MEDIA ALERT
Unanimous verdict in favour of unique women’s court program
An interim report will be presented tomorrow into a unique NSW court program
providing free non-legal support to women that has gained overwhelming praise
from service users and recognition as a model for better protection of women and
children in the Family Court system.
The evaluation of the Women’s Family Law Support Service (WFLSS) will be
presented at a forum at NSW Parliament House by the report’s author, Dr Lesley
Laing from the University of Sydney.
Dr Laing found the WLFSS makes the family law system more accessible through
the provision of support, advocacy, information and referrals to women.
Eighty per cent of the women using the service have experienced domestic
violence, with most of this group before the court to deal with parenting orders.
Close to half of these women had expressed concerns for their children’s safety.
The WFLSS offers practical and emotional support to women who find themselves
confronted in court with abusive former partners amid a chaotic and complex
legal environment. Along with information and advice, the service also provides a
secure, private space for women and also arranges improved security measures
for women to avoid further violence and abuse.
WHAT:
Interim evaluation of the Women’s Family Law Support Service
WHERE:
Family Law Courts, 97-99 Goulburn Street, Sydney
WHEN:
10am on Tuesday December 8.
WITH:
? Catherine Gander, executive officer, NSW Women’s Refuge
Movement Resource Centre
? Dr Lesley Laing, University of Sydney, evaluation author
? “Elizabeth”, a WFLSS service user who is an eloquent speaker with
an insight into why this service is so vital – unusually good talent
Contact:
Debra Maynard: 0407 299 007 or Brett de Hoedt: 0414 713 802
NEWS 
