Women’s Legal Service Queensland (WLSQ) is thrilled to announce the 2024 Walk for Change, in partnership with Inspired Adventures. Set to take place from November 12th to November 15th 2024, this transformative journey invites participants to trek 40 kilometres along the stunning Great Ocean Road, commemorating the 40-year anniversary of WLSQ.
Walk for Change aims to honour the courageous journey made by women who have sought help in the face of domestic and family violence over the past four decades. By following in their footsteps, participants will not only pay tribute to these brave individuals but also raise vital funds to support WLSQ’s ongoing mission.
Participants will have the chance to explore some of Australia’s most breathtaking scenery, from sheer limestone cliffs to deserted beaches and mountain ash forests. The trek spans approximately 40 kilometres over four days, offering diverse terrain and challenges, including well-defined tracks, rocky paths, and beach walks. Participants of all backgrounds and abilities are encouraged to join.
Participants can expect to be well supported throughout the adventure, with experienced guides and cheering teammates. The trek allows participants to move at their own pace, with frequent breaks and no heavy bags to carry, other than personal supplies for each day.
Nadia Bromley, CEO of Women’s Legal Service Queensland, said: “Every step taken during the Walk for Change represents a powerful commitment to domestic violence prevention. This adventure offers not only a physical challenge but also a meaningful opportunity to make a tangible difference in the lives of those affected by domestic violence. We invite participants on this significant adventure while raising vital funds for WLSQ.”
Inspired Adventures has a proven track record of organising adventures worldwide, raising more than $46 million for important causes over the last 19 years. By choosing to embark on this journey, participants can be confident that they are making a meaningful contribution to providing social justice for a safer future for women and children.
The total cost to participate in the adventure is $2,900, with the option to pay in instalments. Included in the cost are transfers, accommodation, meals as per itinerary and a local guide (no heavy packs to carry). Each participant has a fundraising goal of $2,500 with all proceeds going to support women and children impacted by domestic and family violence.
For more information including the itinerary and to register, please visit: inspiredadventures.com.au/event/wlsq-greatoceanwalk-2024
WLSQ is seeking experienced advice lawyers specialising in family law and domestic violence for the new office.
30 November 2023 – Women’s Legal Service Queensland (WLSQ) is pleased to announce the opening of its new office in Ipswich. This strategic expansion represents a significant milestone for WLSQ, as it seeks to provide greater access to free support and legal services to women in the region.
The new Ipswich office enables WLSQ to further its mission of social justice for a safer future for women and children. The expansion into the region is part of WLSQ’s ongoing commitment to serving the community.
Kelly Moore, Director of Corporate Services at Women’s Legal Service Queensland, said: “We are excited to extend our services to the Ipswich community. Our team is dedicated to providing free legal advice, representation, and support to women in need and the new Ipswich office will help us reach more individuals, ensuring they receive the help and justice they deserve. We want to thank our supporters including philanthropists and donors whose support enabled this valuable expansion.”
The new office is in Tower Central 114 Brisbane Street, Ipswich, and visits are by appointment only.
As part of the expansion, WLSQ is actively seeking experienced advice lawyers specialising in family law and domestic violence. If you are a dedicated legal professional looking to make a difference, WLSQ invites you to consider joining the team.
23 November 2023 – Women’s Legal Service Queensland (WLSQ) and Queensland Law Society (QLS) are delighted to announce the resounding success of the 10th annual Queensland Legal Profession Breakfast, where more than $160,000 was raised for WLSQ, thanks to the generosity of valued sponsors and supporters.
This landmark event, held both in City Hall and online, brought together more than 650 members of the legal profession to commemorate a decade of unity in supporting domestic and family violence prevention.
This year’s breakfast marked the 10th anniversary with the theme “10 Years – A Legacy of Care”. Attendees were treated to a thought-provoking panel discussion on domestic and family violence featuring The Honourable Margaret McMurdo AC, Dr Rachael Field, Lionel Hogg, and Nadia Bromley.
Nadia Bromley, CEO of Women’s Legal Service Queensland, said: “We are deeply thankful for the overwhelming support received at this significant event. The funds raised will contribute immensely to our work of providing free legal and social work support to women and children affected by domestic and family violence. This year’s breakfast not only celebrated a decade of commitment but also shone a light on the legacy of care that the legal community continues to build.”
Chloé Kopilović, Queensland Law Society President, said: “Queensland Law Society is honoured to support WLSQ on the 10th anniversary of this significant event shining a light on domestic and family violence, and by recognising an outstanding practitioner through the Dame Quentin Bryce Domestic Violence Prevention Advocate Award. While we have come a long way, there is still a long way to go. QLS is committed to a coordinated, powerful and compassionate response to every incidence of DFV by supporting legal practitioners to assist victim-survivors and working towards strong legislative change.”
Rosie Batty AO, 2015 Australian of the Year and speaker at the 2014 Legal Professional Breakfast, added: “I still recall very nervously speaking at the Legal Professional Breakfast nine years ago now. A lot of time has passed since then, but the issue of family violence continues to be the overwhelming problem that it’s always been. Raising awareness and striving for change is just as important now as it has ever been. I hope you continue with me on this journey.”
Lionel Hogg, Partner at Gadens, said: “Thanks in no small part to the tireless advocacy of Women’s Legal Service Queensland, the Queensland legal profession is acutely aware of the scourge of domestic violence in the community and its profound impact on many lives. As a result, the profession generally has been incredibly supportive of fundraising and pro bono efforts for many years, and I know this support will continue.”
The 2023 Dame Quentin Bryce Domestic Violence Prevention Advocate Award was presented to Kathleen Simpson.
Looking ahead, WLSQ looks forward to its 40th Anniversary celebration in 2024. Follow WLSQ for updates on planned activities and the enduring legacy of a four-decade commitment to providing accessible legal assistance and other vital support services to women in Queensland.
WLSQ would like to thank our valued sponsors and supporters:
2023 LEGAL PROFESSION BREAKFAST SPONSORS
Principal Sponsor
Gadens
Major Sponsor
Event Sponsors
The Board of Women’s Legal Service Queensland Ltd (WLSQ) has resolved to support a constitutionally enshrined Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice to Parliament.
WLSQ’s support for the Voice to Parliament is:
WLSQ recognises it is ultimately a question for individuals to form their own views and exercise their democratic rights.
Sharing our support for the Voice is an important step in our commitment to Reconciliation. WLSQ is proud to share our support for the Yes campaign and recognition in our Constitution for the nation’s first peoples.
– Genevieve Dee (Chair) and Nadia Bromley (CEO)
For more resources, please take a look at FAQ – Yes23, Voice to Parliament – Reconciliation Australia and the CLCQ statement.
WLSQ acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the lands on which we live and work, particularly the Turrbul, Yuggera, Gubbi Gubbi, Ugarapul peoples and the Yugambeh Language Region on whose lands our offices sit. We recognise their continuing connection to this Country, its waters, and culture. We acknowledge that their sovereignty was never ceded. We pay our respects to Elders, past and present, and we especially honour First Nations women and the traditions they carry.
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