Business Details
33 Years
experience
Free Legal & Social Support Services in Pilbara
Established in 1993, Pilbara Community Legal Service (PCLS) has dedicated itself to providing accessible, equitable, and culturally appropriate legal and social support services to the Pilbara region. Our multidisciplinary approach integrates legal advice, financial counselling, tenancy advocacy, domestic violence support, and community outreach to address complex client needs. With a team of 27 staff operating across four offices in Karratha, Hedland, Newman, and Roebourne, we prioritise early intervention to prevent issues from escalating. Our accredited legal professionals specialise in family law, criminal injuries compensation, and care and protection matters, while our housing and financial counsellors help clients achieve stability. PCLS actively engages in law reform and community education to address systemic inequities, ensuring clients understand their rights and can advocate for themselves.We maintain partnerships with government and non-government agencies to deliver holistic solutions, particularly for vulnerable populations facing social exclusion. Our commitment to innovation and cultural sensitivity enables us to serve remote communities like Marble Bar and Jigalong through outreach programs. Accredited under the National Legal Scheme for Community Legal Centres, we uphold rigorous standards of integrity and accountability. Our strategic focus on collaboration and evidence-based practices has made us a trusted pillar of the Pilbara community for over three decades.
Services
Legal Services
Financial Counselling
Tenancy Advocacy
Housing Support
Domestic Violence Advocacy
Community Migrant Service
Redress Support Scheme
Details
- Year established: 1993
Highlights and features
- We provide free legal services to individuals regardless of financial circumstances.
- Our multidisciplinary team offers integrated legal, financial, and housing support.
- We operate four regional offices and outreach services to remote Pilbara communities.
- Accredited under the National Legal Scheme for Community Legal Centres since 2024.
- Our 27 staff members have expertise in family law, criminal injuries compensation, and more.
Associations and certifications
- National Legal Scheme for Community Legal Centres
Services
Legal Services
Our accredited lawyers provide free legal assistance in family law, criminal injuries compensation, and care and protection matters. We draft court documents, represent clients in proceedings, and offer guidance on property settlements and child custody arrangements. With offices in Karratha, Roebourne, and Hedland, we ensure accessible legal representation for vulnerable populations facing social exclusion.
Financial Counselling
Qualified financial counsellors offer confidential support for debt management, budgeting, and mortgage/rental payment difficulties. Our non-judgmental approach helps clients develop sustainable financial strategies through one-on-one consultations across the Pilbara region, including outreach to remote communities like Jigalong and Nullagine.
Domestic Violence Advocacy
Specialist advocates in Karratha, Hedland, and Newman provide safety planning, court representation, and referrals for domestic violence survivors. We collaborate with police and support networks to develop risk reduction strategies and connect victims with emergency accommodation and legal protection orders.
Housing Support
Case workers in four regional offices assist with breaking the cycle of homelessness through tenancy mediation, accommodation sourcing, and life skills training. We partner with government agencies to secure stable housing for at-risk individuals and families across the Pilbara.
Community Migrant Service
Tailored support for migrants navigating legal systems, including visa applications, cultural integration, and access to social services. Our outreach programs ensure equitable access to justice for culturally and linguistically diverse populations throughout the Pilbara region.
People
Joanna Collins
Chief Executive Officer
Joanna Collins leads PCLS with strategic vision, focusing on evidence-based services and collaborative partnerships. Her background in organisational transformation and financial management drives service excellence across the Pilbara region.
Mark Jeffreys
Principal Solicitor
Admitted in 2007, Mark Jeffreys brings extensive legal experience to PCLS. His background in criminal justice systems and private practice informs his client-focused approach to family law and community advocacy.
Kristiana Carroll
Corporate Services Manager
Kristiana Carroll manages PCLS finances with expertise in regulatory compliance and strategic planning. Her dual qualifications in accounting and law ensure operational excellence across the organisation's four regional offices.
Angie Perry-Mansell
People and Culture Manager
Angie Perry-Mansell fosters a supportive workplace culture at PCLS. Her expertise in human resources and public health drives staff development initiatives that enhance service delivery across the Pilbara region.
Questions
What areas does PCLS service?
PCLS operates in Karratha, South Hedland, Newman, and Roebourne, with outreach to Marble Bar, Nullagine, Jigalong, Onslow, Tom Price, and Paraburdoo.
Are PCLS services free?
Yes, all legal and social support services are provided free of charge to eligible clients regardless of financial circumstances.
What legal specialisations do you offer?
We specialise in family law, criminal injuries compensation, care and protection matters, and domestic violence advocacy across the Pilbara region.
How can I make a referral?
Complete our online referral form and email it to the nearest PCLS office in Karratha, Hedland, Newman, or Roebourne.
Do you help with housing issues?
Our housing support workers assist with homelessness prevention, tenancy mediation, and securing stable accommodation through government partnerships.
Is financial counselling available?
Yes, qualified counsellors provide confidential advice on debt management, budgeting, and mortgage/rental payment difficulties across the Pilbara region.