A-G highlights growing importance of DV legal services

"Navigating the justice system can be daunting for many, especially those who are vulnerable,” she said, in presenting the service with its award.

“This free and confidential service provides women in need with expert legal advice, which, in turn, empowers and protects them."

Director of the Legal Services Commission Gabrielle Canny echoed a similar sentiment, noting that services like this are life-changing for many vulnerable women.

“Abuse can come in many forms, with abusers increasingly using technology to harass their victims. This can involve threats, tracking devices, stalking and repeated calls or texts – sometimes hundreds in a day," Ms Canny said.

“The Women’s Domestic Violence Court Assistance Service helps those women apply for intervention orders or deal with residential tenancy issues arising from abusive relationships."

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Attorney-General Chapman and Ms Canny's comments come following a recent national summit on women's safety being held earlier this month.

During the summit, the Law Council of Australia expressed their concern over further reform being needed to protect victims of domestic violence.

“Lawyers working on all sides of family, criminal and other parts of the law in Australia have personally seen and been affected by the impact and aftermath of our national family, domestic and sexual violence crisis. The faces and stories of the women, men and children who have been subjected to violence will never leave us," said LCA president Dr Jacoba Brasch QC at the time.

“A priority for the Law Council as the national representative of the legal profession is to advocate for a justice system which provides protection to victims without fear or favour. Unfortunately, our current system has serious flaws.”