Students in Years 11 and 12 in the ACT’s public schools are to have access to free legal services through a new partnership between the ACT Government and Legal Aid ACT.
Announced by the Minister for Education and Early Childhood Development, Yvette Berry, Legal Aid ACT is to establish 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.
Ms Berry said the services would also be available to the 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,” Ms Berry said.
“The legal system can be really overwhelming and complex and sometimes it’s hard to know where to start,” she said.
“These services will provide a safe and accessible place for young adults to seek advice.”
Ms Berry said that through the program, Legal Liaison Officers would be available to provide advice to students and their families on family violence matters including information and advice on how to apply for Family Violence Orders, Care and Protection Orders and Parenting Orders.
“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,” she said.
“These services will provide students with initial information, support and advice.”
Ms Berry said that when necessary, Legal Liaison Officers would also be able to refer students to Legal Aid ACT for further representation or ongoing assistance.
