The HIV/AIDS Legal Centre (Victoria) is a community legal centre, providing free legal advice and referral to people living with and affected by HIV/AIDS. The HIV/AIDS Legal Centre (HALC) recognises that people living with HIV/AIDS and people affected by HIV/AIDS have special legal needs. All staff and volunteers at HALC are trained so that they understand the legal problems faced by PLWHA.
HALC's Aims
- To provide free legal advice to people living with and affected by HIV/AIDS;
- To involve PLWHA in the recognition, understanding, and solution of their own legal problems;
- To raise awareness of the laws and processes that affect PLWHA, through information and education; and,
- To encourage participation in the running of HALC by PLWHA.
Who Can Access HALC?
HALC provides free legal advice and referral to all PLWHA. It also provides free legal advice and referral to partners, carers, family, and close friends of PLWHA, where their legal problems relate to HIV/AIDS.
What Types of Problems Does HALC Assist With?
HALC can assist with:
- Making a will;
and,
- Preparation of Medical and Enduring Powers of Attorney.
HALC can also provide advice on:
- Social Security;
- Superannuation;
- Family Law;
- Discrimination of all types;
- Police charges;
- Debt-related matters; and,
- Employment;
- Immigration.
When Can I See a HALC Lawyer?
HALC is open every second Thursday night, from 7pm until 9pm, and is strictly by appointment. To make an appointment to see a lawyer, please telephone HALC directly and leave a message on (03) 9863 0406. A HALC volunteer will call you back within 4 working days. Alternatively, call the Positive Living Centre (PLC) on (03) 9863 0444 (or free-call 1800 622 795 for country callers) after 10am, Tuesday to Saturday.
All HALC and PLC staff and volunteers are specifically trained so that they understand the need for confidentiality. Special facilities are in-place, so that your file and personal details are secure and cannot be accessed by anyone except HALC staff.
