organisational and administrative skills
• Confidence using computer systems and maintaining accurate records
• An understanding of the Victorian youth justice system and Children's Court processes will be highly regarded
• Experience working within an ACCO or the not-for-profit sector is desirable

Essential requirements

• Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander person (Identified Position under Section 12)
• Certificate IV or Diploma in Youth Work, or equivalent experience (or willingness to undertake supported study)
• Current Victorian Driver Licence
• Employee Working with Children Check
• National Criminal History Check
• Australian work rights

Join a team making a genuine difference

If you're passionate about supporting Aboriginal young people, strengthening communities and contributing to a culturally safe justice system, we'd love to hear from you.

Apply today and help young people find their strong voice.