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Law reform submissions

Drawing on the experiences of its member centres, the Federation makes submissions to a range of reviews by government and law reform bodies. Use the facilities below to either conduct a search of the law reform submissions, or browse by category by selecting a category from the list.

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What's new

Listed below are the ten most recent law reform submissions to be uploaded.

Magistrates' Court Amendment (Mental Health List) Bill 2009 The Federation wrote to the Shadow Attorney-General, Robert Clark, supporting the Bill for its therapeutic jurisprudence stance. We believe that problem solving approaches like the proposed List are more likely to achieve offender rehabilitation and crime prevention, because they attempt to address the underlying causes of crime and to provide pathways to appropriate support and treatment.	Published (28-01-2010)	186kb

Submission to Scrutiny of Acts and Regulations Committee on the Severe Substance Dependence Treatment Bill 2009 The Federation believes that the Severe Substance Dependence Treatment Bill is incompatible with human rights recognised under the Victorian Charter. Our submission discusses research on the efficacy of compulsory treatment, and concludes that there is no robust evidence to justify the human rights restrictions proposed in the Bill.	Published (22-01-2010)	271kb

FCLC submission to Residential Tenancy Databases Consultation The Federation supports regulation of Residential Tenancy Databases, to ensure that they do not operate unfairly to exclude vulnerable people from the rental market.	Published (22-12-2009)	188kb

NACLC position on COAG National Legal Profession Reform This short document summarises the National Association of Community Legal Centre’s agreed position on a range of national legal profession reform issues currently being reviewed by COAG.	Published (22-12-2009)	81kb

Submission to Stage 1 Bail Reform Project The Federation urges for speedy implementation of the majority of the recommendations of the Victorian Law Reform Commission’s Review of the Bail Act, Final Report, 2007, as a step towards improving the bail system for the indigenous, vulnerable and disadvantaged communities that community legal centres work with.	Published (02-12-2009)	217kb

Comments on the Attorney-General’s Access to Justice report We discuss the need to increase funding for legal aid and CLC services in civil law; the importance of legal assistance in alternative dispute resolution; access to justice under the new national consumer credit laws and other matters.	Published (27-11-2009)	286kb

Submission on Parole Board’s exemption from the Charter of Human Rights and Responsibilities The Parole Board serves an important purpose, in overseeing prisoners’ gradual and supervised release into the community. A human rights framework would enhance the Board’s decision-making and provide an important safeguard for prisoners.	Published (25-11-2009)	238kb

Letters to Prime Minister and Commonwealth Attorney-General supporting a Human Rights Act for Australia The Federation urges the Prime Minister and the Commonwealth Attorney-General to lead and support the implementation of the recommendations of the National Human Rights Consultation Report, including especially, legislating for a federal Human Rights Act.	Published (23-11-2009)	195kb

Submission on the Summary Offences & Control of Weapons Bill 2009 A submission to the Scrutiny of Acts and Regulations Committee. The Federation opposes the Summary Offences and Control of Weapons Acts Amendment Bill 2009. The Bill’s “move on” and police search powers are inconsistent with fundamental human rights.	Published (20-11-2009)	243kb

Submission to the Commonwealth Attorney-General’s Department in response to the National Security Legislation Discussion Paper on Proposed Amendments The Federation in conjunction with the National Association of Community Legal Centres seeks to provide responses to the Federal Government's counter terrorism reform proposals through the lens of the communities we work with who are affected by Australia's counterterrorism laws, policies and practices, both directly and indirectly.	Published (19-10-2009)	691kb

Access to justice

Joint letter to the Chief Justice on court fee waiver forms This letter argues for the establishment of a simplified and common fee waiver form across all Victorian courts and tribunals.	Published 17-12-2008	342kb

Submission to Parliament of Victoria Law Reform Committee Inquiry into Vexatious Litigants The Federation is concerned that there should not be a legislative over-reaction to the issue, especially given the risk that such legislation can be used to silence unpopular people and causes.	Published 07-07-2008	118kb

Submission to ADR Inquiry The Federation's submission addresses the question of where ADR may be appropriate and also identifies where ADR needs reform or is an inappropriate form of resolution.	Published 03-03-2008	203kb

Client Legal Privilege and Federal Investigatory Bodies The Federation submission to the Australian Law Reform Commission inquiry argues client-legal privilege is essential to people obtaining accurate legal advice. The submissions provides detail with regards the investigation of terrorism offences and national security matters.	Published 04-06-2007	43kb

Client Legal Privilege and Federal Investigatory Bodies Submission The Federation submission to the ALRC inquiry argues client-legal privilege is essential to people obtaining accurate legal advice. The submission provides detail with regards to the investigation of terrorism offences and national security matters.	Published 04-06-2007	43kb

Submission to the Victorian Parliament Law Reform Committee’s Discussion Paper, Coroners Act (Vic) 1985 – July 2005 The Federation seeks changes to the Coroners Act (Vic) 1985 that expand the definitions of "reportable deaths" and deaths "in care" and "in custody" to ensure that deaths of vulnerable persons in a very broad range of circumstances come to the attention of the Coroner. We also seek to expand the preventative potential of the process by requiring al...	Published 04-07-2005	144kb

Language Services for Newly Arrived & Isolated Communities Language Services for Newly Arrived & Isolated Communities	Published 04-08-2003	351kb

Submission on Pro Bono Commitment Issues Paper This Federation submission to the Department of Justice considers the Government Legal Services Panel's Pro Bono Commitment Issues Paper. The federation argues that the proposed pro bono scheme may impede a clear focus on the need for the development of adequate levels of funding for Community Legal Centres and Legal Aid.	Published 02-12-2002	289kb

Growing Pro Bono Position Paper Following the recent government initiatives in pro bono policy, the Federation believes there is a clear need for Community Legal Centres to look at what opportunities these initiatives present as well as what threats. The adoption of a pro bono policy position will enable the Federation to lobby more effectively on pro bono issues.	Published 04-03-2002	450kb

Submission to the Legal Aid Inquiry Submission into the enquiry conducted by the Senate and Constitutional References Committee covering rationale and developments of VLA. Lengthy discussions on unmet legal need with comprehensive recommendations by the federation.	Published 04-11-1996	2.3mb

Who Can Sue? A Review of the Law of Standing PIAC response to ALRC Discussion Paper 61. Discussion on Public Interest Litigation and the changing role of government and the courts	Published 04-12-1995	781kb

Inquiry into Legal Aid and Access to Justice Access to justice and Legal Aid

Inquiry into the Right to Silence The presently considered debate around the removal of the right to silence is considered to be both unnecessary and dangerous to all members of society.

Justice for all Federation report into the impact of Legal Aid guidelines changes since March 1996

Re: Attorney General's Justice Statement (462.29 KByte) Attorney General's Justice statement looking at current criminal procedure and access to justice and proposed law reforms

Report on the Impact of Legal Aid Cuts The Federation discusses the unment legal need in the light of Legal Aid budget cuts. This report includes anechdotal evidence of the current shortfall in legal aid.

Response to the Implementation Advisory Group (IAG) Draft Report Response to the Implementation Advisory Group (IAG) Draft Report

Response to the Juries Bill 1999 The philosophy behind Community Legal Centres is not merely to provide legal advice, but to empower people so that they can also find ways of resolving their own problems in the future. Centres are dedicated to a preventative approach in solving clients problems and are actively involved in community development, education and law reform activities...

Review of the delivery of Legal Aid services This submission deals with equality and access and the legal aid commission of Victoria. In sum the contention of this submission is; funding certainty is very important to the commission, as it allows it to target problems and operate without having the constant worry about funding, and without putting valuable resources into obtaining its funding...

Reviewing Legal Aid Main points of oral submissions made to Committe reviewing Legal Aid discussing unment legal need, and quality of representation

Submission to the Inquiry into the Australian Legal Aid System Submission includes discussion on unment legal need, the inability to assess impact and includes anechdotal evidence and case studies

Victorian Legal Aid Guidelines and Fee Scales Discussion on unmet legal need of the community in both a state law and Commonwealth Law context. Other issues discussed in brief

Children & young people

Submission to VLRC Independent Persons September 2009 The Federation strongly supports legislative reform of section 464E of the Crimes Act which requires the presence of another adult in a police interview, where a young person is suspected of committing an offence. It is well documented that the presence of a trained support person is a necessary part of a humane, fair, just, age appropriate, effici...	Published 09-09-2009	326kb

Issue Paper 18: Speaking for Ourselves; Children and the Legal Process Issue paper which developed from the enquiry. See 'Response to Issue Paper 18..." for Federation	Published 07-11-2008	454kb

Response to Issue 18: Speaking for Ourselves; Children and the Legal Process Submission to Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission and Australian Law Reform Commission Inquiry	Published 07-11-2008	184kb

Submission of the Federation of Community Legal Centres (Vic) Inc to the Drugs and Crime Prevention Committee (March 2002) Submission prepared by Natalie Mikkelsen, Robyn Hamilton, Sophie Osborn and Debbie Kirkwood on behalf of the Children and Young People Working Group and ratified by the Federation of Community Legal Centres (Vic.) on 27 March 2002. For further information please contact Debbie Kirkwood, Policy Worker, Federation of Community Legal Centres (Vic.) (9...	Published 07-11-2008	46kb

Submission to the Department of Justice’s proposed Working with Children Bill This submission was prepared by members of the Children and Youth Issues Working Group in February 2005 in consultation with individual member centres including Youthlaw, Fitzroy Legal Service and Jobwatch, on behalf of the Federation of Community Legal Centres (Vic).	Published 07-02-2005	59kb

He that Goes a Borrowing goes a Sorrowing: A Report into Youth Debt This report was undertaken by Clinical Legal Education students enrolled in Law at La Trobe University for and on behalf of the West Heidelberg Community Legal Service and La Trobe Law.	Published 05-01-2004	318kb

Submission to the Victorian Youth Strategy The Federation strongly supports the development of a comprhensive Youth Strategy for Victoria. This strategy should provide cohesion and consistency to government initiatives, as well as providing leadership to the non-government sector and the broader community generally.	Published 02-04-2001	1.0mb

Children and the Legal Process A submission to the Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission and the Australian Law Reform Commission. An increadibly extensive submission discussing children from a range of cultural backgrounds in terms of a number of legal issues	Published 07-07-1997	24kb

Submission to the Joint Enquiry into Children and the Legal Process There is no doubt that the legal system fails children at many levels and that there is a consistent faliure to consult with and listen to the views of children. This submission is a response to the draft recommendations developed by the joint committee	Published 07-07-1997	607kb

Involving and Representing Children in Family Law Response of the Women and Children Working Group to the Family Law Council Discussion Paper	Published 01-07-1996	427kb

Child Protection in Victoria – The Federation’s Thirteen Steps for Reform The Federation has identified 13 key components we see as necessary for a robust and fair child protection system. The Federation’s Thirteen Steps for Reform will guide the Federation through the next steps in the review process, including responding to the Exposure Draft of the legislation.

Civil justice

Comments on the Attorney-General’s Access to Justice report We discuss the need to increase funding for legal aid and CLC services in civil law; the importance of legal assistance in alternative dispute resolution; access to justice under the new national consumer credit laws and other matters.	Published 27-11-2009	286kb

Submission on the review of the Insurance Industry's Code of Practice The Federation made a submission to the review of the insurance industry's Code of Practice. We highlighted the need for greater use of interpreters and more compassionate treatment of debtors experiencing hardship.	Published 01-07-2009	192kb

Submission to the National Alternative Dispute Resolution Advisory Council The Federation broadly supports greater use of ADR. However we argue that without sufficient safeguards and support mechanisms, compulsory ADR may have a chilling effect on litigation by CLC clients and other people on low incomes. We also emphasise the public interest in bringing certain matters to court, for full ventilation and deter...	Published 21-05-2009	218kb

Submission to Stalking Law Review This submission outlines the weaknesses in the current non-family violence intervention order system, and considers alternative proposals, including greater use of mediation.	Published 24-04-2009	96kb

Submission to Stalking Law Review Cover Letter	Published 24-04-2009	173kb

Second Civil Justice Draft Reforms The Federation emphasises that any case management scheme designed to expedite court processes and deter unnecessary litigation must not be at the expense of disadvantaged individuals, who are often unrepresented. The Federation urges the Commission to adopt the issue of Legal Aid funding for civil proceedings, and strongly supports the Commissions...	Published 03-09-2007	158kb

Draft Civil Justice Reform Proposals The Federation supports many of the proposals but notes that they centre on the court process, and our civil law clients do not necessarily go to court. The Federation therefore recommends that other barriers to civil justice be considered in Stage Two of the Review.	Published 02-07-2007	57kb

Response to the Parliamentary Law Reform Committee's Coroner's Act Final Report Community Legal Centres have a long history of representing families at Coronial Inquests. This experience provides the basis for comments in this submission that respond to some of the recommendations made by the committee.	Published 04-12-2006	43kb

Submission to the VLRC Civil Justice Review Community legal centres have historically and continue to provide advice and casework services across a broad range of civil law areas. This submission to the VLRC provides a picture of this work and opportunities for improving access to civil justice.	Published 04-12-2006	113kb

CLC administration

Submission to Implementation Advisory Group (IAG) on Location and Need Issues This report attempts to briefly highlight some issues about determining need.	Published 02-08-1999	506kb

Review of Commonwealth and State Community Legal Centre Funding A review of Commonwealth and State Community Legal Centre Funding	Published 03-05-1999	306kb

Consumers

Comments on the Attorney-General’s Access to Justice report We discuss the need to increase funding for legal aid and CLC services in civil law; the importance of legal assistance in alternative dispute resolution; access to justice under the new national consumer credit laws and other matters.	Published 27-11-2009	286kb

Submission re Australian Consumer Law The Federation's submission to the federal Treasury's discussion paper, released in February 2009, regarding a proposed Australian Consumer Law, incorporating the Trade Practices Act, product safety laws and best practice provisions from state and territory consumer protection laws.	Published 20-03-2009	202kb

Submission to the Senate Select Committee on the socio economic consequences of National Competition Policy Discussion on the Marketisation and National Competition policy, the role of government, consumers and the impact of a competition policy on CLC's. Includes case studies	Published 05-10-1998	827kb

Submission to the Inquiry into Commercial in Confidence and the Public Interest This submission attempts to put a perspective from the NGO sector on the use of commercial confidentiality as a barrier to open information and the public interest

Coroners & inquests

Letter to Department of Justice - draft Coroners Regulations The Federation proposed that in order to fulfil human rights obligations, the Coroners Regulations should spell out how the family's rights to participation in the investigation and inquest are to be realised.	Published 17-07-2009	227kb

Letter to Associate to the State Coroner - draft Coroners Court Rules The Federation proposed that in order to fulfil human rights obligations, the Coroners Court Rules should spell out how the family's rights to participation in the investigation and inquest are to be realised.	Published 16-07-2009	207kb

Letter on the Coroners Bill 2008 – Scope of the Coroners Court as a Public Authority The Federation wrote to the Victorian Attorney-General expressing our concern that the Coroners Bill 2008 creates uncertainty concerning the way in which the Coroners Court may be subject to the Victorian Human Rights Charter. This is important to clarify because issues of how inquests are conducted relate to the fundamental human right to life, an...	Published 01-12-2008	189kb

Letter to Legislative Assembly on the Coroners Bill 2008 The Federation wrote to the members of the Legislative Assembly of the Victorian Parliament to suggest amendments to the Coroners Bill 2008.	Published 10-11-2008	254kb

Submision responding to Victorian Parliament Law Reform Committee's Coroners Act 1985 - Final Report This submission highlights the recommendations contained within the Final Report that are of particular interest to the work of the Federation.	Published 01-12-2006	43kb

Submision responding to Victorian Parliament Law Reform Committee's Discussion Paper - Coroners Act (Vic) 1985 This submission seeks to highlight issues relevant to the Coroners Act (Vic) 1985 and the people and values the Federation represents.	Published 22-07-2005	144kb

Courts & tribunals

Submission to the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal - Part 1 The Federation made a submission to the 2009 review of the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal, in which it recommended several measures to improve the Tribunal's efficiency, consistency, transparency and accessibility.	Published 09-06-2009	287kb

Submission to the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal - Part 2 Part 2 of the Federation's submission to the 2009 review of the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal.	Published 09-06-2009	342kb

Letter on the Coroners Bill 2008 – Scope of the Coroners Court as a Public Authority The Federation wrote to the Victorian Attorney-General expressing our concern that the Coroners Bill 2008 creates uncertainty concerning the way in which the Coroners Court may be subject to the Victorian Human Rights Charter. This is important to clarify because issues of how inquests are conducted relate to the fundamental human right to life, an...	Published 01-12-2008	189kb

Submission on Amicus Curiae Application Submission of Public Interest Advocacy Centre who applied to appear as amicus curiae in the matter of Been and Ors v Williams in the NSW Supreme Court. Discussion of history or amicus curiae, problems and recommendations	Published 01-01-1996	347kb

Jury Service in Victoria The Federation is concerned that a number of 'Issues for Discussion' developed by VLRC disclose a trend towards moving trials before a judge alone.

Submission on Tribunals Increasingly people are finding themselves in a position where they will need to appear before tribunals because they are traditionally cheaper, speedier and more accessible than courts. The federation is concerned that suggestions in the Department of Justice paper on tribunals may detract from the accessibility of tribunals.

Crime

Magistrates' Court Amendment (Mental Health List) Bill 2009 The Federation wrote to the Shadow Attorney-General, Robert Clark, supporting the Bill for its therapeutic jurisprudence stance. We believe that problem solving approaches like the proposed List are more likely to achieve offender rehabilitation and crime prevention, because they attempt to address the underlying causes of crime and to provide path...	Published 28-01-2010	186kb

Submission to Stage 1 Bail Reform Project The Federation urges for speedy implementation of the majority of the recommendations of the Victorian Law Reform Commission’s Review of the Bail Act, Final Report, 2007, as a step towards improving the bail system for the indigenous, vulnerable and disadvantaged communities that community legal centres work with.	Published 02-12-2009	217kb

Submission to the Commonwealth Attorney-General’s Department in response to the National Security Legislation Discussion Paper on Proposed Amendments The Federation in conjunction with the National Association of Community Legal Centres seeks to provide responses to the Federal Government's counter terrorism reform proposals through the lens of the communities we work with who are affected by Australia's counterterrorism laws, policies and practices, both directly and indirectly.	Published 19-10-2009	691kb

Submission to VLRC Independent Persons September 2009 The Federation strongly supports legislative reform of section 464E of the Crimes Act which requires the presence of another adult in a police interview, where a young person is suspected of committing an offence. It is well documented that the presence of a trained support person is a necessary part of a humane, fair, just, age appropriate, effici...	Published 09-09-2009	326kb

Graffiti Prevention The Federation does not support the introduction of the Graffiti Prevention Bill, which is designed to`get tough` on offenders, rather than provide effective graffitti prevention initiatives.	Published 05-02-2007	73kb

Review of the Listing Provisions of the Criminal Code Act 1995 The Federation believes that the listing provisions of the Code should be repealed in their entirety because they are fundamentally inconsistent with aspirations for a democratic society and compromise fundamental principles of the criminal law.	Published 05-02-2007	91kb

The Merits of Post-sentence Supervision and Detention of High Risk Sex Offenders While the Federation supports measures that can effectively protect the community from sex offenders, it believes indefinite sentences for high-risk offenders may be disproportionate to the crimes committed, and hence a breach of rights.	Published 05-02-2007	23kb

Inquiry into the Crimes Amendment (Bail and Sentencing) Bill 2006 - VALS Submission VALS submission to the Senate Legal and Constitutional Affairs Committee in response to the Inquiry into the Crimes Amendment (Bail and Sentencing) Bill 2006.	Published 04-09-2006	183kb

Response to the Sentencing Advisory Council's Interim Report 2005 Reiterating the Federation's earlier submission call for the retention of suspended sentenced as a sentencing order in Victoria	Published 04-09-2006	76kb

Submission to the Sentencing Advisory Council Inquiry into Suspended Sentences The Federation strongly supports the retention of suspended sentences as a sentencing option and amendments to sections 31(5)(a), 31(5A) and 31(6) of the Sentencing Act 1991 (Vic) to restore court discretion with regard to breaches. We oppose any changes to suspended sentences and the sentencing regime that may result in a further increase in incar...	Published 06-06-2005	79kb

Improving the Criminal Justice Response to Sexual Assault The Federation continues to support reforms to legal processes and practises that seek to overcome the revictimisation suffered by victims of sexual offences seeking access to justice. Aswell as commenting on proposed changes to the criminal justice system, this submission urges the government to take further steps to improve the victim compensatio...	Published 02-05-2005	22kb

Submission to VLRC Sexual Offences Interim Report Federation of Community Legal Centre's Sexual Offences Interim Report	Published 08-09-2003	641kb

Review of the Vagrancy Act 1966 Review of the Vagrancy Act 1966	Published 06-05-2002	195kb

Review of the Custodial Community Permit Program The corrections working group believes that the community Custodial Permit Program has the potential to adequately prepare individuals for re-entry into the community after a term of imprisonment. Whilst the main reasons for offending in the first place can only be addressed by the offender themselves, the impact of release may be alleviated by ens...	Published 01-04-2002	382kb

Use of tear Gas on a Woman at Dame Phyllis Frost Centre (DPFC) We write with urgency and condemnation in relation to the incident at Dame Phyllis Frost Centre (DPFC) in which the Security and Emergency Services Group (SESG) tear-gassed a lone woman in a cell who was threatening self-harm. This incident underscores the dangers of retaining an SESG unit at the women's prison; and demands immediate and force...	Published 01-04-2002	100kb

Discussion Paper on Sexual Offences: Law and Procedure Regardless of legislative reform, in practice judges have the power and capacity to interpret and apply laws in ways that may not be in accordance with the legislation. Judges, barristers, and others legal professionals and juries can not be expected simply to know and understand sexual assault. Each of these groups need to be educated and trained ...	Published 04-02-2002	361kb

Draft Recommendation Paper on the Failure to Appear in Court in Response to Bail The Federation strongly supports the reccommendation to repeal section 4(2)(c) of the Bail Act 1977.Presently where a person has been charged with a criminal offence, released on bail for the period until their court hearing and then fails to appear, the Bail Act provides that the person can only be released again on bail if they satisfy the court ...	Published 04-02-2002	123kb

Response to Control of Weapons Legislation Effectiveness Review Recent legislative developments in New South Wales illustrate the potential problems for young people where police search powers are expanded, to allow police greater discretion to "reasonably" conduct a search for a knife, based on the locality of the incident. Given existing concerns regarding the relationship between police and young people, and...	Published 05-04-1999	435kb

Submission on Fatal Offences Against a Person Response to MCCOC discussion paper. Outlines Federation recommendations.	Published 03-08-1998	50kb

Draft Submission on Sentencing There is a continued pressure on individuals to plead guilty by legal aid and the courts who may in fact have a valid defence or be innocent of certain charges.	Published 04-11-1996	685kb

Corrections and Sentencing Acts [Home Detention Bill (2003)] Corrections and Sentencing Acts [Home Detention Bill (2003)]

Response to the Recommendations of the VLRC Sexual offences Interim Report Response to the Recommendations of the VLRC Sexual offences Interim Report

Submission to Premier's Drug Advisory Council 1996 Discussion on the issues created by the prohibition policies and the shortfalls faced in rehabilitation, detoxification, education and counselling programs

Democracy

Submission to the Citizenship Taskforce, DIMA Based on our experience of working with migrant and refugee communities, the Federation does not support the introduction of formal citizenship testing in Australia. This submission outlines our reasons.	Published 06-11-2006	40kb

Inquiry into Administrative Decisions (Effect of International Instruments) Bill 1997 Discussions of effect of Bill in light of Teoh decision	Published 04-08-1997	392kb

Submission to the Classification Review Board Federation submission following the decision in 'Rabelais' Case (1995)	Published 01-07-1996	326kb

Submission on Charities Bill 2003 Charities Bill 2003 incorporating themes of access to justice and taxation

Disability

Letter re Parent Advocates The Federation wrote to the Minister of Education & Early Childhood Development concerning new guidelines which prevent parent advocates from speaking at Student Support Group meetings. The Federation believes that the guidelines are discriminatory because they mainly affect students with disabilities, who may not otherwise be able to have thei...	Published 20-05-2009	191kb

Submission Letter re Swanston St Redevelopment The Federation made a submission to the Swanston Street Redevelopment Consultation urging the abandonment of two of the options offered for consideration, on the basis that they discriminate against people with disabilities that affect their physical mobility.	Published 08-05-2009	179kb

Disability Access Report This report provides a snapshot of the current level of access to and participation within Community Legal Centres (CLCs). The report deals with the issues, barriers and solutions impacting on people with disabilities concerning their access to and participation in CLCs.

Discrimination

Submission to Inquiry into the Marriage Equality Amendment Bill 2009 The Federation welcomes the introduction of this Bill, which provides legal recognition for same sex marriages and therefore recognises the right of same sex couples to legal equality and to be free from discrimination.	Published 28-08-2009	194kb

Submission on Scrutiny of Acts and Regulations Committee Review of the Exceptions and Exemptions to the Equal Opportunity Act 1995 The Federation endorses Human Rights Law Resource Centre's submission that the exceptions in the Equal Opportunity Act should be repealed and replaced by a general balancing test from s 7(2) of the Charter of Human Rights and Responsibilities, supported by more detailed guidelines. As a less favoured alternative, we prioritise certain provisio...	Published 10-07-2009	386kb

Letter re Parent Advocates The Federation wrote to the Minister of Education & Early Childhood Development concerning new guidelines which prevent parent advocates from speaking at Student Support Group meetings. The Federation believes that the guidelines are discriminatory because they mainly affect students with disabilities, who may not otherwise be able to have thei...	Published 20-05-2009	191kb

Submission Letter re Swanston St Redevelopment The Federation made a submission to the Swanston Street Redevelopment Consultation urging the abandonment of two of the options offered for consideration, on the basis that they discriminate against people with disabilities that affect their physical mobility.	Published 08-05-2009	179kb

Equal Opportunity Options Paper Submission The Federation made a submission in the second stage of the Victorian Equal Opportunity Review. The Federation suggested that the Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commission should have key research and education functions, with community legal centres being resourced to play a central role in the provision of advice.	Published 05-05-2008	90kb

Review of the Exceptions and Exemptions in the Equal Opportunity Act 1995 (Victoria) This submission to the Department of Justice calls for significant reforms to the Equal Opportunity Act (1995). The Federation believes that in the present framework of the Act, none of the exceptions are reasonable limitations on the right to equality.	Published 07-04-2008	138kb

Victorian Attorney-General’s Independent Review of the Equal Opportunity Act 1995 (Vic) The Federation believes that significant improvements must be made to the Equal Opportunity Act in order to prevent discrimination and offer timely and appropriate redress to victims. These changes must include a closer relationship between equal opportunity and the Human Rights Charter frameworks, reformed legal definitions, and an enhanced capaci...	Published 07-01-2008	232kb

Submission to the Principal Legal Officer, AG's department, Civil Justice Division The federation congratulates the government on its commitment to "tak(ing) seriously allegations of discrimination and condemn(ing) discrimination in all its forms". We also welcome the governments commitment to developing age discrimination legislation...	Published 04-02-2002	497kb

Drugs

Submission to Scrutiny of Acts and Regulations Committee on the Severe Substance Dependence Treatment Bill 2009 The Federation believes that the Severe Substance Dependence Treatment Bill is incompatible with human rights recognised under the Victorian Charter. Our submission discusses research on the efficacy of compulsory treatment, and concludes that there is no robust evidence to justify the human rights restrictions proposed in the Bill.	Published 22-01-2010	271kb

Inhalation of Volatile Substances In response to volatile substance abuse (VSA), in particular, abuse by young people and children, the Federation of Community Legal Centres advocates (non-police) protective intervention and well resourced on-going support services for children and young people affected by VSA.	Published 04-03-2002	400kb

Submission to the Drug Policy Expert Committee The concept of harm minimisation is widely accepted as an appropriate guiding principle in the formation of drug policy. The Federation supports this goal, but argues that within the framework of harm minimisation, it is crucial that the committee does not restrict its scope to the minimisation of health related harms. The Committee should not igno...	Published 06-12-1999	821kb

Family

Submission to Inquiry into the Marriage Equality Amendment Bill 2009 The Federation welcomes the introduction of this Bill, which provides legal recognition for same sex marriages and therefore recognises the right of same sex couples to legal equality and to be free from discrimination.	Published 28-08-2009	194kb

Victorian Family Violence Justice Reform Campaign – Comments on Draft Family Violence Bill Draft Family Violence Bill, feedback as a member of the Victorian Family Violence Justice Reform Campaign.	Published 05-05-2008	93kb

Victorian Family Violence Justice Reform Campaign – Letter on Draft Family Violence Bill As part of the second consultation process on the draft Family Violence Bill, the Campaign congratulates the Department of Justice and the Victorian Government on the significant reforms embodied in the draft. The Campaign suggests further improvements to the carers’ provisions, and stresses the need for education and training of professional...	Published 05-05-2008	134kb

Draft Family Violence Bill The Federation recommends that the Bill be amended so that all significant carer relationships are potentially covered by the Bill. The Federation argues that to exclude carer relationships simply because they are paid or involve formal arrangements breaches the human rights of persons who are dependent on those carers.	Published 10-10-2007	198kb

Draft Family Violence Bill, submission as a member of the Victorian Family Violence Justice Reform Campaign The Campaign congratulates the Government on most aspects of the draft Bill, but recommends some significant changes. These include: the addition of Guiding Principles; the inclusion of domestic violence in the definition of family violence; the inclusion of carer relationships as relationships potentially covered by the Bill, whether those relatio...	Published 08-10-2007	647kb

Response to the VLRC's Review of Family Violence Laws needed to improve our family violence laws. It is the result of a partnership with almost 20 community legal centres, the law firm Blake Dawson Waldron, Federation staff and volunteers.	Published 06-03-2006	265kb

Submission to Cth AG's Department on the Government’s Discussion Paper 'A New Approach to the Family Law System' Comments on the Australian Government’s Discussion Paper “A New Approach to the Family Law System – Implementation of Reforms – 10th November 2004”	Published 02-01-2006	41kb

Submission to the HOR's Review of Exposure Draft of the Family Law Amendment The Federation endorses the recommendations contained in the National Network of Women’s Legal Services submission. The Federation is concerned that the Exposure Draft places at risk the fundamental principle in our family law system that the best interests of the child are the paramount consideration. We are also concerned that alternative d...	Published 04-07-2005	47kb

West Heidelberg CLS: Review of Intervention Orders This report was undertaken by Clinical Legal Education students enrolled in Law at La Trobe University for and on behalf of the West Heidelberg Community Legal Service and La Trobe Law.	Published 02-02-2004	314kb

Inquiry into the Presumption of Joint Custody Inquiry into the presumption of joint custody	Published 04-08-2003	333kb

ADR - Its role in Federal Dispute Resolution Submission discusses ADR with regard to Family Dispute Settlement. Refers to Federation Sumission 'Rethinking Family Law Proceedings'.	Published 03-08-1998	695kb

Superannuation and Family Law It is crucial that an equitable and consistent manner of dealing with superannuation be developed for parties dividing superannuation interests in a separation	Published 06-07-1998	214kb

Rethinking Family Law Proceedings Discussion of the problems and information needs arising out of the current family litigation procedures. Examination of suggested reforms to Family Law Proceedings	Published 02-02-1998	1.0mb

Delivery of Primary Dispute Resolution Services in Family Law Submission is response to the Attorney-General's Discussion Paper prepared by the Violence Against Women and Children Working Group	Published 03-11-1997	217kb

Family Violence and Family Law Act Review Prepared by the Violence Against Women and Children Working Group of the Federation of Community Legal Centres (Vic.). Endorsed February 1998.

Same Sex Relationships and the Law Discussion on current Equal Opportunity Act and options for recognition of same sex relationships in law

Sumbsission of Women's Legal Service on Family Law Amendment Bill 1999 An example of what happens when women lack the whole financial picture is sexually transmitted debt, which financial counsellors see an increasing amount of, where women are persuaded to put their names to loans generated by, and in the interests of their partner.

Fines

Submission on Proposed Expansion of the Infringement System The Federation does not support expansion of Victoria’s infringement system to include more complex summary offences until the infringement system is proven to be able to address the complex needs of CLC clients.	Published 07-05-2007	44kb

Disadvantages and Fines: The enforcement of Unpaid Fines Against Financially and Socially Disadvantaged People Submission regarding the enforcement of unpaid fines against financially and socially disadvantaged people	Published 04-08-2003	622kb

Report on Outstanding Fines and Unexecuted Warrants [P]eople who don't pay their fines are not all avoiding payment ... many just cannot pay	Published 02-03-1998	180kb

West Heidelberg CLS: Review of PERIN system of Fine Enforcement (2004) This report was undertaken by Clinical Legal Education students enrolled in Law at La Trobe University for and on behalf of the West Heidelberg Community Legal Service and La Trobe Law.

Human rights

Submission on Parole Board’s exemption from the Charter of Human Rights and Responsibilities The Parole Board serves an important purpose, in overseeing prisoners’ gradual and supervised release into the community. A human rights framework would enhance the Board’s decision-making and provide an important safeguard for prisoners.	Published 25-11-2009	238kb

Letters to Prime Minister and Commonwealth Attorney-General supporting a Human Rights Act for Australia The Federation urges the Prime Minister and the Commonwealth Attorney-General to lead and support the implementation of the recommendations of the National Human Rights Consultation Report, including especially, legislating for a federal Human Rights Act.	Published 23-11-2009	195kb

Submission on the Summary Offences & Control of Weapons Bill 2009 A submission to the Scrutiny of Acts and Regulations Committee. The Federation opposes the Summary Offences and Control of Weapons Acts Amendment Bill 2009. The Bill’s “move on” and police search powers are inconsistent with fundamental human rights.	Published 20-11-2009	243kb

Submission to the Commonwealth Attorney-General’s Department in response to the National Security Legislation Discussion Paper on Proposed Amendments The Federation in conjunction with the National Association of Community Legal Centres seeks to provide responses to the Federal Government's counter terrorism reform proposals through the lens of the communities we work with who are affected by Australia's counterterrorism laws, policies and practices, both directly and indirectly.	Published 19-10-2009	691kb

Submission to the Parliamentary Joint Committee on Intelligence and Security Review of the Relisting of the Hamas’ Izz al-Din al-Qassam Brigades, Kurdistan Workers Party, Lashkar-e-Tayyiba and Palestinian Islamic Jihad The Federation maintains our concerns about the listing provisions contained in Division 102 of Schedule 1 of the Commonwealth Criminal Code Act 1995. In this case we urge the Committee to recommend disallowance of the Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK) as a Terrorist Organisation and articulate our concerns about the re-listing as terrorist organi...	Published 12-10-2009	391kb

Submission to Senate Committee on Anti-terror Law Reforms Bill September 2009 The Federation strongly supports the Anti-Terrorism Laws Reform Bill 2009 (hereafter referred to simply as The Bill). The Bill is the first step in addressing some of the communities' deeply held concerns about Australia's counter-terrorism response since September 2001 and should be supported by all in the Federal Parliament who seek to ...	Published 09-09-2009	379kb

Submission to VLRC Independent Persons September 2009 The Federation strongly supports legislative reform of section 464E of the Crimes Act which requires the presence of another adult in a police interview, where a young person is suspected of committing an offence. It is well documented that the presence of a trained support person is a necessary part of a humane, fair, just, age appropriate, effici...	Published 09-09-2009	326kb

Submission on Scrutiny of Acts and Regulations Committee Review of the Exceptions and Exemptions to the Equal Opportunity Act 1995 The Federation endorses Human Rights Law Resource Centre's submission that the exceptions in the Equal Opportunity Act should be repealed and replaced by a general balancing test from s 7(2) of the Charter of Human Rights and Responsibilities, supported by more detailed guidelines. As a less favoured alternative, we prioritise certain provisio...	Published 10-07-2009	386kb

Response to National Human Rights Consultation June 2009 This submission outlines the need for a federal Human Rights Act. Present approaches to human rights protection are neither effective nor equitable. Protection and promotion of human rights requires a legislative dialogue model of human rights which offers accessible redress for those whose rights have been violated.	Published 15-06-2009	413kb

Submission on the Draft Model Spent Convictions Bill This submission argues for effective protection against discrimination on the grounds of an irrelevant criminal record, stopping the release of non-convictions on criminal record checks and laws that prohibit trading in criminal record information without an individual's consent.	Published 09-02-2009	288kb

Review of the Exceptions and Exemptions in the Equal Opportunity Act 1995 (Victoria) This submission to the Department of Justice calls for significant reforms to the Equal Opportunity Act (1995). The Federation believes that in the present framework of the Act, none of the exceptions are reasonable limitations on the right to equality.	Published 07-04-2008	138kb

Doing Justice: Bill of Rights The Federation has begun an ongoing series, ‘Doing Justice: The Quick Guide to Justice Policy Issues’. This first guide explains why Australia needs a federal Bill of Human Rights.	Published 10-11-2007	154kb

Human Rights Observer Team Final Report: G20 Protests The Federation's report on the G20 protests November 17-19, 2006, in Melbourne. This report critically examines the largest and most public policing operation in Victoria since the protests against the World Economic Forum (WEF) in September 2000.	Published 07-11-2006	495kb

Proposed Amendments to the Equal Opportunity Act The Federation strongly measures that address institutional and systemic barriers to opportunity and to the advancement of human rights in Victoria. The Federation acknowledges that there are limitations to the impact that legal processes can have on addressing the causes and effects of poverty. The continued expanding gap between rich and poor in ...	Published 03-07-2006	42kb

Feedback to the Human Rights Consultation Committee's Final Report The Federation welcomes the Committee's recommendation of a Human Rights Charter for Victoria and we acknowledge and commend the Bracks' Government's commitment to the implementation of such a Charter.	Published 02-01-2006	74kb

Response to Discrimination in Employment on the Basis of Criminal Record Discussion Paper This February 2005 response supports submissions and recommendations made by Fitzroy Legal Service, Jobwatch, and Public Interest Law Clearinghouse.	Published 07-02-2005	39kb

Submission on A-G's Proposal to Prohibit Discrimination against the Homeless and Unemployed The Federation supports increased protections of human rights, including the right to be free from discrimination. We wholeheartedly support the proposed amendment. If enacted, this proposal will assist to overcome discrimination against individuals in the community by providing an opportunity for redress. Furthermore, the proposed amendment is a s...	Published 07-02-2005	48kb

Response to Australian Human Rights Commission Legislation Bill 2003 FCLC Response to the Human Rights Commission Legislation Bill 2003	Published 07-04-2003	211kb

Response to Human Rights Ammendment Bill 1996 The bill proposes that contested discrimination matters will be heard by the Federal Court and not HREOC. The federation is concerned about the issue of access to the Federal Court and is writing to inform you of our observations derived from our position within the community	Published 04-08-1997	200kb

Submission on Human Rights Legislation Ammendment Bill 1997 Discussion of Bill, the sorts of people that are complainants before the HREOC and the Bill's impact on CLC's	Published 03-03-1997	456kb

Open Letter to The Prime Minister regarding upcoming national consultation The AHRG welcomes the upcoming national public consultation on the legal recognition and protection of humand rights in Australia, but stresses the need for an open and fair process.

Right Off: The Attack on Human Rights In Australia (2002) This report documents the way in which rights are "off" the current government agenda, and have been "off" from the early 1990s onwards. The report discusses treaty body reports and current human rights violations in relation to the six major human rights treaties to which Australia is a party.

Submission to Human Rights Consultation Committee in Response to 'Have Your Say About Human Rights in Victoria' (August 2005) The Federation strongly supports the adoption of a Charter of Human Rights for Victoria, incorporating economic, social and cultural rights and freedoms as well as civil and political rights and freedoms. The Charter should first be passed as legislation and later entrenched in the Constitution. The Federation urges the Committee to fully resource ...

Law reform submissions

Submission to Senate Committee on Anti-terror Law Reforms Bill September 2009 The Federation strongly supports the Anti-Terrorism Laws Reform Bill 2009 (hereafter referred to simply as The Bill). The Bill is the first step in addressing some of the communities' deeply held concerns about Australia's counter-terrorism response since September 2001 and should be supported by all in the Federal Parliament who seek to ...	Published 09-09-2009	379kb

Submission to VLRC Independent Persons September 2009 The Federation strongly supports legislative reform of section 464E of the Crimes Act which requires the presence of another adult in a police interview, where a young person is suspected of committing an offence. It is well documented that the presence of a trained support person is a necessary part of a humane, fair, just, age appropriate, effici...	Published 09-09-2009	326kb

Mental health

Magistrates' Court Amendment (Mental Health List) Bill 2009 The Federation wrote to the Shadow Attorney-General, Robert Clark, supporting the Bill for its therapeutic jurisprudence stance. We believe that problem solving approaches like the proposed List are more likely to achieve offender rehabilitation and crime prevention, because they attempt to address the underlying causes of crime and to provide path...	Published 28-01-2010	186kb

Submission Letter re Review of the Mental Health Act 1986 The Federation made a submission to the Department of Human Services Review of the Mental Health Act 1986, endorsing the views of our member centres Mental Health Legal Centre, PILCH (Homeless Persons Legal Clinic) and Human Rights Law Resource Centre, that substantial legislative and policy reform is required, particularly in the context of the Vi...	Published 06-03-2009	191kb

Mentally Ill Offenders and the Criminal Justice System This report was undertaken by Clinical Legal Education students enrolled in Law at La Trobe University for and on behalf of the West Heidelberg Community Legal Service and La Trobe Law.	Published 05-07-2004	420kb

Migration

Doing Justice: Asylum Seekers The second guide in the ‘Doing Justice: The Quick Guide to Justice Policy Issues’ series suggests various legal and policy changes that are needed for asylum seekers in Australia to be treated more fairly.	Published 10-11-2007	139kb

Submission on Inquiry into the Provisions of the Migration Amendment (Designated Unauthorised Arrivals) The Federation wishes to record its serious objections to the Bill. Unauthorised asylum seekers will no longer be detained in Australia and under Australian law which fundamentally threatens detention standards, length of detention and accountability of those responsible for detention. The proposed laws in their present form, or any amended form wh...	Published 01-05-2006	38kb

Submission on Migration Legislation Ammendment Bill 2003 Submission to Senate Legal and Constitutional Affairs Committee on Migration Legislation Ammendment Bill

Money

Decriminalising Disadvantage: PILCH Submission into the Inquiry into the Vagrancy Act 1966 The Vagrancy Act as it currently stands clearly criminalises the homeless. It is an inherently flawed premise to punish people who survive in the public space by necessity rather than choice. Punitive responses to homelessness only serve to entrench feelings of hopelessness and disenfranchisement. The clinic submits that a more socially responsible...		Published 06-05-2002	1.4mb

Older persons

Supplementary submission to Inquiry into Powers of Attorney The Federation recommends that the Government should collaborate with the LIV and specialist CLCs to devise a new compulsory CPD unit, covering powers of attorney, assessment of capacity, supported decision making, advance directives and other issues relevant to older people and clients with limited capacity.	Published 19-10-2009	194kb

Submission to Inquiry into Powers of Attorney Powers of attorney should be simplified, and the Government should conduct a public education campaign to inform the general public about the various instruments. The Office of the Public Advocate should create a register of powers of attorney and conduct regular audits of the register to guard against elder abuse.	Published 24-08-2009	223kb

Submission on Older People and the Law The Federation recognises older people as one group in the community facing significant barriers in accessing legal services. This submission outlines CLC expertise in assisting this community.	Published 04-12-2006	103kb

Other law reform

FCLC submission to Residential Tenancy Databases Consultation The Federation supports regulation of Residential Tenancy Databases, to ensure that they do not operate unfairly to exclude vulnerable people from the rental market.	Published 22-12-2009	188kb

NACLC position on COAG National Legal Profession Reform This short document summarises the National Association of Community Legal Centre’s agreed position on a range of national legal profession reform issues currently being reviewed by COAG.	Published 22-12-2009	81kb

Vexatious Litigants Inquiry Submission The Federation made a submission to the Victorian Parliament Law Reform Committee Inquiry. The Federation is concerned that there should not be a legislative over-reaction to the issue, especially given the risk that such legislation can be used to silence unpopular people and causes.	Published 07-07-2008	118kb

Australian Law Reform Commission Review of Australian Privacy Law (DP 72) Community legal centre clients are often the most likely to have their privacy invaded, yet the least likely to be able to assert their human right to privacy. Accordingly the Federation supports most of the ALRC proposals for privacy law reform.	Published 20-12-2007	91kb

Making the Legal System More Responsive to Community: Report on the Impact of Victorian CLC Law Reform Initiatives This research report, produced by West Heidelberg Community Legal Service, highlights the value of the work CLCs have done over the last three decades in relation to law reform prompted by client experience.	Published 07-05-2007	929kb

Submission to the Australian Law Reform Commission on Standing In responding to the request by the Australian Law Reform Commission for preliminary imput into its inquiry on standing we seek to draw atention to an increasingly common development in the law, namely the removal of the right to judicial review of government decision making

Police issues

Submission to Stage 1 Bail Reform Project The Federation urges for speedy implementation of the majority of the recommendations of the Victorian Law Reform Commission’s Review of the Bail Act, Final Report, 2007, as a step towards improving the bail system for the indigenous, vulnerable and disadvantaged communities that community legal centres work with.	Published 02-12-2009	217kb

Submission on the Summary Offences & Control of Weapons Bill 2009 A submission to the Scrutiny of Acts and Regulations Committee. The Federation opposes the Summary Offences and Control of Weapons Acts Amendment Bill 2009. The Bill’s “move on” and police search powers are inconsistent with fundamental human rights.	Published 20-11-2009	243kb

Letter expressing concerns over Police Regulation Amendment Bill This letter expresses concerns over the limitation of state liability for wrongs committed by police officers. It also outlines concerns over limiting court access to evidence around police investigations into poor performance and misconduct.	Published 08-10-2009	478kb

Submission to VLRC Independent Persons September 2009 The Federation strongly supports legislative reform of section 464E of the Crimes Act which requires the presence of another adult in a police interview, where a young person is suspected of committing an offence. It is well documented that the presence of a trained support person is a necessary part of a humane, fair, just, age appropriate, effici...	Published 09-09-2009	326kb

Letter to Office of Police Integrity re Tyler Cassidy Investigation The Federation wrote to the Office of Police Integrity urging them to undertake an independent investigation into the fatal shooting by police of Tyler Cassidy in particular given the human rights obligations under the Charter of Human Rights and Responsibilities Act 2006.	Published 12-05-2009	213kb

Joint letter to MPs on vicarious liability for police misconduct This letter argues for amendments to the Police Major Crime Bill to ensure that the State is liable for wrongs committed by police officers in the same way an employer is liable for wrongs committed by their employees.	Published 06-10-2008	293kb

Reform to the Vicarious Liability of Victoria Police for Wrongs Committed by Police Officers A submission to the Victorian Minister for Police and Emergency Services. The submission urges amendment of the Police Regulation Act1958 (Vic) so that the State is liable for all legal wrongs committed by Victorian police officers in the execution or purported execution of their duties. This would bring Victoria into line with most ...	Published 02-06-2008	215kb

State Liability for Police Misconduct Submission The Federation’s Police Issues Working Group made a submission to the Victorian Minister for Police and Emergency Services. The submission urges amendment of the Police Regulation Act1958 (Vic) so that the State is liable for all legal wrongs committed by Victorian police officers in the execution or purported execution of their duties. This ...	Published 02-06-2008	215kb

Inquiry into the Police Discipline System Community legal centres work on a daily basis with communities that interact with Victoria Police. Given this work, the Federation takes a keen interest in ensuring that Victoria Police has the ongoing respect and support of the Victorian community.	Published 02-04-2007	70kb

Submission to Victoria Police Review of the Delivery of Policing Services V The Federation seeks a service model for Victoria Police that accords with fundamental human rights principles contained in the relevant international instruments and that delivers: Sworn and unsworn officers with highly developed personal and professional skills; Best practice Occupational Health and Safety policies and procedures which deal with ...	Published 04-07-2005	54kb

Submission to the Department of Justice`s Proposed Working with Children Bill (February 2005) The Federation`s submission seeks to balance the need to protect children from harm with the need to protect people with criminal records from unfair discrimination.

Victorians Under Siege? A Case for an Inquiry into the Victorian Police Examines developments in policing under a coalition government since its election (state) in 1992

Prisons

Submission on Parole Board’s exemption from the Charter of Human Rights and Responsibilities The Parole Board serves an important purpose, in overseeing prisoners’ gradual and supervised release into the community. A human rights framework would enhance the Board’s decision-making and provide an important safeguard for prisoners.	Published 25-11-2009	238kb

Submission on the review of the Corrections Regulations 1998 (Vic) This submission supports the submission of the Human Rights Law Resource Centre and argues for greater human rights protections around the use of strip searches and improved public reporting of prison issues.	Published 23-02-2009	107kb

Request for a Systemic Review of Discrimination Against Women in Prison The submission calls on the EOCV to initiate an investigation pursuant to sections 156 and 157 of the Equal Opportunity Act (Vic) 1995 into discrimination on the basis of gender/sex, race, ethnicity religion and cognitive impairment faced by women throughout the prison system.	Published 04-04-2005	327kb

Public space

Submission - Surveillance in Public Places - Response to consultation paper Surveillance in public places has a disproportionate impact on young people, the homeless, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders and other disadvantaged groups. It must be effectively regulated if we are to maintain accessible and egalitarian public spaces.	Published 24-07-2009	261kb

River Red Gum Forests Draft Proposals Paper The Federation supports the Paper’s recommendations for the creation or expansion of various National parks and other protected areas, including in particular the creation of Barmah National Park, which we believe should be administered and controlled under a joint management model.	Published 17-10-2007	49kb

Response to "A Good Night for All - Options for improving safety and amenity in inner city entertainment precincts" The Federation strongly opposes the introduction of police dispersal powers. The submission presents alternative proposals that seek to improve perceptions of and the actual safety of entertainment precincts and presents arguments as to why Closed Circuit Television programs are not an appropriate or effective means of crime deterrence or preventio...	Published 04-04-2005	84kb

Sentencing

Driving Whilst Disqualified or Suspended - Submission to Sentencing Advisory Council (May 2008) The Federation made a submission to the Sentencing Advisory Council. The Federation supports the restoration of judicial discretion in sentencing for driving whilst disqualified or suspended.		Published 18-07-2008	70kb

Social justice

Federation's Federal Justice Policy Platform 2007 The Federation’s 2007 Federal Justice Policy Platform outlines how we believe the federal justice system could be improved to better address the needs of the client groups that Victorian community legal centres represent.	Published 07-11-2008	201kb

Submission to the Attorney-General of Victoria Justice Statement 2008 The Federation's final submission to the Attorney-General’s Justice Statement 2008, presenting ideas which will hopefully influence the development of Victoria’s justice system in the years to come.	Published 05-05-2008	76kb

Federal Justice Policy Platform The Federation’s 2007 Federal Justice Policy Platform outlines how we believe the federal justice system could be improved to better address the needs of the client groups that Victorian community legal centres represent.	Published 10-11-2007	139kb

Victorian State Justice Policy Positions 2006 The Federation's State Justice Policy Positions provide a snapshot of the Federation’s current policy work and an insight into the relevance of social justice and human rights for our communities.

Terrorism

Submission to the Commonwealth Attorney-General’s Department in response to the National Security Legislation Discussion Paper on Proposed Amendments The Federation in conjunction with the National Association of Community Legal Centres seeks to provide responses to the Federal Government's counter terrorism reform proposals through the lens of the communities we work with who are affected by Australia's counterterrorism laws, policies and practices, both directly and indirectly.	Published 19-10-2009	691kb

Submission to the Parliamentary Joint Committee on Intelligence and Security Review of the Relisting of the Hamas’ Izz al-Din al-Qassam Brigades, Kurdistan Workers Party, Lashkar-e-Tayyiba and Palestinian Islamic Jihad The Federation maintains our concerns about the listing provisions contained in Division 102 of Schedule 1 of the Commonwealth Criminal Code Act 1995. In this case we urge the Committee to recommend disallowance of the Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK) as a Terrorist Organisation and articulate our concerns about the re-listing as terrorist organi...	Published 12-10-2009	391kb

Submission to Senate Committee on Anti-terror Law Reforms Bill September 2009 The Federation strongly supports the Anti-Terrorism Laws Reform Bill 2009 (hereafter referred to simply as The Bill). The Bill is the first step in addressing some of the communities' deeply held concerns about Australia's counter-terrorism response since September 2001 and should be supported by all in the Federal Parliament who seek to ...	Published 09-09-2009	379kb

Submission on the Review of the Re-listing of Hizballah's External Security Organisation as a terrorist organisation under the Criminal Code Act 1995 The Federation made a written submission to the Parliamentary Joint Committee on Intelligence and Security Review of the Relisting of Hizballah's External Security Organisation.	Published 09-06-2009	379kb

Submission on the Review of the Re-listing of 6 Organisations as Terrorist Organisations under the Criminal Code Act 1995 The Federation made written and oral submissions to the Parliamentary Joint Committee on Intelligence and Security Review of the Relisting of 6 organisations as terrorist organisations.	Published 04-05-2009	296kb

Joint letter to Robert McClelland on the Clarke Inquiry This letter argues that the mistreatment of Dr Mohamed Haneef highlights the need for reforms to anti-terror and visa laws.	Published 21-11-2008	367kb

Classification Review - Material that Advocates Terrorism The Federation does not support the proposal to amend the National Classification Code and refuse classification of material advocating terrorist acts.	Published 07-05-2007	104kb

Classification Review – Material that Advocates Terrorist Acts The Federation does not support the proposal to amend the National Classification Code and refuse classification of material advocating terrorist acts. The current Code has sufficient scope to deal with material inciting or promoting terrorist acts.	Published 07-05-2007	104kb

Response to the Recommendations of the Sheller Inquiry The Federation has a number of serious concerns about the current raft of anti-terrorism legislation. We believe the various security Acts relating to terrorism should be repealed, and alternative amendments made to these Acts.	Published 03-07-2006	111kb

Submission to the UN Special Rapporteur on Human Rights and Counter-Terrorism This submission explores the effect of counter-terrorism efforts on human rights in Australia.	Published 06-03-2006	271kb

Submission on Security Legislation Amendment (Terrorism) Act 2002 et al Comprehensive summary of the Federation's concerns with the federal security Acts relating to terrorism, including the Security Legislation Ammendment (Terrorism) Act 2002, Suppression of Financing of Terrorism Act 2002 and the Criminal Code Amendment (Terrorism) Act 2003.	Published 02-01-2006	145kb

Submission on the Defence Legislation Amendment (Aid to Civilian Authorities) Bill 2005 The Federation has a number of broad concerns about the possibile passage of the Defence Legislation Amendment (Aid to Civilian Authorities) Bill 2005.	Published 02-01-2006	74kb

Submission on the Listing of the Kurdistan Workers Party as a Terrorist Organisation under The Criminal Code Act 2004 The Federation opposes the listing of the Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK) as a terrorist organisation under the Criminal Code. The listing of an organisation has many significant consequences to its members, including: criminalising association with and support for its political goals; giving no credence to their need for self-defence in realising se...	Published 02-01-2006	210kb

Submission on the Terrorism (Community Protection) (Amendment) Bill 2005 The Federation is fundamentally opposed to the passage of the Terrorism (Community Protection) (Amendment) Bill 2005 due to a number of concerns, including the potential discrimination against the Muslim community, and the ability for police to detain non-suspects.	Published 02-01-2006	124kb

Submission on Anti Terrorism Bill (No. 2) 2005 (CTH) The Federation has a number of concerns with the impact of proposed Anti-Terrorism Bill (No. 2) 2005 (Cth). Not only has there been a lack of justification for this bill, but these proposals will disproportionally affect the Muslim community and there is a serious risk of adversely affecting human rights.	Published 07-11-2005	164kb

Submission on Classification of Terrorist Organisations Under the Criminal Code Act 2004 (3) The Federation remains seriously concerned with the proscription powers under the Criminal Code Act 2004. These powers breach important principles of our criminal law system and fundamental civil and political rights. While we do not support the activities of the four organisations whose listing status is under review, sufficient justification for ...	Published 01-08-2005	40kb

Inquiry into the Provisions of the National Security Information Legislation Amendment Bill 2005 The Federation argues that this Bill, if passed, would undermine the separation of powers doctrine as well as the open and accountable administration of justice. Further, it would limit fundamental rights of access to justice and civil compensation. In addressing threats to national security, governments must adhere to their international obligatio...	Published 04-04-2005	286kb

Submission on Classification of Terrorist Organisations Under the Criminal Code Act 2004 (1) While the Federation does not wish to comment on the organisations listed as being terrorist, we believe a rigorous approach should be taken in reviewing these organisations given the broad definitino of terrorist organisations, and the serious nature of the corresponding terrorist offences.	Published 04-01-2005	53kb

Response to Proposed Terrorism [Powers and Obligations] Bill The proposed amendments, which decrease human rights through increasing police powers and more broadly defining terrorism, are unnecessary. Protecting human rights, rather than eroding them, best minimises the risk of serious crime and terrorism.	Published 03-02-2003	259kb

Inquiry into the Security Legislation Amendment (Terrorism) Bill 2002 and Suppression of Financing of Terrorism Bill 2002 The Federation urges that the legislation not be passed by the Parliament as it violates fundamental democratic principals, rights and protections many of which were achieved through centuries of struggle by ordinary people.	Published 01-04-2002	322kb

Submission on ASIO's Special Powers relating to Terrorism Offences (March 2005) The Federation recommends that powers granted to ASIO, which expire on 23 July 2006, not be renewed as they threaten Australia`s democratic society and the basic human rights principles which define it.

Submission on Classification of Terrorist Organisations Under the Criminal Code Act 2004 (2) (April 2005) The Federation is concerned about the discriminatory application of the Criminal Code`s proscription power and its inconsistency with Australia's obligations in relation to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.

Welfare

Homelessness and the Right to Social Security Homelessness and the right to social security

Women

Valuing Parenthood: Options for Paid Maternity Leave Paid maternity allows pregnancy to become a natural and accepted extension of a woman's working life. The mere payment of maternity leave shall not mean the race has been run, continued education and reinforcement of the philsophy behind paid maternity leave is essential to make paid maternity leave genuinely acceptable by the government, empl...	Published 03-06-2002	664kb

Financial Abuse of Women in Intimate Partner Relationships: Report by Coburg-Brunswick CLFCC Financial abuse is a serious form of abuse that deprives women of sufficient financial resources to fulfil their basic needs. It is based around gendered issues of power, coercion and control and can cause a range of poor health outcomes for the women who experience it.

Workplace relations

Submission on Surveillance Devices (Workplace Privacy) Bill The Federation strongly supports the enactment of the Surveillance Devices (Workplace Privacy) Bill 2006. We believe that the right to privacy, as a fundamental human right recognised in international human rights instruments, should be protected. We agree with the Victorian Law Reform Commission that workers’ privacy is not adequately protec...	Published 03-07-2006	18kb

Submission on Workplace Relations Bill Submission of the Federation to the Senate Committee in relation to the Workplace Relations Bill	Published 01-07-1996	811kb

Submission to Senate Inquiry into the Workplace Relations Bill CLC's have noticed a significant increase of workplace violence and sexual harassment. High unemployment has led to many workers feeling they cannot fully exercise their industrial rights. These problems are compounded by inadequate Social Security provisions and allowances.

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