Position:
The Refugee Advice and Casework Service (RACS) seeks a dedicated person to join its team of committed human rights lawyers as a Practical Legal Trainee (students who hold a law degree and who are undertaking a course for practical admission as a lawyer). There are multiple positions available in our Randwick office.
Responsibilities include research, drafting statements, observing and assisting with client appointments, accompanying lawyers to client meetings and DoHA interviews and various other administrative and legal tasks. You will receive on-the-job training and supervision.
You will have had previous volunteer experience and be able to demonstrate a commitment to human rights and social justice, an understanding of the issues that affect people seeking asylum, and a capacity to problem-solve. You will have administrative and organisational experience, and have the ability to communicate with a wide range of stakeholders in a confident and a respectful manner. You will also need initiative and a sense of humour.
In return, we offer you a vibrant and supportive working environment, an induction program and range of experiences in a community legal centre.
Please note these are unpaid positions.
About RACS:
RACS is an independent community legal centre with a vision of a world where people seeking asylum and refugees who seek Australia's protection are able to live their lives with dignity, security, family unity and freedom.
RACS provides free, specialist legal services for people seeking asylum and refugees. Through individual advice sessions, community education and public advocacy, RACS strives to ensure that individuals and families at risk of persecution gain access to equal and fair representation before the law.
Requirements:
You must be enrolled in, or about to enrol in the Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice at College of Law. It would be preferable if you are available to work a minimum of 3 days per week. We have a required minimum of 60 days.
RACS is committed to providing a safe, inclusive and welcoming space where people of all cultures, identities, genders, backgrounds, ages and abilities feel respected and comfortable. The more diverse RACS is, the better able we are to understand and work with our diverse clients. Everyone working for RACS, (whether in a paid, voluntary or student capacity), is expected to be inclusive of and sensitive to people from different cultures, lifestyles and experiences. Any instances of discriminatory language or behaviour from anyone at RACS will not be tolerated.
How to apply:
Please submit your application online
Applicants are encouraged to submit applications as soon as possible, as applications will be evaluated upon receipt and interviews are likely to begin prior to the closing date. For more information please telephone (02) 8355 7227 or email racsvolunteer@racs.org.au
RACS, Australia’s oldest refugee community legal centre, provides free, specialist legal services for people seeking asylum and refugees. Through individual advice sessions, community education and public advocacy, RACS strives to ensure that individuals and families, at risk of persecution or other forms of significant harm, gain access to equal and fair representation before the law, and are granted protection by Australia in accordance with Australia’s international obligations.
Our work is premised on a commitment to fundamental human rights, human dignity and international protection. RACS demonstrates this commitment through its independent, impartial and professional advice; the integrity of its staff and volunteers; its belief in continuous learning, including through partnerships with other organisations; and the fair and flexible conditions it provides for staff and volunteers.
