Truth requires action: Victorian Government must deliver on Yoorrook Justice Commission commitments
Aboriginal Communities across Victoria have been loud and clear in calling for self-determined solutions to address historic and ongoing injustices caused by the state of Victoria. The delivery of the Yoorrook Justice Commission’s ‘Yoorrook for Transformation’ Report to Victorian Parliament this week was a historic moment in acknowledging the Truth-telling journey and paving a path […]
Locking up children will be Premier Allan’s legacy: that’s nothing to boast about.
Today the Victorian government will introduce “post and boast” laws that will entrench the criminalisation for young people. Under the new laws, they could be sentenced with up to 2 years additional imprisonment for posting on social media about an offence they committed, such as aggravated burglary, armed robbery and carjacking. This is yet another […]
Victoria’s Budget shows that what matters most is fiscal injustice and bad policy
The Victorian Government is celebrating a Budget today that, in their own words, is “Focused On What Matters Most”. It appears what matters most in the justice space to this government is doubling down on repeating mistakes of the past, by continuing to expand investment in police and corrections – rather than committing to long […]
Supporting more Aboriginal people in Victoria: Changes to VALS’ eligibility testing
As of 1st May 2025, VALS will increase its means test threshold to $117,194. We will now be able to assist Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people where the primary income earner of their household earns less than $117,194 per annum. VALS is committed to improving access to justice and high quality culturally safe legal […]
The silence of complacency: empty rhetoric will cost lives
Last night’s budget shows where on the priority list Aboriginal peoples are. Prime Minister Albanese is pursuing popular votes for the upcoming election, rather than showing leadership on the issues that affect us, and for the generations to come. It is clear that our people’s vote doesn’t matter, so the federal budget has remained largely […]
Media Statements from Day 1 of Coronial Inquest into the passing of Clinton Austin
Statement attributable to Shaun Austin, brother of Clinton Austin: “My name is Shaun Austin. I am a Gundijtmara and Wiradjuri man. I am Clinton’s twin brother. I’m also here with our family members – too many to name. Clinton was not just my twin brother, but my best friend, my mentor and teacher who taught me […]