- Published:
- Thursday 7 July 2022 at 3:15 am
The Yoorrook Justice Commission is the first formal truth-telling process into historical and ongoing injustices experienced by First Peoples in Victoria in all areas of life since colonisation.
Its objectives are to establish an official record of the impact of colonisation, develop a shared understanding among all Victorians of that impact and of the diversity, strength and resilience of First Peoples' cultures and make recommendations for healing, system reform and practical changes to laws, policy and education, as well as to matters to be included in future treaties.
Self-determination is at the heart of Yoorrook’s work and provides choice about what connections and supports people need in place to tell their truth in a safe way.
All First Peoples are encouraged to participate in Yoorrook’s work and Yoorrook offers a safe space where your truth, culture and wellbeing is prioritised and respected.
How to get legal support
If someone participating in Yoorrook wants to say something that could impact their legal rights, it is important to get legal advice.
For example, to share details of something that was agreed to keep private, or if there is a current court case that involves things not allowed to be talked about publicly.
Talking to a lawyer at Lotjpa Independent Legal Service is free and confidential.
The service is independent from Yoorrook.
The Victorian Aboriginal Legal Service (VALS) and Victoria Legal Aid (VLA) run this service.
Recruitment is now underway for a senior lawyer to work within the Lotjpa Independent Legal Service (Victoria).
This role will provide accurate, responsive and high-quality assessment and support to assist First Nations people who wish to tell their story to the Yoorrook Justice Commission.
More information
Find out more about Lotjpa on the Yoorrook website.
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