APS 5 – Associate – FCFCOA

Family Law
Melbourne
April 5, 2022
Full Time
Application deadline closed.

Job Description

The Associate is part of a team assisting a Judge in the day to day management of Chambers and Court. The role of the Associate is to manage chambers and to supervise the Deputy Associate.

Jurisdiction

The Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia commenced on 1 September 2021 when the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia Act 2021 (FCFCOA Act) came into effect.

The Court comprises two divisions: Division 1 (a continuation of the Family Court of Australia) which deals only with family law matters; and Division 2 (a continuation of the Federal Circuit Court of Australia) which deals with family law, migration and other general federal law matters.

The overarching purpose of the family law practice and procedure provisions as outlined in the FCFCOA Act is to facilitate the just resolution of disputes according to law; and as quickly, inexpensively and efficiently as possible.

In family law cases, if it is safe to do so, parties will be encouraged to engage with dispute resolution opportunities before, and throughout, the Court process. For the cases that need to proceed to a trial before a judge, the Court will provide a safe, fair and modern system of justice. The Court’s aim over time is to resolve more than 90 per cent of family law matters within 12 months to reduce the time, cost and stress associated with litigation.

In the general federal law and migration jurisdictions, the Court continues to ensure that justice is delivered effectively and efficiently through the enhanced use of technology and centralised case management processes.

The Court is Australia’s largest federal court. It is a national court and places significant focus on delivering access to justice to people living in regional areas. The Court sits in all capital cities, selected major regional centres and circuits to a number of regional locations.

Role responsibilities

  • Day-to-day running of chambers including responding to enquiries.
  • Supervise the work of the deputy associate.
  • Assist the Judge to manage the docket by preparing and managing matters waiting for hearing.
  • Ensure the court’s case management system is up-to-date and assist the Judge in the preparation of orders and typing of judgments.
  • Maintain court related relationships with various external stakeholders.
  • Contribute to organisational forums working for better working practices.
  • Other duties as required.

Selection Criteria

  1. Strong communication (oral and written) and liaison skills and the ability to communicate with people of all levels.
  2. Demonstrated high-level keyboard skills and ability to use relevant software applications including Microsoft Office applications and the internet.
  3. The ability to adapt to changing situations and priorities.
  4. Tolerance, diligence and the ability to work as a member of a small team.
  5. A high standard of ethical behaviour.

Other Requirements

  • Legal qualifications is desirable.
  • Ability to undertake legal research as required by the Judge.
  • The ability to travel on circuits as required.

Contact Officer

For more information please contact Venicia Godbee, Judicial Services Team Leader via telephone 0436 601 946 or email [email protected].

Applications close 15 April 2022.