The Advocacy & Legal Division comprises a co-located Community Legal Centre, a specialist team supporting students affected by gender-based violence, and the Student Advocacy Service. The Advocacy Service gives students independent advice and representation in formal and informal University processes. Students facing the University are at a power disadvantage, and they work to offset it. They also use what they learn from casework to push for change to the University policies and practices that cause problems for students.

About the role

University of Melbourne Student Union are looking for an experienced advocate to join the Advocacy Service as Senior Advocate. You will manage a substantial caseload, coordinating each matter through to the best outcome available.

You will advise students on their rights and responsibilities under university regulations, policies and procedures, help them prepare submissions, appeals and complaints, and negotiate on their behalf with academic and administrative staff. Beyond casework, you will review and monitor University policy on academic progress, complaints, appeals and misconduct matters, prepare submissions to the University and external bodies, track trends in higher education and report on their impact on students. You will contribute to induction for elected student representatives, develop self-help resources and represent student interests in University and UMSU forums.

The role works with a high degree of autonomy and reports to the Team Leader, Advocacy Service. Applicants with a background in student advocacy work, law, social work or a related field are encouraged to apply.

About You (Need to Have)

• A degree and at least four years’ relevant experience, or an equivalent combination of experience and education
• Proven skills in advocacy and negotiation, ideally in an education or tribunal setting
• Research and policy skills, including evaluating, developing and implementing policy
• Strong written, verbal and interpersonal communication
• Knowledge of current issues in higher education, including government policy
• A good understanding of the issues that affect students
• The ability to work well in a team
• Experience in higher education or with student organisations, and training in risk assessment or gender-based violence, would be an advantage.
• Availability to work on campus at least three days a week. In-person work is an inherent requirement of the role, and flexible arrangements are subject to UMSU’s Flexible Work Policy.

Bonus Points (Nice to Have)

• Experience in the higher education sector and/or in student, community and/or membership-based organisations; and
• A commitment to the principles of student unionism.

About The University of Melbourne Student Union Inc (UMSU)

The University of Melbourne Student Union Inc (UMSU) is a dynamic, for-purpose incorporated association, serving as the representative body for all students at the University of Melbourne. Structured around student control of student affairs, UMSU is governed by an elected Students’ Council and twelve student departments, chosen by and from the student body.