Since its establishment in 1973, VALS has advocated for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander communities in Victoria. We remain committed to closing the “justice gap” and believe that self-determination for Aboriginal communities is at the core of achieving this goal.

We are committed to:

• Promoting the rights of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples to empowerment, identity and culture

• Ensuring that Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples enjoy their rights, are aware of their responsibilities under the law and have access to culturally appropriate advice, assistance and representation

• Reducing the disproportionate involvement of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples in the criminal justice system

• Promoting review and amendment of legislation, policies and other practices that discriminate against Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Contact

For further information about our strategic advocacy and law reform work, please contact our Head of Policy, Communications and Strategy, Andreea Lachsz on alachsz@vals.org.au