Author: Kerri

Heal Country, Heal our nation

During this week, NAIDOC celebrations are held across Australia to celebrate the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

This years NAIDOC theme is – Heal Country!

Heal Country! – calls for stronger measures to recognise, protect, and maintain all aspects of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture and heritage.

This year ILC is unable to participate in events, as large parts of the NSW are currently in lockdown.

Our Aboriginal Legal Access Worker, Levenia, is still available to take your calls on 4276 1939

You can also still celebrate NAIDOC Week by participating in online events.  To find out what is available visit: https://www.naidoc.org.au/get-involved/naidoc-week-events

27th May to 3rd June is National Reconciliation Week (NRW)

These dates commemorate two significant milestones in the reconciliation journey; the successful 1967 referendum, and the High Court Mabo decision respectively.  The goal of the reconciliation movement is for a just, equitable and reconciled country.

NRW is a time for all Australians to learn about our shared histories, cultures, and achievements, and to explore how each of us can contribute to achieving reconciliation in Australia.

This year’s NRW theme is #MoreThanAWord

It reminds us to always work towards more impactful action and that we all play an important role in shaping Australia’s journey towards a just, equitable and reconciled nation.

To find out more about a just, equitable and reconciled Australia visit:

Reconciliation Australia

Reconciliation NSW

Illawarra Legal Centre Receives Awards

Illawarra Legal Centre (ILC) received 2 Awards at Legal Aid NSW Children’s Court Assistance Scheme (CCAS) 25th Anniversary Celebration . The Awards were announced on Wednesday 9th December at NSW Parliament House.

ILC was recognised for its successful Children’s Court Assistance Scheme (CCAS) service and ILC worker Levenia received an award for her contribution to CCAS through her work with Aboriginal youth and the setting up of the “Heads Up” program.

ALWAYS WAS, ALWAYS WILL BE ABORIGINAL LAND.

As we stand together, uniting as one, living and working, connecting community and country, Illawarra Legal Centre acknowledges our land is Aboriginal Land. Always Was, Always Will Be.

Homelessness Week 2020

It is Homelessness Week, and we are being reminded that currently 405,000 Australian women over 55 are at risk of becoming homeless. Today saw the launch of two reports into homelessness – both excellent, but heart-wrenching.

The first is called “At Risk: Understanding the population size and demographics of older women at risk of homelessness in Australia”

The other is “Older Women in the Private Rental Sector: Unaffordable, Substandard and Insecure Housing“