Queenslanders are set to benefit from a $119.45 million cash injection for community legal services over the next five years.
Attorney-General and Minister for Justice Yvette D’Ath said the joint State-Commonwealth funding would ensure the ongoing provision of quality legal assistance services, delivered in the community to thousands of 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 $119 million over five years and it will give our community legal centres the certainty they need to continue their great work.”
Mrs D’Ath said the Palaszczuk Government worked closely with the sector’s peak body, Community Legal Centres Queensland, on the funding package, delivered through the ³Ô¹ÏÍøÕ¾ Legal Assistance Partnership 2020-25.
“This funding will go to legal services providers in key regional centres including Cairns, Townsville, Mackay, Rockhampton, Gladstone and Hervey Bay,” she said.
“With the impacts of COVID-19, a lot of Queenslanders are struggling to make ends meet right now, but many still need access to quality legal services.
“The funding we’re providing will help to meet this need, while also supporting legal practitioners and paralegal workers, particularly in regional Queensland.”
Mrs D’Ath paid tribute to Queensland’s legal assistance services sector, acknowledging the dedication and hard work of those working in the sector.
“I want to thank service providers for their patience as we’ve put this package together,” she said.
“There have been some delays as a result of COVID-19 but importantly, for the first time we’ve been able to deliver a five-year package, up from three years.
“The Palaszczuk Government will continue to support the provision of community legal services, particularly in regional Queensland.”
