Legal Policy and Advocacy Officer or Lawyer

The Legal Policy and Advocacy Officer Lawyer is part of the team of ALRM’s justice advocacy and law reform initiatives. Reporting to the Legal Policy and Advocacy Manager, you will contribute to the implementation of the Aboriginal Justice and Advocacy Service (AJAS) agreement, prepare submissions on policy and legislation, and advocate for systemic change to improve justice outcomes for Aboriginal people.

This role involves:

• Advocacy aligned with Closing the Gap targets (particularly ensuring Aboriginal people are not overrepresented in the criminal or youth justice systems), and key national reports.

• Drafting and presenting submissions to Parliamentary committees, law reform bodies, and government.

• Participating in a small team and coordinating ALRM’s advocacy calendar.

• Consulting with Aboriginal communities and stakeholders across SA.

• Occasional travel within South Australia (approx. 2 trips per year).

Essential skills and experience:

• Strong leadership/management experience in a legal or policy setting.

• Proven ability to research, analyse legislation, and write high-quality submissions.

• Understanding of Aboriginal justice issues, Closing the Gap priorities, and human rights frameworks.

• Excellent communication skills and ability to engage respectfully with Aboriginal communities.

• Commitment to cultural safety and self-determination.

Desirable: 

• Experience working in Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander communities or a not-for-profit organisation.

• Demonstrated experience in at least one of the following practice areas: criminal, civil, family, government or child protection law and practice and ability to learn other areas, noting many submissions relate to the criminal justice system.

• Eligible to hold a South Australian Legal Practising Certificate.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are strongly encouraged to apply.

Special Conditions

• Flexible work arrangements available (full-time or part-time).

• Some out-of-hours work and travel required.

• Police and Working with Children clearances required.

• Current Unrestricted SA Driver’s Licence.