Canberrans seeking a rewarding volunteer role are encouraged to apply to become a member of the Legal Aid Review Committee Panel, which is responsible for reviewing decisions made by the Legal Aid Commission, including decisions to terminate or refuse grants of legal aid.
"Legal Aid ACT plays an essential role in providing legal support to Canberrans with nowhere else to turn. A key part of making this work is ensuring that people get grants of aid when they need it most, which is why we need people on the Review Committees," Attorney-General Shane Rattenbury said
"These volunteer panel positions provide an opportunity for community members to help vulnerable and disadvantaged Canberrans in need of legal assistance. Panels exist for lawyers and for non-lawyers, so if you are a non-lawyer who cares about safeguarding the rights of the vulnerable, we are asking for your help.
"Panel members should have relevant qualifications and experience, be able to demonstrate compassion and empathy, strong communication skills including assessing significant background materials and be prepared to make balanced decisions.
"Panel members are appointed for three years, and are called to participate in a Review Committee on average twice a year. This is a non-practitioner panel, which means applicants must not be a legal practitioner or be members or officers of the Legal Aid Commission.
"If you are interested in ensuring those in need can access vital supports, then I encourage you to apply."
