Skip to main content
Demand for law services soar as cost-of-living bites
The high cost-of-living is increasing demand for community law services as people seek support for resolving issues such as mortgage payments, job insecurity, and relationship matters.
Women’s Centre Rodney Manager Jo Nicholson says the rise in stress and anxiety is apparent among women visiting the centre and a broader range of people are also seeking support.
“The economic uncertainty has created a noticeable shift in the demographics of those seeking support. Previously, those who are resilient and coping are now dropping into the centre for the first time.
“Many people are finding themselves struggling to adjust to a day-to-day existence, grappling with the unpredictability of their circumstances. Conditions such as depression and anxiety, which were once sporadic, are now pervasive and affecting women across all demographics.”
Access to legal advice essential
With financial stress and marginalisation often being barriers to seek legal advice, the centre provides free clinics run by local lawyers to ensure women in need have access to these essential services.
“The Women’s Centre is dedicated to empowering, informing, and supporting women to make positive changes for themselves and their families. These clinics enables us to create a holistic support network to address our clients’ needs more comprehensively,” says Nicholson.
The centre partners with a roster of lawyers, including Haigh Lyon Director Ben Molloy, who provide free legal advice at regular clinics each month.
Molloy lives locally and has worked with the Women’s Centre for several years as part of Haigh Lyon’s contribution to ensure legal services can be accessed by the wider community.
“I am just one of many lawyers in my local region who contribute their time to assist those in need to legal guidance. People come to the clinics when they do not know what to do next. They are often under significant financial and personal pressure.”
While the lawyers don't handle legal work directly, they assist clients by providing information, resources, and referrals.
“Whether people are unsure where to turn for help or need clarification on a legal matter, they are there to listen and give guidance,” says Nicholson.
Tackling a wide range of issues
Women seek help for a wide range of issues including divorce, matrimonial property, child custody, child support, spousal support, employment disputes, and property. Guidance and support are offered to women who are experiencing domestic violence.
Nicholson says the service is crucial for supporting women to make informed decisions about issues affecting them, and for those who may not be able to afford legal assistance or feel intimidated by lawyers.
“The service is crucial for women navigating complex family dynamics and seeking fair outcomes. The sessions also help reduce stress for people and enable them to make informed decisions about their lives.
“We couldn’t do it without the commitment and support of our local lawyers – their willingness to participate and give their time is crucial to the success of this initiative,” she says.
With over 30 years of community involvement, Women’s Centre Rodney provides a warm and welcoming space for women to access various services including counselling, drop-in support, advocacy, group programs, creative workshops, and community gardening.