Queensland’s LGBTI Legal Service has welcomed news that it will receive government funding to continue operating for the next five years.
State Attorney-General Yvette D’Ath announced that $1.3 million has been allocated to the free community legal centre for the 2020–2025 period.
The certainty of extended funding comes as a welcome relief to the LGBTI Legal Service and will ensure that it can continue to provide legal services to the community at no cost.
The organisation said that there will always be a need for legal assistance for the rainbow community, and the five-year funding will be instrumental in assisting them to continue to provide timely, quality advocacy and support.
The COVID-19 pandemic crisis has meant that an increased number of people have been contacting the LGBTI Legal Service for help with legal issues, including domestic violence and safety at home, credit and debt, loss of employment, family contact arrangements, access to social security payments, and discrimination matters.
Matilda Alexander, President of the LGBTI Legal Service, said that the funding will help the organisation keep doing its crucial work.
“The funding will go part way to meeting the needs of our clients, and we will always endeavour to do more for the community,” said Alexander.
“It is encouraging that the service has been supported by the government to continue with our work.
“I have seen time and again when someone doesn’t receive the legal help in a prompt, professional, and holistic manner, associated social and legal issues often worsen.
“This includes complications with family law matters such as property settlement and arrangements for children, the involvement of child protection agencies, increase in consumer and social security debt, increased risk of homelessness and housing instability, discrimination, workplace issues, and job loss.”
If you need assistance or support, check our list of community resources for legal and other services.
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