Fiona Simpson MP has announced that two local Community Legal Centres (CLCs) will receive grants from the Legal Practitioner Interest on Trust Accounts Fund (LPITAF) for the 2013/14 financial year.
Centacare in Maroochydore will receive $146,910 in funding and Suncoast Community Legal Service Inc will be granted a total of $210,138.
Ms Simpson said these local centres are just two of the 45 community legal centres and programs across the state to share in $36.5 million worth of State Government funding.
“The Government has a responsibility to ensure all Queenslanders have access to legal representation, counselling and support regardless of their circumstances,” Ms Simpson said.
“Community Legal Centres work tirelessly to make the often overwhelming task of dealing with the legal system, less intimidating for people.”
“This funding will greatly assist vulnerable constituents in the Maroochydore electorate,” she said.
“Based in Maroochydore, Suncoast Community Legal Service Inc offers quality legal advice, referral information and education completely free of charge to the greater Sunshine Coast Community.
“Services are delivered by volunteer lawyers from the local profession working in conjunction with volunteer receptionists and a minimal paid staff.
“I’m pleased that both Centacare and Suncoast Community Legal Service Inc will receive a much-needed financial boost in the 2013/14 financial year so that both centres can continue providing vital legal support to the people of the Sunshine Coast.”
