MEMBER for Mount Gambier Troy Bell has hit out at the State Labor Government for not listening to industry experts concerns limited legal services could lead to serious consequences for regional communities.
Following the issue closely since the closure of the South East Community Legal Service earlier this year, Mr Bell said government funding cuts are affecting vulnerable people in the region.
“The State Government made many cuts to a number of services as they struggled to fund the recently opened Royal Adelaide Hospital,” he said.
“In this instance it is affecting those in our community who are vulnerable and who we should be helping.
“These are the very people who are unable to support themselves.”
The SECLS was one of two regional legal services forced into closure after not receiving funding.
Over its 17 years of operation, three full-time solicitors were employed with thousands of people receiving advice.
Following its closure at the end of June, cases were transferred to the Adelaide-based Southern Community Justice Centre, leaving many residents fearful they would not receive adequate support and advice.
However, the SCJC has promised to continue to provide that quality service and yesterday opened its new permanent office in the Blue Lake city to clients throughout the region.
With one full-time administration support worker and one solicitor, executive officer Catherine McMorrine said they are hoping to employ further staff in the future to keep up with demand.
“We would ideally like to have an opportunity to add to our team and this is something we will continue to canvas,” she said.
“At the moment, we are still in the process of arranging new phone lines for the premises, but once this has been done there will be a local contact for all appointments.”
However, she said the community was welcome to walk in during open office hours and make appointments and services could email intake@lccjc.com.au to refer clients.
The service is set to be reviewed at the end of the year to assess the level of assistance being provided.
The office is located at 8A Commerical Street West and is open for appointments on Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9am to 5pm.
Full-time solicitor Fei Su will travel to outreach locations at Naracoorte, Millicent, Penola and Bordertown on Wednesdays and Fridays.
Call 8384 5222 or 1300 850 650 to make an appointment.
