A special kind of unity: VU and CommUnity+ celebrate impact

Tracey Gaudry, CEO at CommUnity+ is vocal and proud of the benefits of the first year partnering with Victoria University: 

“it’s been a privilege to see VU students – from the disciplines of social work, community education and law, among others – develop vital practice experience in work placement opportunities across our settings to support delivery of stellar outcomes for individuals, families and the broader community in Melbourne’s west.

Victoria University and CommUnity+, who formally signed a partnership agreement in 2024, are making a real impact. In its first twelve months, the organisations have achieved increased employment opportunities for VU alumni, placements for students, engagement on community events, and are exploring research projects – all with a deep focus on growing community impact.

Fifteen success stories 

In 2024, ten students did placements and five VU graduates secured full-time work following their placements in law, social work, and community development.  

VU students completing placements with CommUnity+ are gaining valuable experience with the Brimbank Melton Community Legal Centre, Children’s Contact Centre, and Neighbourhood House.   

Ruth Kerkhoff, Manager of the CommUnity+ Children's Contact Service, said that the relationship brings rewards for both sides:   

“It is always a privilege to guide new practitioners in their professional practice and help them adjust to the day-to-day demands of working in a busy, client-focused team.  We love the enthusiasm and the social justice focus we have seen in VU students.  It is always beneficial to revisit what we do, and why, and our students encourage us to do this by being curious and bringing new perspectives."  

Rewarding careers in law 

Family lawyer and VU law graduate Farriz Roslan, started at the Brimbank Melton Community Legal Centre, run by CommUnity+, in 2024, straight after graduation. As part of his role, he works with VU law students on placement.  

“On placement, students gain an insight into the benefits of providing early-intervention legal support, and experience working with people facing barriers to accessing the legal system,” Farriz said.  

The partnership has also strengthened connections between VU alumni, students, and community legal services. 

People like John Kon, VU alum and community leader, who said he is "empowered to go to the community every single day; to go to the court and talk to the client, as well as the community and to make sure that the vulnerable people of the community are uplifted.”  

John joined Brimbank Melton Community Legal Centre as a community lawyer, assisting clients with legal issues from infringements to criminal matters. He facilitates community legal education and leads the African Australian Assistance Project, funded by the Victoria Legal Services Board to improve access to justice and build legal capabilities within the African Australian community.    

John also mentors VU law students and was a panellist at VU’s annual Student Leadership Conference, sharing his career insights on the theme Strength in Diversity.  

In 2024 John received the VU Alumni Award for Professional Achievement.   

Growing impact in 2025 

The impact of the partnership is happening both inside and outside the classroom. CommUnity+ engages with the VU student community through career masterclasses and student orientation festivals and VU is giving CommUnity+'s clients free access to careers support services, through the VU Skills & Jobs Centre. 

Tracey Gaudry is excited about the future opportunities and believes more can be achieved.  

In 2025, we are committed to growing the partnership to maximise its potential and develop further opportunities for impact. 

Learn more about the CommUnity+ and VU partnership.