This is an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander designated position, classified under Section 12 Special Measures of the Equal Opportunity Act 2010.

Please note: This opportunity is only available to Australian Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people.

Location: Preston VIC
Employment Type: Full-Time | Fixed Term (with potential to become ongoing)
Organisation: Victorian Aboriginal Legal Service (VALS)

Salary: $81,135.60 – $87,305.40 + Super + Salary Packaging

About VALS

The Victorian Aboriginal Legal Service (VALS) is an Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisation (ACCO) and the state’s only specialist legal and support service dedicated to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. Established in 1973, VALS provides culturally safe legal advice and representation across criminal, family, civil, and human rights law, youth justice, and specialist litigation.

About the Role

The Client Service Officer (CSO) is the key cultural interface between Aboriginal Community members, VALS lawyers and the court system. Working within the Family Practice, the CSO supports clients to participate in child protection, family violence and family law processes by breaking down cultural barriers and helping clients engage meaningfully in the legal system.

This role involves assessing client needs, providing short-term intensive support, and delivering warm referrals to culturally appropriate services. As part of a multi-disciplinary team, the CSO works alongside lawyers, paralegals, administrative staff and community organisations to achieve strong outcomes for clients.

Key Responsibilities

Provide case work support to clients, including risk and needs assessments

Attend Magistrates, Children’s and Family Courts to support client participation

Provide transport assistance, welfare checks, advocacy and referrals to support agencies

Help clients understand legal processes and terminology in a culturally safe way

Maintain strong community engagement and referral partnerships

Liaise with courts, government and community stakeholders to support client outcomes

Represent VALS at regional forums, meetings and community networks

Maintain accurate case notes and reports in the VALS client database

Contribute to cultural safety, team collaboration and VALS values

About You

Certificate, diploma or degree in community services, social work or related field OR relevant experience with willingness to undertake further study supported by VALS

Knowledge of the Victorian legal system

Understanding of legal issues affecting Aboriginal communities

Strong connection to and experience engaging with the Aboriginal community

Strong communication and interpersonal skills

Ability to manage competing priorities and work independently and in a tea

Proficient with Microsoft Office and client record systems

What We Offer

17.5% Leave Loading

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

Generous salary packaging up to $15,900 via Maxxia

Opportunity to work alongside a passionate, culturally committed team

Ongoing professional development and training opportunities

A supportive, inclusive, and culturally safe workplace environment

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 (please note: 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 Client Service Officer (Family Practice) at VALS’

VALS actively encourages and supports Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people to apply. This designated position provides a culturally safe, supportive, and inclusive environment where your knowledge and lived experience are highly valued.

Please note: We do not accept unsolicited resumes from employment agencies. No fees will be paid to agencies submitting candidates without a valid written agreement.