Justice Advocate - Sydney Metro

• Justice Advocacy Service (JAS) 
• Full time 37.5 hours per week - SCHADS Award Level 5 ($53.43–$55.85 per hour)   

First Nations voices and perspectives are valued in this role, and we strongly encourage applications from First Nations people. Up to 40% of Justice Advocacy Service (JAS) clients identify as First Nations people, and this role provides a meaningful opportunity to support their rights and access to justice. 

About the Justice Advocacy Service

Visit our website www.idrs.org.au for more information about IDRS

what you'll be doing

If you’re committed to fairness, inclusion, and supporting people through complex systems, we encourage you to apply.

Your work will include:

• Supporting people to understand and participate in police processes, court proceedings (including from gaols), outcomes and conditions, in ways that are accessible and individualised. 
• Coordinating, supporting and debriefing local volunteers and Police Station Support Workers, ensuring consistent and effective support for each person. 
• Building respectful relationships with key stakeholders including Legal Aid, First Nations Legal Services, Police, Court staff, First Nations communities to support individuals and the service. 
• Working collaboratively with families, mainstream and disability community supports to strengthen outcomes and avoid further harm or criminalisation.

what we're looking for

We are looking for someone who understands that justice is not experienced equally, who is committed to working in ways that respects diversity, community and lived experience, and has the skills to engage and support people with cognitive impairment effectively. 

You will bring: 

• Experience working with people with cognitive impairment and/or communities facing systemic disadvantage 
• A strong commitment to human rights, self-determination and supported decision making. 
• An understanding of the historical and ongoing impacts of colonisation, racism and over policing on First Nations peoples 
• The ability to advocate firmly and respectfully to achieve fair outcomes 
• Demonstrated communication skills, including the ability to explain complex information simply and clearly 
• Experience working in culturally appropriate, trauma-informed and strengths-based ways 
• Confidence working both independently and within a small, collaborative team 
• Confidence working in online systems environments, including client case management systems, attention to detail and written skills to reflect legal system requirements. 
• Prior experience working in volunteer support, disability services, the criminal legal system, or the NDIS is desirable but not essential. 

what we offer

We offer the opportunity to do meaningful work that makes a real difference in people’s lives, work that respects culture, values lived experience and challenges injustice.

You’ll receive:

• Pay under the SCHADS Award Level 5 ($53.43–$55.85 per hour) plus 12% superannuation 
• Access to Not-for-profit salary packaging, increasing your take home pay 
• Flexible working arrangements where possible, including some work-from-home options 
• 15 days personal leave each year 
• Additional Gratis leave between Christmas Day and New Years Day 
• Supportive supervision, reflective practice and debriefing opportunities to support your wellbeing 
• A culturally safe, inclusive and supportive workplace for First Nations employees
• Access to an Employee Assistance Program 

employment screening

next steps

To submit your application, please click 'Apply Now' by 9am on the closing date.

A position description is attached.