A partnership between Torres Strait Regional Authority and E&H Law is making sure Torres Strait Islanders have local access to quality legal services. Photo: Supplied.
Access to quality legal services for Thursday Island community members has just gotten easier with the opening of the new Law House late last month.
E&H Law, funded by the Torres Strait Regional Authority (TSRA), has delivered critical core legal services to the remote region since 2021, and recently celebrated 12 months serving the Torres Strait, including Northern Peninsula Area communities of Bamaga and Seisia.
E&H Law partner Peter Haarsma said the addition of the Thursday Island building to the firm’s existing Cairns office cemented its commitment to continue delivering high-quality legal services.
“Our service is all about helping people navigate the legal system with confidence ensuring they know their rights,” he said.
“We make it a point and priority to provide caring and culturally appropriate support across criminal, civil and family law matters.”
TSRA Chairperson George Nona said the organisation’s funding commitment would provide stability and long-term legal support for residents in the Torres Strait region until 2028.
“Ensuring access to strong legal support and advice is just one step TSRA is taking locally towards Closing the Gap to reduce the overrepresentation of First Nations people, including young people, in the justice system,” Mr Nona said.
Since being awarded the region’s legal services contract in April 2024, E&H Law has represented 2,763 matters, supporting 1,238 clients across the Torres Strait region, including Bamaga and Seisia.
