Community Legal Centres help people who are experiencing family violence and coercive control. The lawyers understand that coercive control is serious, it’s illegal in Tasmania, and you have legal options. Don’t be afraid to reach out – they’re there to help you navigate the legal system and protect your rights.
Hobart Community Legal Service
Location: Southern Tasmania (Hobart)
What They Do: Offers free legal information, advice, and representation services to people and communities in southern Tasmania including family violence and elder abuse.
Contact
Phone: (03) 6223 2500
Hours: 9:00am – 5:00pm Monday to Thursday
Hours: 9:00am – 1:00pm Fridays
How to Access: Call to make an appointment or walk in during opening hours. If you, or people close to you, have been affected by family violence or elder abuse and you need legal advice, we’re here to help.
Launceston Community Legal Centre
Location: Northern Tasmania (Launceston)
What They Do: Free legal advice and representation for people in Northern Tasmania, including family violence matters.
Contact
Phone: (03) 6334 1577
Hours: 8:30am – 4:30pm Monday to Thursday (Closed 1:00pm-1:30pm for lunch)
Hours: 8:30am – 1:30pm Fridays
North West Community Legal Centre
Location: North West Tasmania
What They Do: Legal advice and services on issues including family violence matters:
Contact
Phone: (03) 6424 8720
Hours: 9:00am – 5:00pm Monday to Friday
- Tasmania Legal Aid
- What They Do: Provides legal assistance including help with:
- Family Violence Orders
- Family law matters involving violence
- Criminal law representation
- Child protection matters
How Do CLCs Work?
Free Service: All services are completely free – you don’t need to pay anything.
Confidential: Everything you tell them is private and confidential.
Not Means-Tested for Advice: Most CLCs will give you initial advice regardless of your income. For ongoing representation, there may be some eligibility criteria.
No Judgment: Staff are trained in trauma-informed practice and understand family violence.
What to Bring
- Any relevant documents (court papers, police reports, messages, emails)
- Photo ID if you have it
- Details of your situation
- Don’t worry if you don’t have everything – they’ll work with you
What CLCs CANNOT Do
- They generally can’t represent you in complex Supreme Court matters
- They can’t help both parties in a dispute (conflict of interest)
- They’re not emergency services – call 000 if in immediate danger
- Limited capacity means they sometimes have waiting lists