Legal Aid NSW is urging anyone impacted by the recent bushfires in the Central Coast, Mid North Coast, Upper Hunter and Central West NSW to seek free legal help early.
The Legal Aid NSW Disaster Response Legal Service (DRLS) can advise people about issues relating to insurance claims, tenancy rights, accessing disaster grants and payments, financial hardship, family violence and employment.
Senior disaster and insurance solicitor, Ma’ata Solofoni, said people impacted by bushfires can get free legal advice about insurance including making a claim, entitlements under their policy such as temporary accommodation, denials of claims or where people are unsure if the damage is covered by their policy.
“The earlier someone seeks legal advice, the better the outcome. We can assist by negotiating with insurers to resolve any issues with the claims process if your home has been damaged by the recent fires. We can also provide advice on what people should do straight away and whether damage is likely to be covered,” Ms Solofoni said.
“We often assist people who need immediate help accessing support such as temporary accommodation provided through their insurer, or help negotiating urgent repairs to their damaged rental property or challenging an eviction. We also help with advice about eligibility for disaster grants or payments, and we support people negotiating with employers if their work is affected.”
Anyone can drop into a Community Recovery Hub being established by the NSW Reconstruction Authority for free legal help from one of our Senior Disaster Solicitors on Friday 12 December between 1pm-5pm at the Peninsula Community Centre, 98 McMasters Rd, Woy Woy. Alternatively they can call the DRLS Helpline on 1800 801 529 to make an appointment for telephone advice, or visit the DRLS website.
The Executive Director of Civil Law at Legal Aid NSW, Meredith Osborne, said timely legal help after a disaster can avoid many flow-on social issues, like homelessness, financial hardship and unemployment.
“We know that access to timely legal advice before, during and after a disaster can prevent legal problems from escalating. If left unresolved, these problems can cause acute hardship, prolong recovery, and exacerbate trauma and disadvantage. That is why it is crucial that legal help is part of the frontline response to disasters,” she said.
Disaster relief lawyer Ma’ata Solofoni is available for interview.
Contact details:
Media contact | Georgia Clark | 0438 606 092 | [email protected]
