Location: Preston, VIC | Full-Time | 12-Month Fixed-Term (with possible extension)
Salary: $95,000 – $105,000 + Super + Salary Packaging
Applications close on July 31st 2025

About VALS

The Victorian Aboriginal Legal Service (VALS) has been advocating for and supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people since 1973. Our holistic services span criminal, family, civil and human rights law, youth legal services, 24/7 custody notification, housing, family violence programs, and much more. At VALS, we are committed to self-determination, equality, diversity, and inclusion and we are always evolving to meet community needs.

About the Role: Aboriginal Justice Caucus Senior Policy Officer

This role sits within the Secretariat for the Aboriginal Justice Caucus (AJC), under the leadership of the AJC Executive Officer and auspiced by VALS. The Aboriginal Justice Caucus provides leadership, advocacy and drives continuous change to address the drivers of offending and to reform the criminal legal system.

As Senior Policy Officer, you will:

Provide high-quality secretariat and administrative support to the Caucus and RAJACs.

Contribute to the development of strategic policies, research, position papers and advocacy strategies aligned with the AJC's priorities.

Draft funding submissions and coordinate communication strategies.

Engage regularly with stakeholders, including DJCS and community members.

Support a culturally safe and collaborative workplace in alignment with VALS’ values.

This role requires travel across Victoria and occasionally interstate. A valid driver's licence is essential.

Key Responsibilities

Prepare meeting papers, notes, briefs and coordinate member attendance.

Contribute to Caucus workplans and regular reporting.

Draft policy and advocacy papers, submissions and research papers.

Develop and implement communication strategies.

Support community engagement and representation at stakeholder forums.

Assist in mentoring and internal team development at VALS where required.

Key Selection Criteria

Essential:

Sound knowledge of the Aboriginal Justice Caucus and the Aboriginal Justice Agreement.

Understanding of the Royal Commission into Aboriginal Deaths in Custody and legal system reform.

Cultural capability to work respectfully with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Strong policy development, research and advocacy skills.

Secretariat and project management experience in a complex environment.

Stakeholder engagement and relationship-building skills.

High-level organisational, administrative, and time management skills.

Strong Microsoft Office proficiency and digital literacy.

Desirable:

Tertiary qualifications in Law, Politics, Communications, or related fields.

Experience working within an ACCO or not-for-profit policy setting.

Mandatory Requirements

The successful applicant must be able to provide or be willing to obtain:

Current Employee Working with Children Check

National Criminal History Police Check

COVID-19 proof of vaccination or valid medical exemption

Proof of Australian work rights (e.g., passport, birth certificate, or visa)

Current valid Victorian Driver’s Licence

Why Join VALS?

We offer a supportive, flexible, and culturally safe working environment with a range of attractive benefits, including:

17.5% Leave Loading

5 additional days of annual leave on top of the standard 20 days

TOIL system for any hours worked beyond contracted time

Access to company vehicles for work-related travel

Generous salary packaging up to $15,900 via Maxxia

Opportunity to work alongside a passionate team delivering culturally appropriate services

Ongoing professional development and training opportunities

How to Apply

To apply, please provide:

A covering letter introducing yourself and explaining your suitability for the role

A statement addressing each of the Key Selection Criteria (applications without this will not be considered)

Your current resume, including education, professional experience, and two referees

Submit your application to [email protected] using the subject line:
‘Application for Aboriginal Justice Caucus Senior Policy Officer Position’