Far North Queenslanders are set to benefit from an $11.2 million cash injection for community legal services over the next five years.
Attorney-General and Minister for Justice Yvette D’Ath said the funding would ensure the ongoing provision of quality legal assistance services, delivered in the community to Far North Queenslanders.
“Queensland’s community legal sector delivers vital services to thousands of Queenslanders,” Mrs D’Ath said.
“Our community legal centres provide advice and assistance to some of the most vulnerable and disadvantaged people.
“This package is worth $11.2 million over five years and it will give our community legal centres in the Far North the certainty they need to continue their great work.”
The Far North Queensland organisations being funded are:
- North Queensland Women’s Legal Service ($6.95 million)
- Cairns Community Legal Centre ($4.25 million)
Mrs D’Ath said the Palaszczuk Government worked closely with the sector’s peak body, Community Legal Centres Queensland, on the Statewide funding package worth $119 million over five years.
The State-Commonwealth funding is being delivered through the National Legal Assistance Partnership 2020-25.
Member for Cairns Michael Healy said: “I am aware of the great work done by Cairns Community Legal Service and North Queensland Women’s Legal Service in our city and am very happy to see them get certainty over their funding
“These Services are to be commended for their steadfast commitment to ensuring people have access to the information and support they need to help navigate the legal system in what can be very stressful circumstances.”
