At a Glance
- Tasks: Support Aboriginal clients in navigating the justice system and completing community-based orders.
- Company: Victorian Aboriginal Legal Service, a proud Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous leave, salary packaging, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Join a passionate team in a supportive, culturally safe workplace.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in community justice and support Aboriginal people in need.
- Qualifications: Experience in case management or community services, with strong understanding of Aboriginal culture.
The predicted salary is between 81135 - 87305 £ per year.
Preston, VIC (this position is also available at Morwell, Werribee, Mildura)
$81,135 - $87,305 (dependant on experience)
Hybrid (1 day WFH)
Make a Real Difference in Community Justice
The Victorian Aboriginal Legal Service (VALS) is a proud Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisation providing culturally safe legal and wrap‑around support to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people across Victoria.
We are seeking Local Justice Workers to join our Community Justice Programs team and support Aboriginal people navigating the justice system - helping them complete community‑based orders, resolve fines and warrants, and successfully transition back into community.
This is a hands‑on, community‑facing role for someone who is passionate about justice reinvestment, early intervention, and culturally safe support.
About the Role
As a Local Justice Worker, you will provide practical, strengths‑based and culturally safe support to Aboriginal clients involved with the justice system. Working closely with Community Corrections, Courts, Police, custodial facilities and Aboriginal organisations, you will help reduce barriers, strengthen engagement, and improve justice outcomes.
This role is ideal for someone with experience in case management, community services, justice, youth work, or social support, who thrives in outreach and relationship‑based work.
Key Responsibilities
- Support Aboriginal clients to successfully complete Community Correction Orders (CCOs) and parole conditions
- Assist clients with court matters, fines, warrants, and justice obligations
- Provide post‑release and reintegration support for people transitioning from custody
- Identify, establish and oversee community work placements and supervise mandated community work
- Develop referrals and provide wrap‑around support across health, housing, family and community services
- Work collaboratively with Community Corrections, Courts, Police, Sheriff's Office and ACCOs
- Facilitate culturally informed planning, including Yawal Mugadjina Cultural Journey Plans
- Deliver community education on justice systems and obligations
- Maintain accurate, confidential case notes, records and reports
What We’re Looking For
- Strong understanding of Aboriginal culture and commitment to culturally safe practice
- Experience supporting people with complex needs, particularly in justice, community services or social support settings
- Knowledge of the justice system and the challenges facing Aboriginal people within it
- Ability to build trusting relationships with clients, families and stakeholders
- Strong communication, organisation and case management skills
- Confidence working collaboratively across multiple agencies and services
- Resilience and professionalism when responding to complex or crisis situations
Desirable (but not essential)
- Experience working in an Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisation (ACCO)
- Knowledge of local Aboriginal services and community networks
Mandatory Requirements
- Current Employee Working With Children Check
- Victorian Driver's Licence
- National Criminal History Check
- Eligibility to work in Australia
- Certificate IV or Diploma in Community Services (desirable)
Why join VALS?
- 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
VALS is committed to diversity, equity and inclusion. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, people from diverse cultural backgrounds, and LGBTQIA+ applicants are strongly encouraged to apply. We welcome requests for reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process.
Local Justice Worker - Preston employer: Victorian Aboriginal Legal Service
Contact Detail:
Victorian Aboriginal Legal Service Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Local Justice Worker - Preston
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the community justice field, attend local events, and connect with organisations that align with your passion for justice reinvestment. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, highlight your experience in case management and community services. Share specific examples of how you've made a difference in people's lives – it’ll make you stand out!
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! Don’t just wait for job postings to pop up. Reach out directly to organisations like VALS and express your interest in working with them. A friendly email or call can go a long way in making a memorable impression.
✨Tip Number 4
Keep learning! Stay updated on the latest trends and challenges in the justice system, especially those affecting Aboriginal communities. This knowledge will not only boost your confidence but also show employers that you're committed to making a real difference.
We think you need these skills to ace Local Justice Worker - Preston
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your passion for community justice shine through! We want to see how much you care about supporting Aboriginal people and making a real difference in their lives.
Tailor Your Experience: Make sure to highlight your relevant experience in case management or community services. We’re looking for specific examples that demonstrate your skills and understanding of the justice system, so don’t hold back!
Be Culturally Aware: Since this role is all about providing culturally safe support, it’s crucial to show your understanding of Aboriginal culture. Share any experiences or insights that reflect your commitment to culturally informed practices.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us quickly and efficiently. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need to make your application stand out!
How to prepare for a job interview at Victorian Aboriginal Legal Service
✨Know Your Community
Familiarise yourself with the local Aboriginal culture and community services. Understanding the specific challenges faced by Aboriginal people in the justice system will show your commitment to culturally safe practice, which is crucial for this role.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Be ready to discuss your previous experience in case management or community services. Prepare examples of how you've supported individuals with complex needs, particularly in justice or social support settings, to demonstrate your capability.
✨Build Trusting Relationships
Highlight your ability to build rapport with clients and stakeholders. Think of instances where you successfully engaged with diverse groups, as this role requires strong relationship-building skills to effectively support Aboriginal clients.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills in crisis situations. Prepare to discuss how you would handle specific scenarios related to community corrections or reintegration support, showcasing your resilience and professionalism.