Gerald Lynch
Funding in this year’s state budget has powered the Brimbank and Melton Community Legal Centre (BMCLC) to continue its services for another four years.
The centre provides specialist legal services, targeted intervention and support for young people.
BMCLC received funding in the 2024-25 budget to continue the Melton Family Violence Program for an additional four years.
One of the main assets at the BMCLC is commUnity+, a multi-disciplinary community agency that provides services across Victoria while looking for opportunities to deliver programs and support to people experiencing disadvantage or hardship in communities rich in cultural diversity.
Last week, staff welcomed in St Albans MP Natalie Suleyman to see exactly what they do.
During her visit, Ms Suleyman spoke to lawyers delivering front-line services for the BMCLC in St Albans, learned more about the family violence program and met with the commUnity+ team.
Ms Suleyman said backing organisations such as commUnity+ in this year’s budget was important, and highlighted the incredible job they do to ensure everyone can access the justice system.
“CommUnity+ delivers transformative services in St Albans, supporting our local community when they need it most,” she said.
CommUnity+ chief executive Tracey Gaudry said the services they provide encompass the strong values of people in Melbourne’s west.
“BMCLC, a program of commUnity+, is core to our commitment to deliver programs, services and support to people experiencing disadvantage or hardship in communities rich in cultural diversity,” she said.
“Minister Suleyman’s lived experience and lifelong commitment to serving the people of St Albans is a testament to our shared values, and we thank her for her support.”
CommUnity+ general manager of family community services Cameron Bloye said they aim to support marginalised communities.
“The mission of commUnity+ is to support and empower communities in the west who are experiencing disadvantage, marginalisation and are vulnerable,” he said.
“Through our legal program we aim to resolve legal issues through the delivery of client-centred, holistic, collaborative, high-quality and specialised legal advice and assistance.”
