Updates

August 21, 2024

Youth Justice Bill a step forward, but further reform needed

The Victorian Legislative Council passed the Youth Justice Bill last Thursday in a late night sitting, with a number of amendments. The Bill will return to the Legislative Assembly in two weeks, where it is expected to pass without further amendments. 

The Federation welcomes the Youth Justice Bill as a step in the right direction towards a youth justice system that is fair. However, we note that several areas of concern remain. We will continue to work with government to create positive change for children and young people who come into contact with the criminal legal system. 

August 20, 2024

Community Legal Centres are falling off a funding cliff – the Commonwealth Government must save them

Tomorrow, representatives from 160 Community Legal Centres will launch a national campaign at Australian Parliament House to call on the Federal Government to save the frontline legal services that support around 180,000 people each year.

August 13, 2024

Victorian Government takes a step back from youth justice reforms

The Federation is deeply disappointed by the Victorian Government’s decision to go back on its pledge to raise the age of criminal responsibility to 14 by 2027.

August 09, 2024

Ending homelessness is a goal we can't afford to miss

According to recent census data, almost 31,000 Victorians are without a home. And for many clients of Community Legal Centres, all roads lead back to a lack of suitable housing. 

July 29, 2024

Kids belong in classrooms and playgrounds, not police stations and prisons

When Sam* was 14, he was charged with unlicensed driving for riding a bicycle with a motor attached to it. Sam had been gifted the bicycle for his birthday, and had not realised that driving it was an offence.  

Sam was sent a court summons, but due to disruption to his living situation caused by family violence, Sam never received the notice, therefore missing his court appearance.