Victorian Aboriginal Legal Service (VALS) Location: Preston, VIC | Full-Time | Fixed Term until 30 June 2026 Salary: $81,135.60 – 87,305.40 Super Salary Packaging 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 much more. At VALS, we are committed to self-determination, equality, diversity, and inclusion and we are always evolving to meet community needs. About the Role: Baggarrook Program Officer The Baggarrook Women’s Transitional Housing Program provides holistic, culturally safe support to Aboriginal women as they transition from prison back into the community. The program incorporates six transitional houses and tailored post-release support, delivered in partnership with Aboriginal Housing Victoria (AHV). As a Baggarrook Program Officer , you will work 1:1 with participants , supporting them to achieve their goals, secure long-term housing, and build independence. This role is all about building trust, empowering women, and connecting them to the services and supports they need for a strong future. Key Responsibilities Build strong, respectful, and supportive relationships with participants. Provide 1:1 case management support for up to 12 months, including transport and attending appointments to build confidence and independence. Undertake and monitor risk assessments for both the program and individual clients. Make referrals and connect participants with culturally safe and appropriate services, including health, housing, family violence, drug and alcohol, and community programs. Liaise with prison staff around assessments and referrals into the program. Keep accurate records in line with VALS client management policies and procedures. Strengthen relationships between the local Koori community and service providers. Attend staff, partner, and community meetings, and actively engage in networking with Aboriginal and mainstream organisations. Complete quarterly reports for the Department of Justice and Community Safety. Key Selection Criteria Essential: Strong relationship-building skills, particularly with people who have experienced trauma, alcohol and drug use, or disability. Experience working 1:1 with service users, ideally with complex needs. Knowledge of the Victorian legal system and the issues impacting Aboriginal communities. Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills. Ability to thrive in a multi-skilled, team-based environment. Sound computer literacy. Demonstrated experience and/or qualifications in case management. Experience in the not-for-profit sector, ideally with an Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisation. Mandatory Requirements Current Employee Working with Children Check. National Criminal History Police Check. Proof of full COVID-19 vaccination (or valid medical exemption). Proof of Australian work rights. Current valid Victorian Driver’s Licence. Why Join VALS? We offer a supportive, flexible, and culturally safe working environment with a range of attractive benefits, including: Additional Leave : 25 days annual leave (20 standard 5 extra) 17.5% leave loading. Flexibility : TOIL system for hours worked beyond your contract. Practical Support : Access to company vehicles for work-related travel. Salary Packaging : Up to $15,900 via Maxxia. Growth : Ongoing professional development and training. Culture : Work in a culturally safe and inclusive environment where lived experience is valued. 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 vals.org.au using the subject line: ‘Application for Baggarrook Program Officer Position 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.
