Manager - Strategic Advocacy And Policy

Job Function : Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Work Type : Ongoing - full time or part time About this role Full time ongoing position (part-time considered)Salary range : $138,909 - $162,060 (pro rata) plus super plus salary packaging Up to $15,900 in salary packaging and hybrid WFH & office model About the role Victoria Legal Aid (VLA) is seeking a strong First Nations leader to guide advocacy, reform, and community engagement efforts.
As the Manager – Strategic Advocacy and Policy, you will ensure that First Nations voices, experiences, and priorities are central to our advocacy and legal reform initiatives.
You will : Lead strategic projects that promote change, including responding to recommendations from the Yoorrook Justice Commission.
Build strong partnerships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and organizations to develop shared advocacy goals.
Provide cultural and strategic advice to shape VLA's policies, services, and reforms.
Collaborate with community to gather and share lived experience stories (with consent) to support law reform efforts.
This role offers an opportunity to support self-determination, community-led advocacy, and structural change.
This is a special measures role; only First Nations people are eligible to apply, according to the Equal Opportunity Act 2010.
The position is based at our Melbourne CBD office on Wurundjeri Country, but applications from outside Melbourne are welcomed.
About you Ideal candidates will possess : Lived experience as an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander person, with deep knowledge of community, culture, and the impacts of the legal system.
Strong relationship-building, partnership, and influencing skills.
Experience leading projects that prioritize people and culture.
Excellent communication skills, both written and spoken, with the ability to explain complex ideas clearly.
Good organizational skills and the ability to manage priorities.
A strong understanding of VLA's work or willingness to learn and align with our values.
We encourage applicants who may not meet every requirement but are passionate about the role to apply, as diverse experiences are valued.
About Victoria Legal Aid We provide legal representation to those in need, with over 1400 staff across 16 offices in Victoria, focusing on legal information, advice, and education to prevent and resolve legal issues early.
Our organization values diversity and inclusion, welcoming ideas and perspectives from all backgrounds to best serve our clients.
Employee benefits Flexible work arrangements promoting work-life balance Hybrid work-from-home and office model Training and professional development opportunities Salary packaging options, including up to $15,900 for general expenses, $2,650 for meals & entertainment, and Novated Leasing Supportive work environment with modern facilities, including a gym and end-of-trip amenities Discounted Private Health Insurance How to apply Please submit your current resume and cover letter.
For adjustments to the recruitment process or alternative application formats, contact Kristen Bell, First Nations Employment Consultant.
For more information, review the attached position description or contact Melissa Harrison, Director, First Nations Services.
No agency applications accepted.
Applications close at 11:59 pm on Monday, 25 August 2025.
Other relevant information Attendance at the office is required; interstate candidates must be willing to relocate to Victoria unless they are from a border community.
VLA prioritizes child safety and wellbeing.
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