At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and mentor a team to provide legal support for Aboriginal youth in the justice system.
- Company: Join the Victorian Aboriginal Legal Service, dedicated to culturally safe legal services.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, superannuation, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace that values diversity and community engagement.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people.
- Qualifications: Experience in criminal law and youth justice advocacy required.
The predicted salary is between 116000 - 119000 £ per year.
Use your advocacy and leadership to help keep Aboriginal children and young people out of the justice system—and strengthen a growing, culturally safe youth crime practice at the Victorian Aboriginal Legal Service (VALS).
Salary: $116,000 - 119,000 + super + salary packaging
Location: Preston, VIC
Employment Type: Full time, 12-month fixed term
The opportunity
As Deputy Managing Lawyer (Youth Crime) in Balit Ngulu ("Strong Voice"), you will play a key leadership role supporting the Managing Lawyer and Principal Managing Lawyer to deliver outstanding, trauma-informed legal services for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people (up to 21). You will supervise and mentor lawyers, help drive consistent practice standards, and carry a reduced but strategic caseload that includes complex youth crime matters.
About VALS
Victoria Aboriginal Legal Service (VALS) is an Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisation established in 1973, providing culturally safe legal services and wrap‑around supports across criminal, family, civil and human rights law, youth justice and specialist litigation. The organisation also offers programs including 24/7 Custody Notification Service, transitional housing and community legal education. VALS is committed to diversity, equity and inclusion and strongly encourages applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, LGBTISBQ communities, and people from diverse cultural backgrounds. Adjustments and reasonable accommodations are welcomed throughout recruitment and employment.
About Balit Ngulu
Balit Ngulu is VALS’ specialist youth program created to ensure Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and young people can access holistic, culturally safe and specialised legal assistance. The program operates across Melbourne and Greater Shepparton and includes legal services and wrap‑around support in partnership with an Aboriginal Community Engagement (ACE) Worker.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide high-quality advice and representation in youth crime matters, including complex casework.
- Appear regularly in the Children’s Court, Magistrates’ Court and other relevant jurisdictions (including duty lawyer services).
- Provide day‑to‑day supervision, mentoring and coaching to lawyers (review of advice, pleadings and court strategy).
- Support practice quality, workload management, reflective practice and continuous improvement.
- Work collaboratively with the ACE Worker and other VALS programs to support wrap‑around outcomes.
- Build strong relationships with courts, ACCOs, youth services and key stakeholders.
- Contribute to community legal education, advocacy and law reform initiatives.
What You’ll Bring
- Strong criminal law and youth justice advocacy experience (Children’s Court, Magistrates’ Court, Koori Court and, where relevant, higher jurisdictions).
- Demonstrated ability to supervise, mentor and develop lawyers in a busy practice.
- Sound practice management and operational capability.
- A culturally safe, trauma‑informed approach and ability to work effectively with young people experiencing disadvantage.
- Experience working with Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander communities (or a strong commitment to building this capability).
- Collaborative mindset and commitment to a positive, inclusive workplace.
Mandatory Requirements
- Current, unrestricted Victorian Practising Certificate (advanced post‑admission experience required).
- Employee Working with Children Check.
- Victorian Driver Licence.
- National Criminal History Check.
- Evidence of Australian work rights.
Deputy Managing Lawyer in Preston employer: Victorian Aboriginal Legal Service
The Victorian Aboriginal Legal Service (VALS) is an exceptional employer dedicated to fostering a culturally safe and inclusive work environment, particularly for those passionate about advocating for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth. With a strong commitment to employee growth, VALS offers mentorship opportunities and encourages professional development within a supportive team that values diversity and collaboration. Located in Preston, VIC, VALS not only provides competitive salaries and benefits but also the chance to make a meaningful impact in the community through trauma-informed legal services.
Contact Details:
Victorian Aboriginal Legal Service Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Deputy Managing Lawyer in Preston
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the legal field, especially those involved with youth crime or Aboriginal legal services. Attend events, join relevant groups, and don’t be shy about asking for introductions.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching VALS and their initiatives. Understand their approach to culturally safe legal services and think about how your experience aligns with their mission. This will help you stand out as a candidate who truly gets it.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills! Be ready to discuss your mentoring experiences and how you've supported others in a legal setting. Highlighting your ability to foster a positive, inclusive workplace will resonate well with VALS.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Deputy Managing Lawyer in Preston
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:Let us see your enthusiasm for working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people. Share any relevant experiences or insights that highlight your commitment to culturally safe practices and youth advocacy.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to reflect the specific requirements of the Deputy Managing Lawyer role. Highlight your experience in criminal law and youth justice, and how it aligns with our mission at VALS.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your writing straightforward and to the point. Use clear language to describe your skills and experiences, making it easy for us to see why you’re a great fit for the team.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity at VALS.
How to prepare for a job interview at Victorian Aboriginal Legal Service
✨Know Your Advocacy Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in the principles of advocacy, especially as they relate to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. Be prepared to discuss your past experiences in youth crime cases and how you've effectively represented clients in similar situations.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Deputy Managing Lawyer, you'll be expected to mentor and supervise other lawyers. Think of specific examples where you've successfully led a team or improved practice standards. Highlight your approach to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment.
✨Demonstrate Cultural Competence
Understanding the cultural context is crucial for this role. Be ready to talk about your experience working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, and how you plan to ensure culturally safe legal services. This will show your commitment to the values of VALS.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills in complex youth crime matters. Prepare by thinking through potential scenarios you might face in the role and how you would handle them, particularly in a trauma-informed manner.
