Calwell MP, Maria Vamvakinou hopes the Federal Government’s new Access to Justice website will give local people quick information about their rights and legal services. 

“Dealing with the justice system can be confusing and complex,” Ms Vamvakinou said.  

“People often don’t know where to turn for information or help, and this can lead to them missing out on their legal rights.” 

The new website, www.accesstojustice.gov.au is provided by the Commonwealth Attorney General’s Department and is part of a comprehensive package of measures to improve access to justice in the community. 

“All people need to do is type in their postcode or suburb and they will get comprehensive information and contact details of local legal services such as Broadmeadows Legal Aid, Broadmeadows Community Legal Centre, Broadmeadows Family Relationship Centres, and Dispute Resolution Services.” 

“The website will also provide a link to local lawyers, as well as relevant laws to enable people to understand their options early, and help to prevent or resolve their disputes.”

 The website forms a key part of the Government’s Strategic Framework for Access to Justice, which includes a number of other important measures, including the largest injection of funding into legal assistance services for well over a decade, bringing the total Commonwealth contribution to over $1.2 billion. The Calwell electorate will receive funding to ensure the continuation of the Community Legal Centre-Family Relationship Centre partnership.

 “It is appropriate that we are launching these initiatives on the eve of National Law Week as they recognise that access to justice is not just about access to a court or a lawyer, it is about providing practical, affordable and easily understood information,” Ms Vamvakinou said.

Media contacts:  Carole Fabian or Marianthi Kypuros  (03) 9309 3655