Job: 1022440 | Full-Time | Permanent | Kempsey, NSW

Please note that due to the criticality of this role to our organisation, we will move at a pace through our recruitment process. Interested candidates are encouraged to apply ASAP. The role will close when an offer is accepted by a suitable candidate.

The Aboriginal Legal Service (ALS) was established in a critical act of self-determination over 50 years ago as part of the Aboriginal rights protest movement. We provide high-quality, culturally safe legal and support services for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people throughout NSW and the ACT, and fight for social justice and equity for our communities.

What Will You Do?
In this role, you will be an integral and valued member of a highly skilled and high-performing Custody Notification Service (CNS) team within the Criminal Law Practice. The CNS team, provides 24-hour legal advice and support over the phone to Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people in police custody. The role includes assessing wellbeing risks, notifying families or support staff, liaising with police, and maintaining detailed records.

• Provide 24/7 legal advice to Aboriginal people in custody via the CNS phone line, including completing records and referrals.
• Liaise with families, police, and the Managing Solicitor to ensure appropriate support and legal action.
• Assist with local Criminal Law matters, including court appearances and client representation when required.
• Maintain an up-to-date knowledge of relevant criminal law legislation, case law and court procedures.
• Develop and maintain stable, productive, professional, and collaborative intra-office working relationships between all staff members.

Who Are We Looking For?
A highly skilled and motivated individual with a thorough understanding of the cultural, social, and historical needs of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. You will be able to demonstrate:

• Hold a legal qualification and a NSW Practising Certificate (or be immediately eligible to obtain one).
• Strong knowledge of Criminal Law, court procedures, and issues impacting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
• Proven ability to deliver high-quality legal advice, advocacy, and support to Aboriginal clients in custody.
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to manage client information, meet deadlines, and work independently.
• Commitment to ethical conduct, workplace safety, and diversity and inclusion practices.
• Deep understanding and respect for Aboriginal cultural and social needs in client and community engagement.

Why Join Us?
At ALS, you can discover a fulfilling career that truly makes an impact in the community. We also offer our staff a range of generous benefits including:

• Not-for-profit salary packaging to reduce your tax burden, which means you get to keep more of your hard-earned money in your pocket
• Annual leave loading of 17.5%, ensuring that you are rewarded for your time off and can enjoy a well-deserved break.
• Career and professional development opportunities

At ALS, we are committed to upholding the highest standards of safe recruitment practices. Therefore, it is essential that candidates either possess or have the capacity to obtain a current and valid Working with Children (NSW) or Working with Vulnerable People (ACT) check for this role.

We are focused to providing equal opportunities to all candidates. If you identify as a person with a disability and need any adjustments or support with your application including throughout the recruitment process, please let us know by reaching out to our Talent Team at [email protected]