Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Websites
Licenses Certificates
Personal Information
Accomplishments
Timeline
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Sarah Michaels

Kambah,ACT

Summary

Versatile professional with a diverse background spanning Administration, Banking, Finance, Accounting, Legal Services, and Document Control... Results-driven professional skilled in researching legal case information and preparing necessary correspondence with strong understanding of legal terminology and processes. Adept in maintaining confidential records and client information. Pleasantly assists attorneys in preparing for trials and other legal proceedings. Detail-oriented team player with strong organizational skills. Ability to handle multiple projects simultaneously with a high degree of accuracy.

Overview

24
24
years of professional experience

Work History

Legal Case Manager

Sisters in Law Project (SILP)
04.2021 - Current
  • Highly experienced in legal drafting, preparation and reviewing of documents, legal research, advocacy - including appearing as McKenzie Friend in various jurisdictions
  • Key achievement includes consulting with NSW Joint Select Committee on Coercive Control in 2021, resulting in legislation passing
  • Strong communicator and public speaker with advanced written skills
  • Staunch advocate for policy change in line with public expectations, backed by research undertaken at a collaborative level
  • Strong communication skills resulting in ability to form relationships built on trust with colleagues, external stakeholders such as solicitors and barristers, and clients
  • Strong management of caseload requirements along with budget monitoring
  • Conduct extensive legal research and pride myself on my ability to draft legal documents and case summaries in preparation for counsel, and my keen attention to detail allows me to review documents for compliance adhering to strict legal requirements
  • Have experiencing in attending Court alongside counsel and assisting with various duties on the day
  • Have a natural ability to work under pressure and think on my feet.
  • Researched statutes, decisions, legal articles, and codes
  • Revised and finalized letters, briefs, and memos
  • Contacted clients to schedule appointments and discuss progress of cases
  • Communicated pertinent information to clients via phone, email, and mail
  • Collaborated with attorneys to develop strategies for each case
  • Researched and analyzed legal issues and cases to provide accurate advice to clients
  • Reviewed, edited and proofread litigation for proper grammar, spelling and punctuation
  • Interviewed clients to obtain information relevant to cases
  • Attended court hearings to take notes and document proceedings

Site Administrator | Document Controller

Round Oak Minerals | Aeris Resources
05.2021 - 11.2023
  • First point of contact for all project-related enquiries
  • Responsible for onboarding of internal staff and external contractors
  • Provide administrative support to relevant departments, inclusive of head office, corporate, finance, commercial, procurement manager, projects and IT
  • Duties and responsibilities included reporting, scheduling, drafting and reviewing documents, monthly accruals, budget support, maintaining INX OH&S, raising, approving, converting and receipting Purchase Orders (proficient in Pronto)
  • Arrange travel and accommodation as required for internal staff accessing site and external contractors, including developing spreadsheets used for bookings and cleaning rosters
  • Conduct inductions, including re-writing former induction material in accordance with project changes
  • Draft and implemented all COVID-19 related policies and procedures in line with State legislation and requirements
  • General ad-hoc duties as required
  • Facilitate relevant and necessary training for site team
  • Liaise with key stakeholders, including contractors (engineers, business analysts, geophysicists, geologists, environmental advisers and government officials) to ensure compliance in accordance with internal policies and legislation were being met
  • Facilitating quarterly Community Reference Group meetings. Once the Community Liaison Officer was recruited, they took carriage of this task, however my attendance and input was still vital
  • Assist with tenement management where required, including licencing and permits
  • Responsible for migration of all relevant project documents to SharePoint
  • OH&S duties, including being first reporting line for any site-related incidents, ensuring policy and procedure was strictly adhered to
  • Assisted the Senior Geologist with numerous drilling operations, particularly in a logistic sense
  • In July 2022, Round Oak Minerals was acquired by Aeris Resources. In this time, my role from Site Administrator had a material change, which saw me instrumental in providing support during the acquisition phase. I was promoted to Document Controller, where I executed both this, and Site Administrator contemporaneously. These additional duties included:
  • Document Control of all internal documents, including revising the Round Oak Minerals documents and migrating the relevant ones to Aeris, which required formatting in accordance with Aeris rules
  • Establishment of Aeris Stockman document library, which was then utilized across the wider Aeris business
  • Establishment and redrafting of contracts, policies and procedures
  • Oversaw the Feasibility Study report as directed by the General Manager, including liaising with key stakeholders with relation to material, reviewing, formatting and editing, whilst ensuring the report met internal expectations
  • Working closely alongside the General Manager and Construction Manager to implement project policies and procedures, including drafting of contracts, Scope of Works, Credit Applications in preparation for commencement of construction
  • Working closely alongside the Group Procurement Manager and Commercial Services Manager to oversee the procurement and financial management of the project, including central input into the Project budget and contract administration
  • Instrumental in advising the Commercial Manager and the General Manager with all relevant insight into the operations formerly under Round Oak, and what was integral to Aeris
  • Procurement of suppliers, particularly under high pressure. By way of example, during a drilling operation in June 2023, our pump malfunctioned. We were contractually subject to a $5,000 per day stand-down, therefore it was prudent to acquire a new pump as soon practicable to mitigate the risk of material financial loss. By the end of the day, I had sourced a new supplier and coordinated with them to have a new pump mobilized to site within 48 hours, including internal approval for out of budget spend and finalization of the Credit Application. What was initially going to cost us $30,000 in stand-down, only cost us a day and a half. Given the nature of how remote our site is, this in itself was a challenge, however through strong negotiating skills I was able to achieve a positive result for the business, resulting in a good financial outcome
  • Strong insight into project spends and risk mitigation
  • Drafting and submitting of CER (Capital Expenditure Request) where required, with a strong focus on justification of spend
  • Utilising the Felix platform, I was responsible for the procurement of all external suppliers
  • I would assist with their Felix submissions where required, ensuring all compliance documents were checked prior to approval
  • Analysis of project budget v spend and identifying areas where we can save costs, including CAPEX and OPEX
  • Identify opportunities for overall project efficiency improvement
  • Development, implementation and regular maintenance of asset register
  • Maintain the document and contract library (SharePoint based)
  • Assist in project deliverables
  • Implementation and regular maintenance of documents vital to the project’s success, including budget spreadsheet, list of suppliers, contractors, purchase orders, potential suppliers, Scope of Works and contract templates
  • Liaising with local government agencies, including East Gippsland Shire Council, DEECA, DELWP
  • Assist with Social Impact Assessment by way of liaising with consultants undertaking the task and providing feedback sourced from local key stakeholders, including members of the local community.
  • Coordinated site investigations, documented issues, and escalated to executive teams
  • Accurately documented all onsite issue using INX
  • Generated reports to inform stakeholders and management of financial and production statuses for Stockman project
  • Identified community resources and networked with local officials to coordinate
  • Established and maintained relationships with vendors to source affordable and high quality materials and equipment for construction projects
  • Implemented systems to improve process efficiency and reduce project duration
  • Performed regular job site observations to provide direction for general contractor personnel and subcontractor laborers
  • Assisted in organizing and overseeing assignments to drive operational excellence
  • Tracked project costs and other financial metrics to maximize profitability
  • Coordinated with site personnel, clients and local government officials to achieve on-time project delivery
  • Prepared detailed project estimates and reports for management review
  • Scheduled utility service providers according to project timelines
  • Provided support for document controls and worked with contract documents
  • Established and managed document distribution matrix and document control register
  • Complied with safety regulations as outlined in organizational procedures to minimize [Type] issues
  • Enforced use of standardized forms and templates to achieve uniformity of communications across departments and functions
  • Checked accuracy and completeness of documents to identify deficiencies and recommend corrective actions
  • Carefully reviewed all documents and reports for completeness and accuracy
  • Maintained document archive and file server of approved documents and drawings to provide easy traceability and retrievability
  • Evaluated current document processes, suggested methods for change and implemented successful improvements
  • Created project control documentation to support needs of important projects
  • Monitored due dates and deadlines and worked to submit all documents on time or early
  • Liaised with project teams, vendors and third parties on documentation flow, handover, and project close-out
  • Allocated unique document numbers to internal documents and incoming external documents and tracked in database
  • Scanned, filed and transmitted various documents and adhered to digital filing procedures
  • Worked with internal staff to process documents and sent for closing
  • Identified areas of weakness and recommended or implemented process improvements
  • Collaborated across departments and levels of management to gain consensus on procedural documentation
  • Developed and edited template contracts with changes in company's service lines or new developments
  • Established, improved and reinforced document management systems to handle current and expected requirements
  • Remained informed on current regulations, especially concerning research industry and document creation
  • Performed document reproduction, printing documents from electronic sources such as email attachments, PDF files and cloud storage
  • Contributed to design and implementation of overall corporate documentation standards, numbering conventions and templates
  • Assisted with document troubleshooting and recovery of corrupt documents and files
  • Promoted efficient document processing by maintaining orderly and clean control room
  • Maintained organized and efficient document flows by using excellent planning and multitasking skills
  • Converted documents from one application to another
  • Maintained legally compliant, highly secure and user-friendly content to facilitate smooth use by internal and external stakeholders
  • Managed regulatory requirements and audit support needs by completing and submitting accurate paperwork
  • Gathered, reviewed and input financial reports each day using Pronto software
  • Reviewed document management protocols and user activities against internal records policies and document management standards
  • Prepared documents for projects in accordance with project manager, team, or client specifications

Bookkeeper

06.2010 - 04.2021
  • Bookkeeper for various companies and organisations, including builders, landscapers, fencing contractors, commercial cleaners, truck and Uber drivers and contractors. I managed over 20 clients with a focus on ensuring their compliance obligations were met and assisted with their business growth, procuring new contracts, including government tenders.
  • Tasks included preparation of quarterly BAS, liaising with other parties including accountants, WorkCover, Insurers and Brokers. I maintained a high level of filing compliance and financial reconciliation, drafted policies, managed Superannuation for employees and oversaw payroll
  • Experience in Xero and MYOB, along with Microsoft Office.

Trainee Accountant

MAS Tax Accountants
07.2017 - 02.2019
  • Accounts and account administration, including general accounting and clerical assistance contributing to the effective financial management of the practice
  • Reconciliation
  • Maintain tax and financial records in accordance with legislation, Australian accounting standards and relevant policies, procedures and guidelines
  • Assist and work closely with the principal accountant
  • Assist other team members where required
  • Assist in the training of junior staff members and reception and admin staff
  • Liaise with the ATO
  • Source referrals and build relationships for new business, including liaising with Government departments to procure new clients
  • Retention of clients who were at risk of relocating to a different firm
  • Ensured safe work practices were adhered to in accordance with workplace health and safety measures
  • Proven ability to maintain confidentiality and tact
  • Numerical ability and strong data entry.
  • Developed technical knowledge through combination of workplace learning and formal study
  • Completed financial reports, providing insight into performance, operations, and cash flow
  • Prepared straightforward tax returns and explained expected refund or income tax liability and due date for payment
  • Received, reviewed and verified validity and completeness of appropriation, accounting and financial data
  • Demonstrated commercial awareness and time management skills through work on budget and task organization
  • Employed self-review and analytical review techniques to proactively identify fundamental errors
  • Measured revenues, automated accounting systems and internal controls to evaluate financial data and transactions
  • Analyzed and verified employee expense reports for accuracy

Senior Case Manager

QBE Workers' Compensation
12.2009 - 10.2011
  • Successfully managing claims and entitlements to Workers' Compensation
  • Leading Return to Work process for Injured Workers and Employers
  • Mediating meetings with Injured Workers, Employers, Rehabilitation Advisors, Treating Healthcare Practitioners
  • Maintaining files to ensure all information is up to date and compliant
  • Attending and participating in Medical Case Conference
  • Attending and participating in Legal Case Conferences
  • Liaising with all concerned parties, including Injured Workers, Employers, Medical Practitioners, Surgeons, Hospitals, Lawyers
  • Working autonomously
  • Working collectively with interested parties to ensure successful Return to Work is achieved
  • Completing all legislative requirements, including Personal Injury Plans, Compliant Letters, ensuring tasks are completed before legislative set date
  • Ensuring copies of all correspondence is placed on file
  • Ensuring a supportive and empathetic attitude is maintained whilst dealing with Injured Workers
  • Sensitivity demonstrated to information provided regarding Injured Workers
  • Strict level of professionalism adhered to at all times, when dealing across board with concerned parties
  • Solid understanding of Medical and Legal terminology
  • Demonstration of excellent communication skills
  • Proven knowledge of Victorian, ACT and NSW legislation.
  • Created well-written, effective care plans appropriately matching needs of clients following standards and guidelines of funders, contractors and governmental regulations
  • Informally mentored new case managers and service coordinators, answering questions, offering opportunities to shadow and observe and explaining basic information about company procedures
  • Coordinated diverse resources to facilitate total care plan
  • Made appropriate referrals, monitored client services in appropriate time frames, sought supervisory guidance as required, documented services provided and completed departmental billing procedures
  • Teamed up with managers and executives to assist in evaluating and improving performance of direct services, contributing to strategic program planning and development
  • Served as case coordinator, assuming responsibility for complex, high-volume assignments and guiding endeavors to successful completion
  • Assisted and accompanied clients and families to court, legal appointments, health care, public benefits and social or community agencies relative to client short- and long-term stabilization goals
  • Partnered with physicians, social workers, activity therapists, nutritionists, and case managers to develop and implement individualized care plans and documented patient interactions and interventions in electronic charting systems
  • Identified care needs of individual patients and coordinated responses based on physician advice, insurance limitations, and procedural costs
  • Developed and implemented comprehensive case management plans to address client needs and goals
  • Developed and implemented safety plans for clients at risk of harm to provide protection
  • Coordinated services with other agencies, community-based organizations, and healthcare professionals to provide useful benefits to clients
  • Utilized trauma-informed approach to promote healing and empowerment for clients

Case Manager - Stream 4 Services

Neato Employment Agency
10.2008 - 11.2009
  • Providing solutions to candidates with identified pre-vocational barriers to working, through methods of therapy, training and assistance by accessing Government Funding
  • Completing JCA (Job Capacity Assessments) on all candidates that were referred via Centrelink
  • Accessing Government Funding to ensure homeless candidates are placed in temporary accommodation, then sourcing out permanent living arrangements for them
  • Working within legislation of ESS and Centrelink
  • Ensuring privacy of candidates is adhered to, but referred on for appropriate services, where required
  • Authorising referrals and reports for services required following completion of program
  • Managing a team of 4, including one Counsellor, Trainee Counsellor and Administration staff.

Case Manager

Allianz Workers' Compensation
01.2004 - 09.2008
  • Successfully managing claims and entitlements to Workers' Compensation
  • Leading Return to Work process for Injured Workers and Employers
  • Mediating meetings with Injured Workers, Employers, Rehabilitation Advisors, Treating Healthcare Practitioners
  • Maintaining files to ensure all information is up to date
  • Attending and participating in Legal Mediations with Injured Worker and their Solicitor, representing Allianz throughout Mediation process
  • Liaising with all concerned parties, including Injured Workers, Employers, Medical Practitioners, Surgeons, Hospitals and Lawyers
  • Completing all legislative requirements, including Personal Injury Plans, Compliant Letters, ensuring tasks are completed before legislative set date
  • Ensuring copies of all correspondence is placed on file
  • Ensuring a supportive and empathetic attitude is maintained whilst dealing with Injured Workers
  • Sensitivity demonstrated to information provided regarding Injured Workers
  • Strict level of professionalism adhered to at all times when dealing across board with all concerned parties
  • Solid understanding of Medical and Legal terminology
  • Demonstration of excellent communication skills
  • Proven knowledge of Victorian Legislation.

CSO / Branch Manager

St. George Bank
01.2000 - 09.2004
  • I began my career in Finance, securing this role as Part Time Customer Service Officer whilst studying part time
  • After 1 year of working for the bank, I was offered role of Branch Manager
  • I operated an ABC (Automated Banking Centre), where we didn't deal with cash, but provided online solutions to banking. This saw the culture of banking shift from the more traditional banking methods to online
  • I was involved in all daily procedures of the Bank and managed a Part Time CSO
  • I worked collectively with the Lending Manager to ensure tough KPI's were met
  • I was elevated to the role of Branch Manager in Corporate Banking, managing client accounts with value of >$1,000,000.

Education

Bachelor of Law -

Charles Sturt University

Diploma Financial Services - undefined

Institute of Financial Services

Diploma Financial Planning - undefined

Institute of Financial Services

Skills

Punctualundefined

Licenses Certificates

  • Unrestricted Manual Driving License (full demerit points)
  • Working with Children’s Check
  • Federal Police Check
  • Provide First Aid
  • Provide basic emergency life support
  • Provide cardiopulmonary resuscitation
  • PS 146 compliant

Personal Information

Hobbies: I enjoy spending time outdoors with my family, including camping in the High Country, 4WDing and fishing...

Accomplishments

  • Collaborated with the NSW Parliamentary Joint Select Committee on Criminalising Coercive Control in April 2021, resulting in the legislation passing in November 2021.

Timeline

Site Administrator | Document Controller

Round Oak Minerals | Aeris Resources
05.2021 - 11.2023

Legal Case Manager

Sisters in Law Project (SILP)
04.2021 - Current

Trainee Accountant

MAS Tax Accountants
07.2017 - 02.2019

Bookkeeper

06.2010 - 04.2021

Senior Case Manager

QBE Workers' Compensation
12.2009 - 10.2011

Case Manager - Stream 4 Services

Neato Employment Agency
10.2008 - 11.2009

Case Manager

Allianz Workers' Compensation
01.2004 - 09.2008

CSO / Branch Manager

St. George Bank
01.2000 - 09.2004

Bachelor of Law -

Charles Sturt University

Diploma Financial Services - undefined

Institute of Financial Services

Diploma Financial Planning - undefined

Institute of Financial Services

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Sarah Michaels