QIFVLS Townsville Office

What is QIFVLS Townsville Office?

QLD Indigenous Family Violence Legal Service (QIFVLS) Townsville Office is a non-profit, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community-controlled legal service dedicated to assisting Indigenous people in North Queensland who are victims or survivors of family violence and/or sexual assault. As part of the Queensland Indigenous Family Violence Legal Service Aboriginal Corporation—one of fourteen Family Violence Prevention Legal Services (FVPLSs) across Australia—QIFVLS Townsville delivers holistic, culturally safe, trauma-informed legal services that prioritize early intervention, prevention, and advocacy for the local Indigenous community.

What services does QIFVLS Townsville Office offer?

• Child Protection Law: Expert legal advice and representation in matters concerning the welfare and safety of children.
• Domestic and Family Violence Law: Support and legal solutions for individuals experiencing domestic and family violence.
• Family Law: Guidance on parenting arrangements, separation, and related family disputes.
• Victim Support: Emotional and practical support for victims and survivors of family violence and sexual assault.
• Victims Compensation: Assistance with claims and entitlements for compensation as a result of violence or abuse.
• Witness Assistance Law: Court preparation and support for witnesses involved in legal proceedings.
• Legal/Court Representation: Professional legal representation in courts and tribunals for eligible matters.
• Legal Reform Advocacy: Community-driven advocacy for meaningful law reform to enhance protections for Indigenous peoples.
• Casework Assistance: Comprehensive case management and ongoing legal support.
• Community Engagement: Active involvement in local initiatives to raise awareness and strengthen community resilience.
• Community Legal Education: Delivery of culturally relevant legal education sessions and resources.
• Court Support: On-the-ground support for clients navigating the court system.
• Early Intervention and Prevention: Strategies and programs aimed at stopping violence before it starts.
• Information, Support and Referral Services: Connections to additional support services and information resources.
• Legal Support, Advice and Representation: Personalised legal guidance tailored to the unique needs of each client.

Why choose QIFVLS Townsville Office as your lawyer?

• Culturally Appropriate Services: QIFVLS Townsville Office delivers services that are culturally safe and responsive to the unique needs of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander clients.
• Trauma-Informed Practice: The team takes a holistic, trauma-informed approach, increasing the likelihood of positive outcomes for those affected by violence and trauma.
• Community Controlled and Trusted: Operates as a community-controlled organisation, building trust and rapport within the local Indigenous community.
• Strong Advocacy for Early Intervention: QIFVLS Townsville Office actively promotes early intervention and prevention, typically reducing the long-term impact of family violence.
• Affiliated and Accredited: Recognized and listed on Legal Aid Queensland’s ‘Find a lawyer’ directory and a member of key national advocacy forums.
• Holistic Support Model: Provides not only legal advice but also casework, welfare, advocacy, and community education, ensuring comprehensive support for every client.

Who are the attorneys at QIFVLS Townsville Office?

• Ocholamero Oroto: Solicitor and Social Worker, holding a BA, MSW, JD & GDPLT, admitted to practice in the Supreme Court of Queensland (since June 3, 2024) and the Australian High Court, specializing in trauma-informed legal support.
• Mark Platt: Senior Solicitor with extensive experience handling complex family violence and Indigenous legal matters.
• Jenny Uy-Arellano: Author and MBA Candidate in Social Impact, contributing expertise in advocacy and social justice.
• Susan Wild: Experienced legal professional supporting QIFVLS’s mission and client-focused services.

How much does QIFVLS Townsville Office cost?

QIFVLS Townsville Office provides all legal services free of charge to eligible Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander clients affected by family violence or sexual assault, ensuring access to justice regardless of financial circumstances.

Where is QIFVLS Townsville Office located?

QIFVLS Townsville Office operates from multiple addresses cited in trusted sources: * 122 Walker Street, Level 5, Townsville QLD 4810 (commonly referenced on Legal Aid Queensland and QIFVLS’s website) * 61-73 Sturt Street, Level 2, Townsville QLD 4810 (listed in White Pages and Community Legal Centres Queensland) * Postal Address: PO Box 2005, Townsville QLD 4810 * Phone: (07) 4721 0600 (Townsville direct) or 1800 887 700 (Freecall) * Email: help@qifvls.com.au * Website: www.qifvls.com.au * Social Media: Facebook | Instagram * Operating Hours: Monday–Thursday: 08:30 AM – 05:00 PM; Friday: 08:30 AM – 04:00 PM; Closed weekends

QIFVLS Townsville serves Townsville and surrounding regions, including Ayr, Bowen, Cardwell, Charters Towers, Home Hill, Hughenden, Ingham, Palm Island, Proserpine, Richmond, and Tully.