Job: 1046807 | Full-Time | Permanent | Canberra, ACT

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 Justice Support Programs ACT, which is part of the Criminal Law Practice. This role supports Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander clients with intellectual and/or physical disabilities involved in the Justice Support Programs (ACT), aiming to reduce reoffending and keep them out of the criminal justice system. It involves close collaboration with internal team members and external stakeholders, including government agencies, support services, and local Aboriginal communities. You will:

• Provide clear, accessible information to help individuals navigate the criminal justice system and understand their rights, options, and potential outcomes.
• Support individuals in prioritising their safety and wellbeing and assist in self-advocacy or advocate on their behalf when needed.
• Help individuals access essential services such as the NDIS, Centrelink, disability supports, and appropriate housing.
• Promote client-focused service delivery by engaging positively and carry out other duties as required.
• Maintain accurate records and data entry for reporting purposes and carry out other duties as required.
• Uphold ALS policies, including EEO and WHS, and consistently demonstrate values and conduct aligned with the ALS Code of Conduct

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:

• Holds a relevant qualification in social work, community services, or related field, with experience supporting clients with disabilities and in areas like child protection, advocacy, or family support.
• Experience working with Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander communities and organisations, with strong cultural knowledge and local community connections.
• Demonstrated ability to provide culturally safe and trauma-informed support to children and families.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to maintain professional boundaries.
• Computer literate, adaptable to change, and comfortable working in a start-up environment.
• Unrestricted ACT driver’s licence with the ability to travel intrastate and carry passengers.
• Identifying as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander and having legal practice experience are desirable.

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]