Baggarrook Program Officer

Overview

VALS is made up of Victoria’s most committed legal advocates, professionals and support staff who work to advance Aboriginal self-determination and the rights of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in Victoria of all ages. VALS is committed to diversity, equality and inclusion and celebrates its diverse Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, LGBTQIA+ and individuals from different cultures, language groups and experiences.

About VALS: The Victorian Aboriginal Legal Service (VALS) has been advocating for and supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people since 1973. Our holistic services span criminal, family, civil and human rights law, youth legal services, 24/7 custody notification, housing, family violence programs, and more.

About Balit Ngulu: Balit Ngulu provides Aboriginal children and young people with appropriate legal advice and representation and supports empowerment and resilience within its service areas.

Role Context and Locations

The Aboriginal Community Justice Panels (ACJP) operates 24/7, supporting Aboriginal people in custody with cultural, legal and practical assistance. Roles described include:

- Aboriginal Community Justice Panels Project Officer (Project Officer) – Preston, VIC; salary range $124,676.64–$135,000 plus 11.5% super; full-time, fixed term 12 months.
- Aboriginal Youth, Family Centred Program – various VALS locations; flexible hours, contract terms and salary ranges as listed per role.
- Custody Notification Officer (CNO) – casual/casual fractional roles in Melbourne CBD and statewide locations.

Key Responsibilities

- Support transformation and governance for Aboriginal Community Justice Panels; manage timelines, budgets and deliverables.
- Lead relationship management with external consultants, service providers and funders; produce reports and presentations for senior stakeholders/government.
- Deliver culturally safe client-focused support across child protection, youth justice and family services where applicable.
- Maintain robust risk management, governance and reporting; ensure compliance with VALS values and government standards.
- Provide court support, advocacy, and liaison with partner agencies; maintain client records and ensure data quality.
- Contribute to policy, advocacy, and continuous improvement initiatives; participate in training and professional development.

Key Selection Criteria

- Demonstrated understanding of Victorian Aboriginal communities and the legal system.
- Strong written and verbal communication; capable of engaging diverse stakeholders.
- Experience with governance, project management, and risk management.
- Ability to supervise and mentor staff and volunteers; collaborative and independent working capacity.
- MS Office proficiency and capacity to learn VALS client management systems.

Mandatory Requirements

- Current Employee Working with Children Check
- National Criminal History Police Check
- Proof of Australian work rights (passport, birth certificate, or visa)
- Current valid Australian Driver’s Licence

Additional Context: Other Roles

Content Creator (Identified Role – Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander applicants only) – part-time 0.6 FTE, Melbourne CBD with flexible working; has responsibilities for digital content across platforms, campaign development, storytelling, and analytics.

Regional Practice Lead – Gippsland/Civil/Families roles described; includes panel certification requirements and leadership of legal services across regional offices.

Custody Notification Service (CNS) and other community roles include responsibilities to liaise with Victoria Police and Aboriginal Community Justice Panels to support welfare checks, referrals and culturally safe service delivery.

Application Closing Dates frequently vary by role (e.g., 7 October 2025; 25 September 2025; 1 September 2025).

Why Join VALS

- Competitive remuneration and salary packaging; 17.5% leave loading and additional annual leave.
- Flexible work arrangements, travel opportunities, and professional development.
- Supportive, inclusive workplace with opportunities to contribute to culturally safe services for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.

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