Tenancy Lawyer

ABOUT THE AGENCY

Daydawn Advocacy Centre is an outreach agency of the Catholic Archdiocese of Perth which seeks to assist Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples and advocate on their behalf. Services include provision of legal and social advocacy services for the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples.

ABOUT THE ROLE - A SNAPSHOT

• Make a difference directly to those in need
• Join a small team of 5 based in Aberdeen Street, Perth
• 3.5 days additional paid leave over Christmas

WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT TO DO

The Tenancy Lawyer assists by providing legal advice, advocacy and representation for Daydawn clients, particularly in relation to tenancy matters. They assist the Director in ensuring that the office is a safe, welcoming and trusting environment for clients at all times. The Tenancy Lawyer supports the Director in their role and assists them to coordinate the Tenancy Advocate Assistants and volunteers. The Tenancy Lawyer works closely with and guides the Tenancy Advocate Assistants in the legal-related tasks to provide tenancy services to clients. This position requires a positive and flexible approach and the ability to work as part of a team. 

Key responsibilities include but are not limited to:

Tenancy Services

• Provide legal advice, advocacy and representation in relation to tenancy matters, including representing clients in the Magistrates Court in applications for termination of their tenancy 
• Assist in preparing both internal and external reports 
• Maintain client records and databases as required 
• Assist volunteers as and when required 
• Participate in team meetings, planning and review activities 
• Implement policies and procedures and act in accordance with agency values 
• Carry out other duties, consistent with the role as required by the Director

Administration Duties

• Be responsible for the day-to-day general office duties, including the opening and shutdown routines
• Answer incoming telephone calls, direct calls and take messages for staff 
• Receive and welcome clients     
• Conduct a preliminary assessment of the client’s needs
• Maintain agency statistics and client files as requested by the Director
• Ensure the premises are kept clean and orderly
• Complete any other duties as requested by the Director

WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR

Experience, Skills and Knowledge

Essential:

• Must hold an unrestricted legal Australian Practising Certificate
• A willingness and capacity to support the Catholic ethos
• Knowledge of the Residential Tenancies Act WA (1987)
• Understanding of the type of issues faced by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples 
• Recognise Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples values within a spiritual context
• Strong networking and negotiation skills
• Ability to facilitate legal support for clients   
• Maintain a high level of confidentiality   
• Well-developed organisation skills 
• Advanced interpersonal/customer service skills 
• Well-developed written and verbal communication skills 
• Intermediate level skills in the Microsoft Office Suite (particularly Word and Outlook) 
• Good attention to detail     
• Ability to follow directions
• Capacity to accept constructive feedback in a professional manner
• National Police Clearance

Desirable:

• Civil Magistrates Court trial experience including experience in examination in chief and cross-examination 
• Ability to negotiate outcomes in the best interests of clients
• Experience working in a Catholic organisation
• Experience working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples 
• Understanding of the histories and perspectives of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples 
• A working knowledge of the policies and procedures used by the Department of Communities, Housing and Child Protection
• A basic understanding of criminal law procedure in WA
• A broad knowledge of support services available to vulnerable clients in WA

Personal qualities:

• Strong work ethic
• Displays a service mindset
• Respects boundaries and practises self-care
• Ability to handle challenging situations in an appropriate manner and according to organisational guidelines

If successful in securing the position, the applicant must provide a valid National Police Clearance, and proof of Right to Work in Australia.

BENEFITS

• Be part of a small, supportive team dedicated to making a difference
• 3.5 days additional paid leave over Christmas

HOW TO APPLY

Submit your current resume and a cover letter on SEEK by no later than Monday 22 April 4pm. We reserve the right to begin shortlisting and interviews prior to the closing date.

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The Catholic Archdiocese of Perth is committed to the Safeguarding of children and adults at risk.

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