The ACJP Program is a volunteer-based community initiative supporting communities and individuals needing assistance in justice or legal related matters. The Panels take a diversionary approach in supporting preventative initiatives for community and individual participation as well as providing direct support through a ‘Call-Out’ service to individuals held in Police custody.

The primary roles of the ACJP Panels include:

  • liaising with legal and welfare agencies to assist in the delivery of services to Aboriginal people in the criminal justice system;
  • assisting to minimise contact of Aboriginal persons with the criminal justice system by working with the police and other agencies on appropriate diversionary programs; and
  • assisting police in assuring the safety of Aboriginal persons in custody.

There are currently twelve ACJPs across Victoria in the following localities:

  • Shepparton
  • Echuca
  • Swan Hill/Robinvale
  • Mildura
  • Horsham
  • Portland/Heywood
  • Warrnambool
  • Geelong
  • Bendigo
  • Ballarat
  • Northern Metropolitan
  • Dandenong

Although the initial contact point when Aboriginal people are arrested continues to remain a vital focus, ACJPs have been involved in a range of other activities including:

  • Follow-up support with families and persons who may have contact with Police;
  • School holiday program support, positive alcohol, drug and violence free children’s activities;
  • Crisis and emergency/welfare relief;
  • Support for drug and alcohol-free sporting events including football, netball, and basketball; and
  • Attending various community justice related meetings including: LAJAC, IFVRAG, LAECG, Aboriginal Health and Well-Being, Drug and Alcohol, Corrections, Sheriffs’ and Police.

WE ACKNOWLEDGE AND PAY OUR RESPECTS TO THE CUSTODIANS OF THE LANDS ON WHICH WE WORK, COLLECTIVELY THE ABORIGINAL COMMUNITIES OF SOUTH-EAST AUSTRALIA.

273 High St, Preston VIC 3072

vals@vals.org.au

1800 064 865

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