About Us:
Founded in 2001, the Asylum Seeker Resource Centre (ASRC) is Australia’s largest human rights organisation providing support to people seeking asylum. We are an independent not-for-profit organisation whose programs support and empower people seeking asylum to maximise their own physical, mental and social well being. We champion the rights of people seeking asylum and mobilise a community of compassion to create lasting social and policy change.
We are a values-driven organisation that strives to be part of a change movement that supports people seeking asylum by providing critical services such as assistance with accommodation, food, medical and legal services.
The ASRC movement is proudly supported by a community of committed volunteers and supporters who embrace the organisation’s vision that people seeking asylum can live safely, sustainably, independently and equally.
About the Role: (Full-Time, Fixed-Term, 4 Months)
As a Senior Solicitor in our Human Rights Law Program, you will lead a team of solicitors, volunteers, and students to provide vital legal support to people seeking asylum. You will play a key role in case management, strategic litigation, and advocacy, ensuring high-quality legal representation at all stages of the refugee determination process. Additionally, you'll contribute to systemic change through law reform initiatives, policy development, and community legal education. This is an opportunity to make a significant impact in the lives of those seeking refuge, while leading a team dedicated to access to justice.
Key Accountabilities:
- Work with the Principal Solicitor & Deputy Principal Solicitor to make case intake and allocation decisions in line with program eligibility criteria and capacity.
- Supervise and mentor a small team of solicitors, ensuring compliance with professional obligations, internal policies, and procedures.
- Oversee access to justice services, including clinics, triage, duty service, and support from volunteers and Practical Legal Training students.
- Provide high-quality representation in complex legal matters, including protection visa cancellation and judicial review cases.
- Lead and engage in systemic change work, such as strategic litigation, advocacy, policy development, and community legal education.
- Represent the program in external and internal meetings and forums as needed.
- Contribute to tracking program progress and monitoring and evaluation frameworks.
- Deliver internal training for lawyers and volunteers, ensuring the team is equipped to advise and represent clients effectively.
- Support ASRC’s strategic initiatives, planning, and projects as required.
- Collaborate with other ASRC programs to enhance client experience and ensure seamless, effective service delivery.
- Uphold occupational health and safety standards, ensuring a safe and supportive work environment.
- Actively contribute to ASRC’s vision, values, and commitment to a culturally safe and inclusive workplace.
About You:
- Solicitor with current unrestricted legal practising certificate (or eligible to obtain registration).
- Minimum of four years post-admission experience in migration law.
- Proven experience in management and supervisory roles.
- Excellent analytical, writing, and communication skills.
- Strong time management abilities with demonstrated capability to prioritize tasks and resources effectively.
- Ability to lead and work collaboratively within a team of solicitors, students, and volunteers.
- Competence in advocacy before administrative decision-makers and courts.
- Cultural competency and experience working with individuals from diverse backgrounds.
- Experience in a Community Legal Centre environment, with knowledge of NACLC risk management guidelines and audit procedures.
Employee Benefits:
Joining the ASRC means being a part of the largest human rights organisation in Australia, supporting refugees and people seeking asylum. We recognise and appreciate our incredible staff for their contribution, dedication and passion to support and empower people seeking asylum by providing the following conditions above the relevant modern award:
- We do have a 60% in-office approach to building our team cohesion.
- Annual Leave Loading of 17.5%
- Additional discretionary leave provisions including:
- Leave for Cultural or Religiously Significant Events
- Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander Leave
- Leave for Staff Seeking Asylum
- Gender Affirmation Leave
- Regular community lunch
- Free onsite car and bicycle parking
- Salary packaging (up to $15,900 per year tax free)
- Entertainment Packaging (up to $2,650 per year tax free)
- Discounts via HR systems provider at grocery and retail outlets
- Close proximity to public transport (100 metres from Footscray station and buses)
Position Description
Application Process
Only applications that include a CV and cover letter addressing the Selection Criteria, will be considered. If your application does not include a cover letter it will not be considered.
Applications close Monday 14 September at 11:59pm.
Shortlisting for this position will commence immediately, and the position may close earlier than stated if we have found suitable candidates.
All offers of employment are subject to a satisfactory Criminal History Check and provision of a valid Working with Children Check prior to commencement.
Our Commitment to You: ASRC Candidate Care Statement
At the Asylum Seeker Resource Centre, we believe in recruiting through the lens of our core values, ensuring every interaction and decision reflects the principles that define our culture.
What you can expect from our process:
- Welcome: We champion inclusion and encourage applications from all backgrounds, especially those with lived experience of seeking asylum. Please tell us if you need any accessibility adjustments.
- Authentic: We commit to a transparent and fair process, providing clear timelines and constructive feedback if you are interviewed.
- Courageous: We make objective hiring decisions based purely on merit and mission alignment, ensuring fairness and equity for every candidate.
- Collaborative: We value your time. We commit to timely, respectful communication and keeping you informed about the status of your application.
Thank you for your interest in joining the ASRC. We look forward to connecting with you. 