Community Justice Programs
Our Community Justice Programs (CJP) team is
staffed by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who provide culturally safe services to our clients
and community.
Our Programs
Custody Notification Service:
The Custody Notification Service (CNS) is the first point of contact when an Aboriginal person is in police custody, this program is vital in ensuring our community members are linked with the right supports when they are taken into custody.
Statewide Client Service Officers:
Our Client Service Officers (CSOs) are key connectors for our clients and local communities to VALS legal assistance. CSOs assist clients to attend court, arrange legal representation, advocate on the client’s behalf, and assist them in their communications with lawyers and to understand court processes and orders.
Baggarrook:
The Baggarrook program is designed to support highly vulnerable Aboriginal women as they transition from prison
and back into community.
Community Legal Education:
VALS is committed to ongoing Community Legal Education (CLE). We believe that information about legal issues and services is a powerful tool that empowers our community to navigate legal issues as they arise.
Aboriginal Community Justice Panels:
Our ACJP program is a volunteer-based community initiative. This program is 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.
Aboriginal Community Justice Reports:
Our Aboriginal Community Justice Reports (ACJR) aims to reduce the overincarceration of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and improve sentencing processes and outcomes for Aboriginal defendants. ACJR’s offer a more holistic account of individual circumstances, including as they relate to a person’s community, culture and strengths.
Ngang Gak
This program provides a therapeutic wraparound service for the whole family. By supporting Aboriginal children aged 10-14 and their families with Cultural Identity, education, employment, health, family and community connections.
Supports & Referrals:
VALS supports clients when they interact with the Victorian justice system. We provide culturally safe and holistic support to ensure that client needs are met beyond legal service provision alone.