Shadow Attorney-General Lara Giddings has joined with around 200 members and supporters of the Aboriginal community to fight for funding for the Tasmanian Aboriginal Legal Service.
The Federal Government has disgracefully withdrawn funding for the Tasmanian Aboriginal Legal Service, handing it instead to the Victorian Aboriginal Legal Service.
“It’s clear from today’s meeting that the community is not going to give up without a fight,” Ms Giddings said.
“Labor stands ready with the Aboriginal community to do whatever it takes to have this decision overturned.
“It’s critically important that the Tasmanian Aboriginal community is represented by experienced lawyers and local people from their own community.
“No other service will be able to provide the holistic support as is provided through the Tasmanian Aboriginal Centre, which brings together legal, health and community support in a one-stop-shop environment.
“The Tasmanian Aboriginal Legal Service has supported its community for more than 40 years and is now the target of a vindictive political decision.
“Attorney-General George Brandis and the Abbott Government must immediately reverse its funding decision.
“Premier Will Hodgman must stand up to his Liberal colleagues in Canberra and show he’s serious about improving his relationship with Tasmania’s Aboriginal community.
“This is the first big test for the Premier after his promise to “reset” his relationship with the Aboriginal community.
“I will not stop fighting until this appalling decision is reversed.”
Lara Giddings MP Shadow Attorney-General
