Redfern Legal Centre opened its doors in 1977 with one paid staff member, barely any money, and lots of volunteers with expertise, enthusiasm, passion, commitment and a vision. Almost 30 years on volunteers still play an integral and vital role in Redfern Legal Centre's work and contribute to all aspects of the Centre - the Centre would not be able to operate without them!

Our Volunteers

Our volunteers are of all different ages and from all walks of life. During the past year RLC had 260 volunteers with at least 70 active volunteers on our books at any one time. Redfern Legal Centre is able to attract approximately 30 000 volunteer hours per year and we estimate that through our volunteers we contribute the equivalent of $900,000 worth of services to the community each year.

Volunteers' Backgrounds

Volunteers at the Centre work either during the day or in the evenings. Daytime volunteers - are generally made up of law students and interested members of the community - do weekly shifts, working on reception, casework (under the instruction of a solicitor), research and administration. Evening volunteers - include solicitors and legal assistants. Their role is to give advice to clients as most of the Centre's legal advice is given through these evening shifts. They do weekly or fortnightly shifts. RLC would not be able to provide anywhere near its current level of services without the huge contribution of these volunteers. RLC and its clients also access pro bono assistance from a number of practitioners and firms.

Times & Shifts

There are 3 rostered shifts for volunteers each day: 2 day-time shifts 9.00am to 1.00pm and 2.00pm to 6.00pm and the evening client advice shift 6.30pm to 9.00pm. A paid staff member supervises each shift and is called the Duty Person. Four volunteers are rostered on each day-time shift and between 8 to 10 volunteers are rostered on each evening client advice shift. We expect volunteers to take on a volunteer commitment that is realistic given the other demands upon their time.

For further information: contact our Communications & Volunteer Manager on (02) 9698 7277 or by email at recruitment@rlc.org.au.