February 06, 2019

HOW INJUSTICE CONTRIBUTES TO MENTAL HEALTH PROBLEMS

Most people will suffer from a mental health challenge at some point in their lives. It is often the very fact of the injustice that our communities are experiencing that causes, or contributes to the mental health problems. It is clear that exclusion or marginalisation from society will impact upon the mental health of people. If you belong to a certain racial or religious group for example, and experience targeted and consistent discrimination - this would understandably impact upon your mental health.

November 19, 2018

A FAIR AND JUST VICTORIA: The Federation’s Justice Election Position Paper

Our plan for Victoria is that the next Victorian Government is proud to close prisons, rather than building more. The Federation of Community Legal Centres has an action plan to achieve this.

November 15, 2018

Surge in racist attacks: Statement by FCLC

Across Victoria, our centres have reported an over 50% increase in racist attacks on African-Australians and other communities of colour this year.*

June 21, 2018

United opposition to unfair and dangerous mandatory sentencing laws

Joint Statement - United opposition to unfair and dangerous mandatory sentencing laws

June 21, 2018

Women and families at risk under proposed new mandatory sentencing laws

For immediate release.

The Andrews Government has introduced legislation to expand mandatory sentencing for injury caused to emergency service workers, including ambulance officers, police, protective services officers, and custodial officers.  

The legislation has been introduced in a matter of weeks, with no consultation with the community sector, who work with people in times of crisis and trauma and rely on the support of emergency service workers. 

June 20, 2018

Toll road users deserve better rights – legislation to be tabled today needs to be passed now

Today legislation enters the parliament that will provide better rights for toll users. The Federation of Community Legal Centres calls on all parties to support the Bill. The Bill was originally drafted by the Andrews’ Government as part of the West Gate Tunnel Bill and has now been split from this bill to form its own Toll Fine Enforcement Bill, which is being tabled by the Greens.

June 20, 2018

Communities need to be able to rely on emergency services

Communities need to be able to rely on emergency services for support – Community legal submission on the impact mandatory jail sentences on distressed people and their families

“On 22 May 2018 the Andrews’ Government announced it would introduce laws that would mean anyone who injures an emergency service worker or police officer on duty would receive a jail sentence.

Less than a month later he is planning to introduce these laws without consulting the community.

May 18, 2018

Stand up for LGBTIQ people in prison

Prison is a profoundly isolating experience for most. But for LGBTIQ people, it can be particularly tough.  

May 02, 2018

Funding for schools, health services welcome: but community lawyers miss out in budget

The Federation of Community Legal Centres – the peak body for community lawyers in Victoria – says community lawyers have missed out in this year’s State Budget.

April 24, 2018

A just and fair Victoria: Our submission to the 2018/19 Victorian budget

A just and fair Victoria: Our submission to the 2018/19 Victorian budget