I was employed as the Senior Policy and Projects Officer in the Family, Youth and Children's Law program at Victoria Legal Aid. In this role I was responsible for coordinating strategic advocacy efforts across the program. We aimed to facilitate outcomes that have wider community, not just individual, benefit or provide a substantial benefit to a group within the community through remedying a legal problem or changing a policy or process. VLA does this by advocating for improved laws, policies and practices that lead to better justice outcomes for people experiencing vulnerability in Victoria.I honed my public policy, project and communication skills to advocate effectively for the promotion of the rights of children and families experiencing vulnerability and disadvantage in our welfare and justice systems.

This role focused on improving outcomes for children and families experiencing vulnerability and entrenched disadvantage in Victoria, including those involved in the family services, child protection and youth justice systems. It involved advocacy to influence and inform government policy development, undertaking research and synthesising information, managing projects, building relationships with stakeholders, and disseminating good practice in working with children and families.

This role involved conducting quantitative and qualitative research and surveys in sensitive subject matter areas. I developed and utilised exceptional verbal and written communication skills to engage with respondents efficiently and effectively