How we create impact
We do more than provide free legal help — our lawyers work alongside social workers and financial counsellors to support safety, recovery and wellbeing, listening first and respecting each client’s choices.
We use what we learn to improve laws, courts and services, and work with the sector to build a system where all women and non-binary people can live free from violence and discrimination.
Here's what we did across 2025
- Delivered free legal assistance to 3,291 women and non-binary people (12% increase from last year).
- Helped waive $292,687 in debt and fines for victim-survivors.
- Trained 290+ lawyers and 620 community professionals.
- Launched the Jacinta Dwyer Internship and published new research.
- Led advocacy and training to improve responses to family violence call outs.
The dedication, empathy, and expertise demonstrated by the team were truly invaluable. A special thank you is owed to my lawyer, social worker and financial counsellor, whose professionalism, kindness, and unwavering commitment made an enormous difference.
Tina's* story:
Reclaiming economic safety after family violence
With specialist financial counselling support, Tina was able to overturn an unfair loan and rebuild her financial safety after family violence.
*Identifying details have been removed or changed.
Your efforts brought me significant relief during some of my most difficult times. I am deeply grateful for your understanding and for empowering me to move forward with confidence.
Training workers who support people experiencing family and sexual violence
97%
said they would recommend our training to others
93%
of lawyers said the training increased their knowledge of relevant legislation
98%
of community service professionals said the training improved their ability to provide legal information
Explore our training“The facilitation by the Women’s Legal team was incredible - everyone involved was so engaged and brought energy, passion, skill and generosity to the way they facilitated. It was without doubt the best and most impactful training that I’ve ever done - I am very grateful that training like this exists!”
Improving safety across the system
Throughout the year we worked to ensure people experiencing family violence are recognised and supported, not treated as perpetrators. This is a harmful pattern known as misidentification that can lead to arrest, loss of housing, work or contact with children.
Drawing on our court experience, we advocated for change and shared practical guidance and training, so victim‑survivors are recognised and believed when they seek help.
Supporting Treaty and partnering with First Nations communities
We support Victoria’s Treaty process and work in partnership with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples to embed self-determination in how services and systems are designed.
Guided by relationships built on trust and respect, our Reconciliation Advisory Committee ensures this work is shaped with First Nations people, not on their behalf.
Justice with dignity. Change that lasts.
Together, we can help women and non‑binary people get legal help with dignity and work for safer, fairer systems.