• Salary: $75,384.40 + super + salary packaging
• Full-time, 12-months Fixed Term (strong potential for renewal)
• Preston, Melbourne VIC

Make a real difference in a role that matters

Victoria Aboriginal Legal Service (VALS) is seeking a Paralegal to join our Family Violence Service. This is an opportunity to contribute to culturally safe, specialist legal support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people experiencing complex family violence-related legal issues.

Working as part of a multidisciplinary team, you will play an important role in supporting clients to access timely legal assistance, assisting with intake and referrals, and helping coordinate legal and non-legal responses that are responsive, respectful and effective.
If you are organised, compassionate, legally minded and motivated by meaningful work, we would love to hear from you.

About VALS

Victoria Aboriginal Legal Service is an Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisation and the state's only specialist legal and support service dedicated to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. Since 1973, VALS has delivered culturally safe legal advice, representation and advocacy across criminal, family, civil and human rights law, youth justice and specialist litigation. Our Family Violence Service is a specialist, multidisciplinary practice working at the intersection of family violence, criminal law and systemic injustice. The service supports clients through complex legal matters while also connecting them to practical, cultural and community-based support.

About the role

As the Paralegal, you will be a key point of contact for people seeking assistance from the Family Violence Service. You will support intake, administration, case coordination and legal file preparation, working closely with lawyers, social workers and Aboriginal Community Engagement workers.This role is well suited to someone who thrives in a fast-paced environment, can manage sensitive information with care, and is committed to supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities through culturally safe service delivery.

Key responsibilities

In this role, you will:

• Conduct initial intake for clients seeking legal assistance, primarily by phone and in person where required
• Gather and record accurate intake notes and mandatory client information
• Support referrals, file progression and day-to-day case coordination
• Assist with preparing legal files, court documents and correspondence
• Work collaboratively with lawyers, social workers and community engagement staff
• Help facilitate warm referrals to internal and external services
• Contribute to service improvement, team planning and broader Family Violence Service activities

What we're looking for

To succeed in this role, you will bring:

• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to engage respectfully with people seeking legal support
• An understanding of, or commitment to learning about, the legal and social issues impacting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, particularly in relation to family violence
• Excellent organisation skills and the ability to manage competing priorities in a high-volume environment
• Sound written and verbal communication skills
• The ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team
• Competency in Microsoft Office 365 and confidence learning new systems

Qualifications and requirements

You will also need:

• To be enrolled in or have completed a Bachelor of Laws or equivalent qualification, or otherwise be eligible for admission as a legal practitioner in Victoria
• A current Employee Working with Children Check
• A valid Victorian Driver's Licence
• A National Criminal History Check
• Proof of working rights in Australia

Why join VALS?

At VALS, you will join a purpose-driven organisation committed to justice, cultural safety and community empowerment. This is a chance to be part of meaningful, values-led work that has a direct impact on the lives of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and communities.

Diversity and inclusion

VALS is committed to diversity, equity and inclusion. We strongly encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, people from diverse cultural backgrounds, and members of LGBTISBQ communities. We welcome requests for adjustments throughout the recruitment process to support accessibility and inclusion.

Apply now

If you are looking for a rewarding role where your work will make a genuine impact, click Apply Now.