Paralegal Support Worker (Prison Support Program)
Djirra, Australia
Job Description
Djirra is an Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisation (ACCO) that works towards a future where all Aboriginal women are strong, safe, independent, healthy and positive in their lives, culture and communities. All Djirra’s work is designed by and for Aboriginal women and is deeply respectful of and connected to community. Self-determination is the foundation of everything we do: it is Our Cultural Way.
The Aboriginal Family Violence Legal Service (AFVLS) is a program of Djirra and an opportunity has now arisen for a dedicated Paralegal Support Worker to work in the Prison Support Program. You will provide support to clients who are incarcerated at, or have been recently released from the Dame Phyllis Frost Correctional Centre to address their various and complex legal and support needs.
Requirements
- Provide support to clients at the Dame Phyllis Frost Correctional Centre
- Develop and maintain relationships with a broad range of stakeholders including Dame Phyllis Frost Correctional Centre staff, Aboriginal cooperatives, Aboriginal Health Services, family and children's services to name a few
- Provide support at court and tribunal hearings
- Assist with applications for intervention orders
- Meet with local Aboriginal organisations and service providers to establish working relationships
- Participate in our community legal education activities
- Undertake legal administration tasks, including reception duties, client intake, and assisting the Senior Lawyer with day-to-day management of client files
- Provide general office duties.
While you are not required to have a legal background, you will gain an understanding of legal processes through your work with the legal team.
This position is permanent and based in Melbourne but will require regular travel/outreach to and from the prison. A current drivers licence is essential for this role.
WE'RE LOOKING FOR SOMEONE WHO:
- Has had experience or the capacity to gain experience in the provision of case management/support in the area of family violence/sexual assault or other crisis response, including knowledge of relevant service providers.
- Is proficient in MS Office products and other computer packages/databases.eg (CLASS)
- Ability to prioritise and meeting competing demands with conflicting and critical deadlines
- Able to prepare clear, concise and well-presented written material
- Has the ability to effectively communicate and work with local Aboriginal communities and has knowledge of social justice issues within Aboriginal communities
- Has the demonstrated capacity to communicate emphatically and effectively with Aboriginal people and/or others who have experienced trauma
Benefits
- Office is conveniently located near public transport, ample parking and nearby some great coffee shops, cafes and restaurants.
- Cultural Awareness training and ongoing support provided by our dedicated full-time Cultural Advisor.
- Access to Christmas leave, Cultural leave, paid Parental leave and annual leave loading.
- Generous salary packaging options available.
HOW TO APPLY
To find out more about the position (including a full copy of the Position Description) and how to apply, refer to our Get Involved page on our website www.djirra.org.au Only applications received via the website will be considered. Applications must include a CV and covering letter and all applicants must answer the questions at the bottom of the application form.
If you would like to know more about the role or about the work we do, please call Teresa Kyprianou, Human Resources Advisor on 9244 3333 or via email
Applications for this position will close upon appointment of the successful candidate. We strongly encourage Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander applicants to apply.