Introduction

The Aboriginal Justice Caucus (AJC) plays an integral role in the partnership between the Victorian Government and the Aboriginal community to implement the objectives of Burra Lotjpa Dunguludja, Aboriginal Justice Agreement Phase Four.

The AJC provides state-wide Aboriginal representation and leadership regarding the Aboriginal community’s priorities, challenges and position in relation to existing policies and programs, and the development of new initiatives.

The secretariat supports the AJC to be well briefed and prepared in relation to emerging issues and maintains the relationship between the AJC and relevant State and Commonwealth agencies. The AJC secretariat is foundational to ensuring self-determination is at the core of all AJC engagements with government and other stakeholders.

In 2018 at the launch of Burra Lotjpa Dunguludja, the Attorney-General committed funding to support the establishment of a secretariat to support the AJC. Further funding was provided in subsequent years to provide additional operational support. The AJC are now supported by an Executive Officer, Policy Officer and Administration Officer.

The Opportunity

Through Burra Lotjpa Dunguludja, the Victorian Government and the Aboriginal community are committed to improving justice outcomes and reducing the risk of Aboriginal people coming into contact with the criminal justice system.

A significant component of the Victorian Government (Department of Justice and Community Safety) activities in implementing the initiatives under Burra Lotjpa Dunguludja has been the allocation of grant funds to Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations to deliver locally driven responses to local needs. This approach aligns to the Victorian Government's commitment to self-determination.

Support for the Aboriginal Justice Caucus is a priority under Burra Lotjpa Dunguludja, Domain 4. Greater self-determination in the justice sector.

Under this Domain the AJC secretariat seeks to meet the following goals and outcomes:

• Goal 4.2: Greater Aboriginal community leadership and strategic decision making.
• Outcome 4.2.1: Aboriginal people have greater roles in leadership, governance and decision making.

For more information regarding the Aboriginal Justice Agreement please visit the Aboriginal Justice website https://www.aboriginaljustice.vic.gov.au

The Department of Justice and Community Safety (the Department) in partnership with the AJC are seeking a suitable qualified organisation from established Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations known to the AJC and the Department for the delivery of Secretariat functions to the AJC as an Auspice.