According to Community lawyers there has been a significant increase in the amount of work they do to prevent domestic violence with their casework increasing by 70% in the last five years.

Hugh de Kretser, Federation of Community Legal Centres, stated that there has been a massive increase in reports of family violence to police over recent years and this has placed pressure on the courts. He said that some community lawyers are seeing ten to twenty people a day and that women who flee family violence need significant support through the justice system.

Hugh de Kretser said that government needs to recognize this increased work load and provide additional support to Community Legal Centres in order to be able to continue providing legal services to domestic violence victims.

If you have been the victim of domestic violence or other serious crime contact Victims of Crime Compensation Victoria for free, prompt and professional assistance, advice and support on 1800 000 055 or complete our enquiry form at www.victimsofcrime.com.au

About the author