The firm logged more than 17,000 hours of pro-bono work
Maddocks has surpassed the national pro bono target of 35 hours per lawyer in FY2024.
The firm logged over 17,000 hours of pro bono work during this period – an increase of 64% compared to the previous financial year. This translates to an average of just below 44 hours per lawyer, compared to the national target of 35 hours per lawyer.
“A renewed focus on our pro bono program has seen more of our lawyers taking up pro bono matters, allowing us to deliver impactful work for the benefit of some of the most disadvantaged members of society who may not otherwise have access to legal advice or assistance”, CEO David Newman said.
Maddocks has provided assistance to First Nations people, refugees and asylum seekers, and those experiencing homelessness and financial hardship. The firm helped to establish and expand pro bono clinics, partnerships with key community legal centres and not-for-profit organisations.
The firm represented the Federation of Community Legal Centres in negotiating a new multi-enterprise agreement that considerably bolstered employee entitlements. The Fair Work Commission approved the agreement this year.
Maddocks also helped several Traditional Owner groups in remote areas of Australia to conduct commercial negotiations with mining companies, and helped these groups to draft heritage agreements. The team also assisted with the preparation of new wills and powers of attorney for those suffering from elder abuse and experiencing financial struggles.
In addition, the firm advised Women’s Property Initiatives on joining the consortium appointed by Homes Victoria to deliver 1,370 new social housing projects in Melbourne. Maddocks also collaborated with Anika Legal, Kingsford Legal Centre and WEstjustice; the firm supported tenants whose rental properties needed repairs through legal advice, tackled civil and employment law issues, and offered legal guidance to those who were discriminated against and/or harassed in the workplace.
