As the End of Financial Year (EOFY) approaches, our local family law firm is proud to announce its support for the Women's Legal Centre ACT. This year, our firm are committed to matching all donations made to the Centre during June and July, up to $10,000. This generous initiative means that community contributions will be doubled, potentially raising up to $20,000 to support the Centre’s crucial operations in 2024-25.

Elena Rosenman, CEO of the Women’s Legal Centre, highlighted the critical need for these funds, stating, 'The situation for funding legal assistance has never been more precarious than it is today. Like many community and frontline services, we were dismayed by last month’s Federal Budget, which failed to make any meaningful investment in addressing gender-based violence. Separation is a time of heightened risk for women and children. Specialist legal assistance is critical to supporting women leaving violent relationships, ensuring safe arrangements for childcare, and facilitating a fair division of assets post-separation.'

Debra Parker, Director of Parker Coles Curtis, along with co-Directors Catherine Coles and Jacquelyn Curtis, expressed the firm's commitment to supporting the Centre.

'As specialist family law practitioners in the Canberra community, we understand the value of legal assistance. The Centre is a crucial part of our community, making sure that all women can access legal advice when they need it. We are proud to support the Centre this EOFY,' Debra said.

The Women's Legal Centre is seeking support from the Canberra community amidst a national crisis of violence against women and children. Over the past year, there has been a nearly 30% increase in intimate partner homicides in Australia. Most of the Centre’s clients have no or very low incomes and often lack access to funds as they escape domestic violence. Donations will go directly to assisting clients, including through the Centre’s legal disbursement and brokerage funds. Legal disbursement funds are used to cover the costs of lodging legal documents, such as applications for divorce, filing or serving fees, translations of legal documents, and expert reports. Brokerage funds cover essential items such as emergency food and groceries, baby supplies, and transport costs.

Parker Coles Curtis and the Women’s Legal Centre urge all Canberrans who want to support those affected by domestic and family violence to consider donating to the Centre this month. By doubling the impact of their contributions, the community can help ensure that more women and children receive the vital support they need during these challenging times. Together, we can make a significant difference and provide hope and safety for those in need.

To donate and have your contribution matched, visit the Women's Legal Centre donation page here

For more information or assistance, contact the Women's Legal Centre on 02 6257 4377.

If you or someone you know needs immediate help, please call the Domestic Violence Crisis Service at 1-800-RESPECT (1-800-737-732), a 24-hour national sexual assault, domestic and family violence counseling service.