About the Association
The Eastwood-Macquarie District Association is the local organisation representing the suburbs of Eastwood, Marsfield, and Macquarie Park. Our core objective is to unite and collectivise the local community. Our mission is to stimulate social, economic and political change. Our purpose is to protect the wellbeing of residents and their families, combat social isolation and loneliness, provide opportunities for local businesses to thrive, and to ensure the voice of our community is heard by those in power. Our aim is to organise the community through grassroots events and activities, to build relationships between local residents, businesses, workers, and students alike.
Our People
We are building a large team of ambitious individuals who are capable of leading and steering the continuous growth of the district association. Our team consists of students, professionals, and retirees, with skills in law, finance, and public policy. We meet weekly to pass motions that direct the association’s operations, and spend 2-3 hours per week implementing the goals set in those meetings.
Our Legal Department
Large companies and global corporations often create and employ their own in-house legal teams. As a non-profit community organisation, we rely on skilled volunteers with an interest in helping others to populate our Legal Department.
The Legal Department is not just answerable to the board, it is a miniature board in itself. It may meet to propose policy, constitutional changes, events, or draft motions to direct the association’s operations. It is through our subcommittees that members gain both valuable governance experience and real-world work experience. Subcommittees also facilitate our members to network with experienced professionals and find opportunities outside of volunteer work.
Your Role
As a paralegal, you will essentially carry out the functions of a corporate paralegal. Your role will involve:
Corporate Governance Assisting with the preparation of board meetings, drafting minutes, and assisting board members with writing motions.
Contract Management Drafting contracts between the association and other parties, as directed by the board.
Legal Compliance Ensuring the association adheres with the Associations Incorporation Act 2009, Associations Incorporation Regulation 2022, and the constitution of the Eastwood-Macquarie District Association.
Risk Management Researching Ryde Council bylaws and other relevant legislation to ensure the association’s activities are legal, e.g. the board decides to proceed with hosting a local community event, the paralegals would research and clarify the requirements for insurance, security, etc.
You
We are looking for a passionate and creative individual who either possesses, or is in the process of acquiring, tertiary legal qualifications. Other qualities you will need are:
Hybrid Role Your role involves drafting documents before and after meetings, therefore it is critical that you are comfortable working both remotely and in-person.
Commitment This role involves your time, which we truly value. As a new team, we are looking for genuinely passionate individuals.
Confidentiality You will be responsible for handling confidential board meeting minutes, therefore it is essential that you are a trustworthy and reliable person.
Benefits of volunteering with the EMDA
- Gain career-experience in a low-pressure environment
- Meet new people who share your interests
- Become involved in helping your community
- Build leadership and governance skills
- Steer the direction of a growing community organisation
What to expect Upon applying, the Secretary will email you to arrange a preliminary phone-interview.