Fatima Payman (WA, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I recently met with representatives from Community Legal Western Australia, the peak body for community legal services in my home state of Western Australia. In a world where access to justice is not always guaranteed, these centres serve as beacons of hope, offering a lifeline to those who might otherwise be left voiceless and vulnerable. Community legal centres assisted 179,000 people across the country with managing everyday legal problems in 2022-2023. They empower individuals and communities to stand up for their rights and challenge injustice. Through education and outreach programs, they arm people with knowledge and resources they need to navigate the legal system with confidence and dignity. In doing so, they not only address the immediate legal needs of their clients but also work to address the systemic injustices that perpetuate poverty, inequality and marginalisation. By providing free legal help to people in need, they contribute to the great work of reform within our legal system.

A great example of this work is the achievement of justice for victims of robodebt, introduced by the former coalition government. As a senator for Western Australia, I wholeheartedly support and endorse the work of community legal centres. Whether through volunteerism, donations or advocacy, we all have a role to play in ensuring that everyone has equal access to justice under the law. I thank them and commend them for the incredible work they've been doing in WA and across the nation.