Job description
About the organisation
Are you an early career lawyer looking to build your legal career while making a meaningful difference in the community?
We are seeking either identified candidates or candidates who can demonstrate a deep understanding of, and respect for, the cultural considerations involved in working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and communities.
An exciting opportunity has become available for a Lawyer with 1–3 years' post admission experience to join a leading national law firm and undertake a unique secondment with a respected community legal service.
This role offers the rare opportunity to work within a First Nations led program dedicated to advancing human rights, improving access to justice and supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities across Canberra and the surrounding region. You will gain hands on experience working on meaningful legal matters while contributing to
About the roleWorking alongside experienced legal practitioners in a supportive and collaborative environment, you will provide legal assistance, advocacy and representation across a range of matters, including:
- Social housing and tenancy disputes
- Social security and Centrelink matters
- Race discrimination complaints and advocacy
- Legal research and drafting
- Tribunal representation
- Community legal education and outreach activities
- Stakeholder engagement with community organisations and government agencies
- Law reform and policy initiatives
This role offers a diverse and rewarding workload, combining direct client work with broader advocacy initiatives designed to address systemic barriers and improve access to justice.
What You'll Need to Succeed
To be successful in this role, you will have:
- Admission as an Australian legal practitioner with 1–3 years' post admission experience
- A genuine commitment to social justice, human rights and access to justice
- An understanding of the issues affecting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and communities
- Strong legal research, analytical and problem solving skills
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Strong organisational, file management and time management capabilities
- The ability to build effective relationships with clients, stakeholders and community groups
- A collaborative approach and the ability to work effectively within a team environment
- Strong IT skills, including proficiency with Microsoft Office and legal case management systems
- Eligibility to hold a practising certificate in the ACT
Desirable Experience
- Previous experience working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander clients and communities
- Experience within a community legal centre, legal aid service or public interest law setting
- Experience working in a community based environment
What You'll Get in Return
This is an exceptional opportunity to develop your legal career while working in a role with genuine purpose.
You will benefit from:
- Exposure to specialist areas of law including housing, social security and discrimination
- Hands on advocacy and representation experience
- Mentoring from experienced practitioners
- The opportunity to contribute to meaningful social justice outcomes
- Professional development and ongoing learning opportunities
- A collaborative and values driven workplace culture
- The chance to make a tangible difference to individuals and communities across the ACT
Applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are strongly encouraged.
What You Need to Do Now
If you're looking for a role that offers both professional growth and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact, we'd love to hear from you.
Apply now or contact Madeleine Ellacott at Hays Legal Canberra for a confidential discussion.
LHS 297508 #3005987 - Madeleine Ellacott
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