ACT public school students in years 11 and 12 will now have access to free legal services through a new partnership between the ACT Government and Legal Aid ACT.
Legal Aid ACT is establishing a fortnightly drop-in service at each public college where students can access free and confidential legal information and advice or book in for one-on-one appointments, which will also be available to family members of students.
Legal Aid ACT will also be available to provide classes at individual colleges, run by a Legal Liaison Officer, to provide education on legal matters that are particularly relevant to young people, such as family and domestic violence, employment matters and housing problems.
Minister for Education and Early Childhood Development, Yvette Berry, said “The legal system can be really overwhelming and complex and sometimes it’s hard to know where to start. These services will provide a safe and accessible place for young adults to seek advice.
“Through this new program, Legal Liaison Officers will be available to provide advice to students and their families on family violence matters including information and advice on how to apply for a Family Violence Orders, Care and Protection Orders and Parenting Orders,” Minister Berry said.
The President of Legal Aid ACT, Karen Fryer, said “I am delighted to see this partnership between ACT public school system and Legal Aid ACT. Providing avenues for advice and assistance to young people is a priority”.
Students can also receive advice on how the court process works and information about general criminal matters such as assault, theft and traffic matters such as drink or drug driving and speeding offences, as well as information about employment matters, residential tenancy disputes and disputes about unpaid debts
These services will provide students with initial information, support and advice. When necessary, Legal Liaison Officers will also be able to refer students to Legal Aid ACT for further representation or ongoing assistance.
