Join the Fight for Justice – Senior Criminal Youth Lawyer in Alice Springs

Location: Alice Springs, Northern Territory

Position: Senior Criminal Youth Lawyer

Full-time: 37.5 hours per week

About Us

The North Australian Aboriginal Justice Agency (NAAJA) is a national leader in delivering justice for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. With a proud legacy of award-winning work in advocacy, criminal defence, and law reform, NAAJA operates across the NT in Darwin, Palmerston, Katherine, Tennant Creek and Alice Springs. We are more than a legal service; we’re a movement for change.

Why Join NAAJA?

• Competitive salary
• Generous leave - 6 weeks annual + 17.5% loading, 3 weeks personal leave and more
• Access up to $18,550 tax free salary packaging + professional development opportunities
• Be part of a nationally recognised legal service
• Make a real impact working alongside a dynamic multidisciplinary criminal law team.

About the Role

As a Senior Criminal Youth Lawyer, you will:

• Provide high-quality legal representation to Aboriginal young people in the Youth Justice Court and Supreme Court.
• Supervise, mentor and develop junior lawyers and support staff in the Youth Justice Team.
• Manage complex caseloads with a focus on diversion, trauma-informed practice, and culturally responsive advocacy.
• Build strong relationships with stakeholders, including youth services, government agencies, and community organisations.
• Identify and address systemic justice issues, contributing to law reform and policy advocacy.
• Represent NAAJA in interagency forums and youth justice reform initiatives.
• Appear in adult summary jurisdiction matters as required.

About you

• Admission (or eligibility for admission) as a legal practitioner in the Northern Territory.
• At least 5 years’ post-admission experience in criminal law, with proven courtroom advocacy skills.
• Demonstrated experience working with young people, including trauma-informed and culturally safe practice.
• Strong leadership, supervision and mentoring skills.
• A deep commitment to social justice and reducing Aboriginal overrepresentation in the youth justice system.
• Excellent communication and cross-cultural collaboration skills.
• Willingness to travel to regional and remote communities.
• A current NT driver’s licence and ability to obtain a Working with Children Clearance (Ochre Card).

Be Part of Something Bigger

This is more than a job—it’s a career with purpose. If you want to advocate for justice, challenge injustice, and support Aboriginal communities in the NT, apply now and help us drive lasting change.

Join NAAJA and be part of a team committed to justice, advocacy and making a lasting impact.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are strongly encouraged to apply.