Thom, a widower caring for his dependent child, was living in public housing and relying on a Disability Support Pension when he was pursued for more than $3,500 following a motor vehicle accident. Facing significant financial pressure, he was unable to resolve the matter on his own and was unsure where to turn for help.
Sammy, a single mother, was visiting her local library to borrow books for her young daughter when she noticed our Street Law Coffee Van. Curious, she approached and engaged with our Community Engagement Officer. This initial conversation opened the door for Sammy to seek help, particularly around outstanding child support owed to her and her Centrelink entitlements.
Mack’s life changed overnight. After leaving a successful career to care for his ageing parents, he returned to Melbourne grieving, unwell, and without income.
Surrounded by instability and threats, his wellbeing declined. A RHOP outreach worker built trust with Tim, connecting him to vital health services and advocating for safe housing.
Amy, a family violence survivor, was held liable for $5,106 in lease break fees and property damage caused by her abusive ex-partner, despite notifying the agent and paying the full bond.
Mia’s rental provider wanted the provider’s father to move into the property and served Mia with a Notice to Vacate under s91ZZA Residential Tenancies Act 1997. Despite making over 200 unsuccessful rental applications, Mia couldn’t relocate and the rental provider applied to VCAT for possession.
Blake moved into a property advertised as having a car space. Upon arrival, he discovered that no car space existed. Despite this, he signed a new lease after 12 months. During his tenancy, he also received a rent increase that was issued during the enactment of the COVID-19 Omnibus (Emergency Measures) Act 2020, which prohibited rent increases under Section 539. PCLC attempted to negotiate a rental refund with the agent, but both the agent and rental provider refused.
Leon endured six years of family violence and eventually left the family home with his children after being granted sole parental responsibility for them. Leon’s mental health was subsequently worsening, and this resulted him losing his job and then his rental property after falling into arrears.
Tim approached PCLC after receiving a 7-day notice from the Sheriff regarding $116,405.20 in unpaid fines. His long-term substance use disorder, mental health issues, and history of incarceration contributed to his offending and inability to manage fines.
Simon, 17, from a low-income, non-English speaking family, was charged with two assaults after an incident he regretted.
