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Marnin Family Support & Legal Unit (FVPLS)

Family Violence Prevention Legal Service (FVPLS)

Working together for safer families and stronger futures

The Family Violence Prevention Legal Service (FVPLS) at Marninwarntikura Women’s Resource Centre provides culturally safe legal and holistic support to Aboriginal women and families impacted by family, domestic and sexual violence.

As part of the Strengthening Families Team, FVPLS delivers integrated support that brings together legal assistance, case management and therapeutic pathways. Our focus is not only on responding to immediate legal needs, but on supporting long-term safety, wellbeing and healing.

We work alongside women, families and communities to find practical, culturally grounded solutions that address the impacts of violence and support stronger futures.

What is family and domestic violence?

Family and domestic violence occurs when a person uses power and control to harm, threaten or dominate another person.

This can include:

  • Physical violence

  • Sexual assault

  • Threats and intimidation

  • Emotional and social abuse

  • Financial abuse

  • Coercive Control

Violence can take many forms and may not always be visible. Everyone deserves to feel safe.

How we can support

FVPLS provides free, confidential and culturally safe support, including:

Legal support and representation

  • Advice and representation for restraining orders, family law and child protection matters

  • Assistance with Criminal Injuries Compensation applications

  • Support navigating courts, police and legal processes

Holistic and practical support

  • Risk assessment and safety planning

  • Advocacy and case management

  • Support to access housing, counselling and other services

Outreach and community-based services

  • Outreach to remote communities across the Fitzroy Valley

  • Flexible, place-based support for women and families

Education and prevention

  • Community legal education workshops

  • School and community awareness sessions

  • Support for families to better understand and respond to family violence

Walking alongside women and families

Our approach is grounded in respect, cultural safety and self-determination.

We recognise the strength of women and families and work alongside them to:

  • Increase safety and stability

  • Build understanding of legal rights and options

  • Strengthen family capacity and wellbeing

  • Support pathways toward healing and recovery

FVPLS is part of a broader, integrated service system at MWRC, ensuring women and families can access the full range of supports they need through one connected service.