Women's Legal Service Tasmania (WLST)

Aids women but also fosters societal change for gender equality

WLST is dedicated to providing free and confidential legal and social support services to women across Tasmania.

With offices in Burnie, Hobart, and Launceston, and providing outreach across the state, WLST aims to remove significant barriers women face in accessing justice. WLST supports women in areas of family law, domestic violence, child protection, employment, sexual harassment, and discrimination.

WLST offers a variety of services including legal advice, representation and community legal education. WLST employs social workers and financial counsellors to assist clients work collaboratively with lawyers. WLST works
to enhance women’s safety and wellbeing
by addressing interconnected, complex socio-legal issues.

WLST is known for its innovative approach which include trauma-informed legal practices and public legal education campaigns. Events like the “Beyond the Prison” seminar and the Annual National Sexual Harassment Conference are examples.

WLST has also produced innovative resources including podcasts, videos and using plays to challenge gender stereotypes and facilitate conversations.

Through strategic partnerships with government bodies, non-profits and community groups, WLST enhances its reach and impact. WLST is a vocal advocate for women’s rights at local, state, and national levels ensuring that legal reform and policies reflect the needs and rights of women.

WLST’s impact is evident in its extensive service delivery, including handling thousands of cases annually and conducting numerous educational workshops and seminars.

“WLST strives to ensure that every woman in our state has access to justice, including access to integrated legal and social supports, empowering them to lead safer, more fulfilled lives, where women have the opportunity to reach their potential.” Yvette Cehtel, CEO.

 Tasmanian Honour Roll of Women