The Aboriginal Legal Service (NSW/ACT) has been fighting for justice and equity for more than 50 years.
We are Australia's first free community legal service.
We were born out of a protest movement on the streets of Redfern, Gadigal and Eora land. From a single shopfront to offices in 21 cities and towns, we have grown into the primary legal service for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in NSW and the ACT.
Other communities across the country were inspired by our blueprint to create their own Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Legal Services, which now exist in every Australian state and territory.
Today we deliver free, culturally appropriate legal advice, representation, information and referrals for thousands of people each year, alongside critical community services.
Yet we are more than a direct service provider. As a peak body and proud Aboriginal community-controlled organisation, we speak out to combat injustice, reform laws, and demand accountability from public institutions. We are recognised nationally for our strong advocacy and law reform work. We are also a key partner in Closing The Gap.
Our values:
- We are proudly Aboriginal
- We are community focused
- We are fearless in our advocacy
- We are accountable
- We make a difference to create better futures
- We acknowledge and respect land, traditional values and cultural practices
Support and funding:
A majority of our services are funded by federal, state and territory governments, but this funding is not yet adequate to meet the high level of demand for legal and community services.
We are deeply grateful for the solidarity of supporters who fuel our fight for justice, in particular our ability to speak out publicly.
