Coffs Harbour is an area that, until now, has not been serviced by any community legal centre. RLC solicitors will now hold appointments via webcam on Wednesday evenings, connecting with clients using computers at the Coffs Harbour Neighbourhood Centre and with clients using their home computers. Residents of Coffs will be able to receive advice on police and government complaints; credit, debt and consumer complaints; employment matters and discrimination.
The expanded service was launched on 5 December in Coffs Harbour by Jenni Eakins, Director of Community Development at Coffs Harbour City Council. The service is part of the Federal Government’s push to promote greater access to legal services in regional Australia.
RLC solicitor and coordinator of the Regional Legal Assistance Program Kate Gauld said, “As the oldest community legal centre in New South Wales, our top priority has always been assisting people to assert their rights and access justice. We’re thrilled to be working with the Neighbourhood Centre and the people of Coffs to do just that.”
Coffs Harbour Neighbourhood Centre Manager Anna Gleeson commented, “From what we see in the community, there is a real need for free and accessible legal advice here in Coffs. While the local services provide invaluable assistance, there’s always a constant demand for more. We’re very excited to be using this technology to help reach more people and address their needs.”
