The Launceston Community Legal Centre Inc (LCLC) is an Australian nonprofit organization established in 1986 dedicated to providing free legal advice and services primarily to vulnerable and financially disadvantaged individuals in the Launceston region of Tasmania. The organisation operates with government funding to offer accessible, professional legal assistance in a variety of areas, focusing on social justice and community support.[1][5]

Mission and Vision

LCLC’s core mission is to promote social justice by improving access to the legal system, particularly for those experiencing disadvantage or facing barriers due to financial hardship, disability, or other vulnerabilities. The centre prioritizes assisting individuals who fall under designated ‘priority client’ categories as outlined in national funding agreements.[2][5]

Services

The Launceston Community Legal Centre provides free legal information, advice, and representation in numerous legal matters, including but not limited to:

• Welfare rights
• Disability discrimination
• Employment and unfair dismissal
• Family law issues and support through partnership with family dispute resolution services
• Consumer and contract law
• Debt and financial hardship
• Boundary fences and restraint orders

The centre offers a 45-minute initial legal advice consultation, which may include guidance for clients seeking to self-litigate their cases. In addition, LCLC supports clients navigating family dispute resolution through a unique partnership with the Launceston Family Relationship Centre, focusing on resolving disputes with the best interests of the child as a priority, including drafting consent orders from parenting plans.[2][4]

Disability Discrimination Service

LCLC has a specialized Disability Discrimination Service which provides free legal assistance to people who believe they have been discriminated against due to disability. This service aligns with the centre’s broader commitment to advocating for marginalized groups within the community.[2]

Community Impact

The Launceston Community Legal Centre plays a crucial role in the Tasmanian legal aid landscape by addressing legal inequalities and supporting the most vulnerable populations. By offering free legal support and fostering dispute resolution outside the courts, the centre helps reduce barriers to justice and contributes to community well-being.[1][4][5]

Governance and Funding

LCLC operates as a registered charity and is funded primarily through government grants. It functions within the framework of Community Legal Centres Tasmania, a network of similar organisations providing legal services across the state.[3][4]

This summary outlines the key attributes and contributions of the Launceston Community Legal Centre Inc as a vital nonprofit legal service provider in Tasmania.

[1] https://www.lclc.net.au [2] https://www.clctas.org.au/centres/launceston/ [3] https://www.acnc.gov.au/charity/charities/656a6c8a-38af-e811-a962-000d3ad24a0d/profile [4] https://www.clctas.org.au [5] https://launcestoncentral.com.au/place/launceston-community-legal-cemtre