Support for community legal sector

The Tasmanian Greens today committed to maintain and restore funding for the community legal sector.

Greens Leader Nick McKim MP said the Greens are committed to restoring funding to the Environmental Defenders Office of Tasmania, which was recently cut by the Federal Government.

“The Environmental Defenders Office Tas was dealt a heavy blow in December 2013 by the Federal Government, who terminated their Commonwealth funding,” Mr McKim said.

“The Environmental Defenders Office of Tasmania offers a service to the community offered by no other organisation, and also plays a key role in community education and awareness of environmental law and providing legal advice.”

“Without Commonwealth support, the EDO is left to rely on support from the State Government, the Solicitors Guarantee Fund and meagre private donations, all of which leaves it on a precarious footing.”

“The Greens will invest in securing the ongoing funding for the EDO, so it can continue with its educative, and advocacy work with the community.”

“The community legal sector plays an essential role in the community, helping those who are often marginalised or who would not normally be able to access legal services.”

“The Greens are committed to maintaining the same level of State funding to the legal assistance sector for the coming term of government, as provided for in current service agreements.”

“The Greens have also committed to increasing the funding allocation for the Tasmanian Women’s Legal Service.”
Greens Leader Nick McKim