Aboriginal Community Engagement Worker (Youth Crime)
$81,000 - $93,000 + Super + Salary Packaging
This is an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander identified role under Section 12 (Special Measures) of the Equal Opportunity Act 2010. Only Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people are eligible to apply.
* Preston, VIC
* Onsite (no hybrid or remote)
About VALS
The Victorian Aboriginal Legal Service (VALS) is an Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisation and the state's only specialist legal service for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Since 1973, VALS has provided culturally safe legal representation and holistic support across criminal, family, civil and human rights law. Beyond legal services, VALS delivers vital programs including a 24/7 Custody Notification Service, youth justice and family violence supports, transitional housing for women exiting custody, and community legal education.
About Balit Ngulu
Balit Ngulu (meaning Strong Voice in Woi Wurrung) is VALS' specialist youth program supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and young people (up to 21 years) who come into contact with the criminal legal system. Balit Ngulu provides culturally strong legal representation and wrap‑around support across Melbourne and Greater Shepparton, with a focus on self‑determination, early intervention, and keeping young people connected to family, culture, and community.
About the Role
As the Aboriginal Community Engagement Worker (ACE Worker), you will work alongside Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people to support their safety, wellbeing, and engagement with legal and community services. You will play a key role in:
* Supporting young people through court and legal processes
* Providing cultural support planning and advocacy
* Linking clients to Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations and other relevant services
* Working closely with lawyers and partner agencies to provide holistic, culturally safe support
This is a relational role suited to someone who is community‑connected, youth‑focused, and committed to justice and self‑determination.
Key Responsibilities
* Support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people to access information, services, and culturally appropriate supports
* Provide client liaison, advocacy, and warm referrals to ACCOs and other services
* Participate in case planning with lawyers and partner agencies
* Support young people in court and other legal or non‑legal proceedings
* Maintain accurate and timely client records
* Represent Balit Ngulu positively with stakeholders
* Assist with court documentation as directedSupport events, meetings, reporting, and other operational tasks as required
* Travel regionally or interstate when needed
What You'll Bring
Essential
* Lived experience in Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander community/ies, with strong understanding of issues impacting Aboriginal young people and access to justice
* Experience working with Aboriginal young people
* Strong communication and relationship‑building skills
* Ability to work respectfully and assertively in multi‑disciplinary environments (including courts, police, youth justice, child protection, ACCOs)
* Good computer and record‑keeping skills
Desirable
* Knowledge of the Victorian legal system, particularly youth justice and the Children, Youth and Families Act 2005
* Experience working in an Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisation or not‑for‑profit
* Experience supporting whole‑family and whole‑community approaches
Qualifications & Requirements
* Certificate IV or Diploma in Youth Work (or equivalent experience). Support available to undertake further study if required
* Current Employee Working with Children Check
* Valid Victorian Driver's Licence
* National Criminal History Check
* Full Australian work rights
Why Join Us?
* 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
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