ATSILS

ATSILS is a community-based legal service for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people across Queensland. It helps with criminal, family and civil law matters, and has done so since 1972.

People can call the free number 1800 012 255 during business hours for any legal matter. After hours, the same number is a custody notification service for new arrests only. The service also provides assistance at police stations.

ATSILS also runs community legal education, law reform work, throughcare support and coronial and public sector monitoring. Casework is subject to means and merit tests, and some clients receive free help.

ATSILS has its head office in Brisbane and runs regional and satellite offices across Queensland. The Mackay office is at 33 Sydney Street. The service helps Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people throughout the state.

ATSILS handles criminal, family and civil law matters, including representation and advice. Its Mackay office provides all three. It also offers throughcare services to address repeat offending, community legal education and law reform work. Applicants go through a means and merit test, and some receive free help while others pay a contribution.