Western Australia in legal aid funding boost through the broadband network
Legal Aid WA is to receive a fuinding boost of $214,000 in funding to provide legal assistance services and professional training to regional Western Australia through the National Broadband Network.
Mark Dreyfus QC
The finance is part of the Federal Government’s Regional Legal Assistance Program, and was announced on Tuesday by Attorney-General Mark Dreyfus QC.
“Increasing the availability of legal assistance services to residents of regional and remote areas is critical to providing access to justice for all Australians,” Mr Dreyfus said.
“Through this program, providers can develop innovative ways of using the National Broadband Network to enable residents of regional and remote areas access to legal assistance.”
“This project will harness the benefits of National Broadband Network through a fibre connection in Geraldton to expand Legal Aid WA’s services and increase cooperation between regional and metropolitan legal professionals.”
A $4 million funding commitment was made in the 2011-12 Budget to improve access to legal assistance services through the National Broadband Network for people living in regional Australia.