Jump to Share article Share to Facebook Share to Twitter Share to LinkedIn Email Share link via email Jump to heading The Albanese Government’s investment, aimed at providing resources for legal assistance to support asylum seekers throughout the onshore protection visa assessment process, has finally come into effect. This long-overdue funding provides Circle Green Community Legal an opportunity to expand our capacity to assist vulnerable individuals going through the appeals processes in the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT) and Federal courts. Supporting Through Specialist Legal Assistance Recognising Circle Green as the Western Australian leading specialist community legal centre for immigration services, particularly for asylum seekers needing our protection visa services, the Department of Justice has allocated this short-term funding to help address this disadvantaged cohort with their complex legal matters. “Receiving this much-needed funding will allow specialist refugee legal services like Circle Green to ensure asylum seekers are treated fairly and with respect through the multiple levels of the legal system in Australia the same as any person in Australia would expect to be treated,” says Principal Lawyer, Katy Welch “We will be able to provide highly disadvantaged people access to free legal advice and assistance. Our aim is to ensure asylum seekers are able to put forward their protection claims and be assessed an equitable system.” Prolonged delays in visa processing have had a profound impact leaving asylum seekers vulnerable to poverty and exploitation while awaiting resolution of their legal matters. Integrated Service Approach As we strive to expand our services in this specialist area of law, we will have an integrated service approach, by collaborating with communities, organisations, and legal professionals to assist individuals facing multiple acute disadvantages. If not addressed together these circumstances compound a person’s vulnerabilities and raise barriers in accessing justice, highlighting the urgency of our collective efforts. “Access to free professional specialist legal advice and assistance at all stages of the legal process, in this complex area of immigration refugee law is a key element of ensuring access to justice and equality for these marginalised groups.” Katy Welch said. Therefore, the allocation of investment towards supporting essential legal assistance services is a welcome development. These funds whilst currently short-term, will play a crucial role in providing asylum seekers with the necessary resources to navigate the merits and judicial review system. For more information or to request legal assistance, contact our team.
