8. Funding Crisis: The History and Work of the Aboriginal Legal Service with John Nicholson SC

Following on from last month’s episode looking at medical negligence in Indigenous communities. This month Law Matters turns its lens to funding for the Aboriginal Legal Service.

The Aboriginal Legal Service (ALS) provides free legal advice and representation for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders across the country, but a sharp increase in demand has left the ALS in need of more funding to continue the much needed work that it does. A request for $250 million in emergency funding was not met in this year’s federal budget.

In this episode, Legal Projects Officer at Catherine Henry Lawyers, Michael Byrne, talks to retired Judge, John Nicholson SC about his work within Indigenous communities and why the ALS provides such an important service.

In this episode you’ll find out:

• The history of the Aboriginal Legal Service
• Why jail isn’t the best place for an offender looking to improve their life
• How the Voice to Parliament, if passed, may work as a conduit between governments and services like the ALS

Disclaimer 

While this podcast is aimed to be informative, it is not intended to be a substitute for legal advice. You should see a solicitor for complete advice that relates directly to your situation.

For more information:

Find out more about Indigenous Issues and the Law here.

Or head to the Aboriginal Legal Service.

If you have a legal issue and live in regional NSW you can find out more at Catherine Henry Lawyers, or call the team on 1800 874 949.