Frankston Council Backs Free Legal Services for Youth and Renters

Published on 21 August 2025

Frankston City Council is investing $100,000 to provide free legal services for vulnerable community members through Peninsula Community Legal Centre (PCLC).

The funding supports two key initiatives under Council’s Local Support Package, designed to reduce the impacts of the ongoing cost-of-living crisis.

School Lawyer Program: Empowering Young People

A $50,000 grant will fund the delivery of a School Lawyer Program in local secondary schools, helping students overcome barriers to accessing legal support and increasing their understanding of rights and responsibilities.

Delivered onsite two days per week from August 2025 to August 2026, the program will provide legal advice, education, casework and court representation to approximately 250 students in the Frankston area.

Tenancy Service: Supporting Residents at Risk

A further $50,000 will enable PCLC to expand its free tenancy legal service, offering critical support to renters, rooming house residents and caravan park tenants facing housing insecurity.

Operating three days per week from August 2025 to August 2026, the expanded service is expected to reach around 350 residents, offering tenancy advice, casework and representation at Tribunal hearings.

Jackie Galloway from PCLC welcomed Council’s timely support for the two initiatives, saying: “These services are a vital safety net for renters at risk of eviction or homelessness. Keeping people in safe, secure housing helps them stay connected to work, school and community life.”

“The Frankston area has a statistically high level of family violence and we want to provide programs in schools to educate young people early about their rights and the services available to support them in a safe environment.”

Supporting the Broader Community

The legal support funding is part of a broader $425,000 Council investment supporting 25 local relief organisations and community agencies. The Local Support Package is designed to ensure vital services continue to reach residents and businesses impacted by rising living costs.

The Stronger Together 2025/26 Budget includes dozens of new initiatives while maintaining a high standard of core services. Investments like this partnership with PCLC demonstrate Council’s focus on long-term benefits through smart, community-focused funding.

Councillor Sue Baker said the Peninsula Community Legal Centre funding highlighted Council’s commitment to supporting residents through challenging times.

“With cost-of-living pressures affecting so many households, access to free legal advice can make a real difference. These programs will give our community the tools and support they need to understand their rights, access help when they need it, and feel confident navigating the legal system. By investing in both young people and renters, we’re building a safer, fairer and more inclusive Frankston where everyone has the chance to thrive.”

For more information on Frankston City Council’s Local Support Package visit the Council website here.