Youth Criminal Lawyer (Junior to Senior Level)

Advocate for justice and equality in the NT. NAAJA seeks passionate Youth Criminal Lawyers at all experience levels.

Criminal Lawyer (Junior to Senior Level) – Darwin

About Naaja

The North Australian Aboriginal Justice Agency (NAAJA) provides legal assistance and justice services for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people across the Northern Territory. With offices in Darwin, Palmerston, Katherine, Tennant Creek and Alice Springs, NAAJA is recognised as a leading legal service, having received multiple national and local awards for human rights and crime prevention.

We are driven by a clear purpose — to achieve dignity, respect and justice for Aboriginal people — through high-quality legal representation, community education and systemic advocacy.

We Offer

• Competitive salary based on experience: $91,963.01 to $130,458.23
• Generous leave – 6 weeks annual leave with 17.5% loading, and 3 weeks personal leave
• Access up to $18,550 tax-free salary packaging
• Professional development opportunities and clear pathways for career progression
• Supportive, collaborative workplace committed to social justice and community outcomes

About The Role

NAAJA’s Criminal Law Practice is busy and diverse, providing advice and representation across youth, summary, indictable and appellate crime matters.

We are seeking motivated and committed Criminal Lawyers at junior, mid or senior level to join our Youth team in Darwin.

Depending on your level of experience, you will:

• Represent clients in the Local, Youth and Supreme Courts, including bail applications, pleas, hearings, and appeals.
• Provide high-quality, culturally appropriate legal advice to Aboriginal clients.
• Work collaboratively with client service officers, administrative staff and other lawyers.
• Contribute to law reform, test cases, and advocacy addressing systemic disadvantage.
• (For Senior Lawyers) Mentor and guide junior staff, and appear in complex matters including committal hearings, trials and appellate work.
• This role requires high levels of motivation, cultural awareness, and a commitment to social justice.

What You’Ll Bring

• Admission (or eligibility for admission) as a Legal Practitioner in the Northern Territory
• Understanding of criminal law and a passion for advocacy
• Strong communication skills and the ability to build trust with Aboriginal clients
• Organisational skills to manage a high-volume caseload effectively
• Willingness to travel to regional and remote circuit courts
• Current Driver’s Licence and ability to obtain an Ochre Card

Why Join Naaja?

You’ll be part of a respected Aboriginal community-controlled organisation making a tangible difference in people’s lives. Whether you’re newly admitted and looking for mentorship, or an experienced criminal advocate ready to take on complex Supreme Court work, NAAJA offers the support, variety and purpose to grow your career.

Join NAAJA — where your legal career contributes to real justice and change.

Apply Now!

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are strongly encouraged to apply.