#family law wollongong

[seacliffau]

How To Choose The Right Family Law Attorney For You?

Navigating family legal matters can be a daunting experience, often accompanied by emotional stress and uncertainty. Whether you are facing a divorce, child custody dispute, or any other family-related legal issue, finding the right attorney to represent you is crucial.

This guide outlines key considerations for selecting a family law attorney, particularly if you are located in a family law Wollongong professional.

Understand Your Needs

Before embarking on your search for a family law attorney, it is essential to identify your specific needs. Consider the nature of your legal issue: Are you seeking a divorce, negotiating custody arrangements, or addressing property settlements?

Understanding your unique situation will allow you to focus your search on attorneys specialising in family law's relevant aspects.

For instance, prioritise attorneys with a proven track record if your case involves complex custody negotiations. Clarity about your needs will streamline the process and help you find an attorney to handle your specific challenges.

Look for Experience and Specialisation

Experience is paramount when it comes to legal representation. It is vital to select an attorney who specialises in family law Wollongong services and has substantial experience handling cases similar to yours.

During consultations, inquire about the attorney’s background, education, years of practice, and case outcomes. A seasoned attorney should be able to share relevant experiences and demonstrate their capability to navigate the complexities of family law effectively.

Check Reviews and References

In today’s digital age, researching potential attorneys is straightforward. Utilise online platforms such as Google, Avvo, and local bar association websites to review testimonials and ratings. An attorney with consistently positive reviews is often a strong indicator of reliability and competence.

Additionally, do not hesitate to request references from previous clients. Speaking directly with individuals who have worked with the attorney can provide valuable insights into their approach, communication style, and overall effectiveness in handling cases.

Evaluate Communication Styles

Effective communication is a cornerstone of a successful attorney-client relationship. During your initial consultation, pay attention to the attorney’s communication style. Do they listen attentively to your concerns? Are they able to articulate complex legal concepts in a comprehensible manner?

Choosing an attorney who fosters open communication and ensures you are informed and involved throughout the legal process is crucial. This is especially important when addressing the sensitive nature of family law Wollongong issues.

Consider Compatibility and Trust

Selecting a family law attorney involves more than assessing qualifications; it is also about finding someone you feel comfortable with. Trust your instincts—if you do not feel a sense of rapport or confidence in the attorney, it may be worth considering other options.

Schedule meetings with multiple attorneys to gauge compatibility. This step is vital, as your attorney will be your advocate during a challenging time, and it is essential to find someone you can trust implicitly.

Assess Fees and Transparency

Finally, understanding the financial aspects of hiring a family law attorney is critical. During initial consultations, inquire about their fee structure. Attorneys may charge a flat fee, hourly rate, or retainer, so it is important to clarify what services are included and any potential additional costs.

A reputable attorney will disclose fees and billing practices transparently, ensuring you are fully informed of the financial implications before making a decision. This clarity will enable you to make an informed choice without unexpected financial burdens.

Conclusion

Choosing the right family law attorney is a significant step in effectively navigating family legal matters. By understanding your needs, prioritising experience, evaluating communication styles, and considering compatibility.

If you need expert legal guidance in family law Wollongong services, remember that the right attorney can substantially protect your rights and advocate for your interests. Taking the time to choose wisely is an investment in your peace of mind and legal success.

[jbcorbanlawyers]

Unlocking Legal Brilliance With JB Corban Lawyer - Your Criminal, Traffic, and Family Law Expert

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[demoexx]

Breathe Easy: The Essential Guide to Wollongong Asbestos Removal

Asbestos has long been recognized as a hazardous material that can pose serious health risks. Found in many older buildings and homes, this mineral fiber can lead to life-threatening conditions such as asbestosis and mesothelioma. In Wollongong, the threat of asbestos remains a pressing concern, particularly for homeowners and property managers. Understanding the importance of Wollongong Asbestos Removal by DemoEx is vital to ensuring safety and compliance with local regulations.

When it comes to handling asbestos, timely intervention can make all the difference. This guide will delve into the significance of asbestos removal, the process involved, and how you can protect yourself and your loved ones.

1. Understanding Asbestos: The Hidden Hazard

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in construction for its durability and heat-resistant properties. While it was favored for its benefits, it has since been banned in many countries due to its dangerous health effects. When disturbed, asbestos fibers can become airborne, leading to inhalation and serious health issues.

Wollongong residents should be aware of where asbestos might be found. Common locations include older insulation, roofing materials, floor tiles, and even textured paint. Knowing where to look is the first step in assessing potential risks in your property.

2. The Risks of Asbestos Exposure

Exposure to asbestos can lead to various health problems, some of which may not surface for decades. As mentioned earlier, diseases like asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma can develop after prolonged exposure to asbestos fibers. Unfortunately, these conditions often present themselves in advanced stages, making early detection and intervention crucial.

Moreover, the emotional toll of dealing with asbestos-related health issues can be overwhelming. Families may face uncertainty, anxiety, and financial strain as they navigate diagnosis and treatment options. By prioritizing Wollongong Asbestos Removal by DemoEx, you can mitigate these risks and create a safer environment for yourself and your loved ones.

3. The Asbestos Removal Process: A Step-by-Step Guide

Understanding the asbestos removal process is essential for anyone considering this necessary intervention. The first step involves a thorough inspection by licensed professionals. These experts will assess your property for asbestos-containing materials and develop a comprehensive removal plan tailored to your specific situation.

Once the plan is in place, the actual removal process begins. Professionals use specialized equipment and safety protocols to ensure that asbestos is contained and safely disposed of. This may involve sealing off areas of the building, using air filtration systems, and following strict guidelines to prevent any fiber release.

Finally, after the removal is complete, a follow-up inspection is essential to confirm that the site is safe for re-entry. This final step not only guarantees compliance with local regulations but also provides peace of mind for homeowners.

4. Why Choose Professional Services?

While some homeowners may consider tackling asbestos removal as a DIY project, this approach can be incredibly dangerous. Professionals like DemoEx are trained to handle asbestos safely and effectively. They understand the complexities of the removal process and have the equipment necessary to protect both themselves and your property.

Choosing professional services also ensures compliance with local laws and regulations regarding asbestos removal. Failing to adhere to these guidelines can lead to legal repercussions and increased health risks. With experts on your side, you can navigate this challenging process with confidence, knowing that you are prioritizing safety above all.

5. Taking Action: Your Next Steps

If you suspect the presence of asbestos in your property, don’t hesitate to take action. Start by contacting a qualified asbestos removal service like Wollongong Asbestos Removal by DemoEx. They can conduct an initial inspection and provide guidance on the next steps. Remember, early intervention is key to minimizing health risks and ensuring the safety of your home.

In addition to removal, consider implementing regular inspections for older properties. As buildings age, the likelihood of asbestos exposure increases, making ongoing vigilance essential. Your health and safety should always come first, and being proactive can help you breathe easier.

Conclusion: Prioritize Safety Above All

In conclusion, the importance of Wollongong Asbestos Removal by DemoEx cannot be overstated. Protecting yourself and your loved ones from the hidden dangers of asbestos is a vital responsibility for homeowners. By understanding the risks, recognizing the need for professional removal services, and taking swift action, you can create a safer living environment.

[inspectwollongong]

Know What You're Buying: Advantages of Professional Building Inspection 

If you plan to buy a home, ensuring the property is in good condition is crucial. This is why home inspections have become increasingly popular in today's real estate market. 

As home costs increase, purchasers become more concerned about the property quality they're investing in. They want to ensure that the home is in excellent condition and worth their money. 

They seek a secure, safe, and comfortable place for their family. Investing in a property should not be taken lightly. If you're hesitant about hiring a property inspector, here are some key things to consider. 

Understand the existing situation of the house. 

The main goal of a building inspection in Wollongong is to provide a comprehensive report on the home's current condition. This includes identifying potential future issues and safety features and explaining the needs of various house parts. 

A home inspection ensures that the home's condition matches its appearance, helping buyers make informed decisions about their purchase. During a house inspection, major and minor property defects are usually identified and reported. Experienced building inspectors can suggest how to manage some of these issues. However, it is ultimately up to the purchaser to decide based on the knowledge they gain from the inspection report. A home inspection gives buyers a more detailed understanding of the property's condition and potential future problems. 

Spend now to save later. 

Some buyers want to avoid investing in a home inspection, believing it is a costly additional expense. Buying a house is more beneficial to buyers than they realize because a house inspection can add a lot of value. 

Discovering water leakages or damaged appliances after purchasing a property can result in unforeseen and expensive repairs. A house inspection is a wise investment for any buyer, as it allows them to plan and negotiate with the seller to repair any issues before finalizing the deal. Such an inspection can help secure the buyer's future and prevent unexpected expenses. 

Even if your building inspection report shows no significant defects, getting a pre-listing inspection will give you peace of mind and assurance that your property is in good condition. 

Assist in an effortless purchase. 

Conducting a building inspection in Wollongong before purchase can answer many questions about the property, making it easier for the seller and buyer to agree on the property's value. 

During a building inspection, if any significant problems are found, the buyer can request a lower price or ask for repairs before buying the house. On the other hand, if no significant repairs are needed, it becomes easier to determine a fair price for the home. Access to accurate information about the home's condition allows for a smoother negotiation process between both parties, making it suitable and easy for everyone involved. 

What to Think About When Choosing Wollongong Building Inspection 

There are several factors to consider when hiring a Building Inspection in Wollongong. To begin, seek a firm that employs certified and experienced inspectors educated about building standards, laws, and pest management, such as Inspect Wollongong. 

Furthermore, look for a business that does building and pest inspections, uses cutting-edge tools and technology, and delivers a full report with images and descriptions of any issues discovered during the inspection. With Inspect Wollongong, you can expect the highest quality of services in all areas. 

Conclusion 

When you find yourself captivated by a property's charm, it's important to remember that there may be more to it than meets the eye. Before deciding, take the time to research and acquire knowledge about the property thoroughly. 

If you're considering purchasing a property, hiring a reputable Building Inspection in Wollongong will help you make an informed choice. At Inspect Wollongong, we promise to provide you with the accurate information you need to get the problems repaired or to decrease the cost by an adequate amount to cover repairs. We are licensed and protected, with over 20 years of expertise and over 5,000 inspections completed. 

Contact Inspect Wollongong today to discover potential issues before it's too late.  Disclaimer: This is generic Information & post; content about the services can be changed from time to time as per your requirements and contract. The images we use in this context have been taken from the official website of Inspect Wollongong. To get the latest and updated information, contact us today or visit our website.

[maranofamilylawyers]

Lawyers Hurstville - Family and Divorce Lawyers

Lawyers Hurstville are experts in family and divorce law. They understand that these issues can be extremely difficult and work hard to get the best results for their clients.

Unified lawyers are a top-rated Sydney family law firm. They offer services for all family law matters including divorce, separation and child custody.

Family Lawyers Sydney

The Lawyers Hartsville in Australia is designed to support Australian families when there is a breakdown in their relationship. However, ending a relationship is not always easy and disputes can arise about issues such as property settlements or how to care for children. These disputes can be resolved through a number of processes, including mediation. However, many people may find the process confusing and stressful. It is therefore important to seek help from a family law professional who can assist them.

A qualified family lawyer can provide a range of services, from filing an application for divorce to arranging child custody and property settlements. They can also help you with family violence matters and provide advice on financial issues. They can also assist with making a Will, which is essential for anyone who wishes to ensure that their loved ones are taken care of after their death.

A Family Lawyer Sydney can help you resolve a range of issues, including separation, divorce and parenting arrangements. They can also offer mediation services, and can draft and review legal documents such as property agreements, marriage contracts and pre-nuptial agreements. They are experienced in handling a wide range of complex and sensitive family law matters, including property settlements, child custody disputes, domestic violence and financial arrangements.

Family Lawyers Hurstville

If you are having legal issues in Hurstville, it is important to get help from a qualified solicitor. You can start by checking their credentials and looking for reviews online. Moreover, you should also look for free consultations. This will help you decide whether they are suitable for your needs.

Family law in Hurstville and across Australia is a complex legal field that deals with familial disputes, separations, and divorces. It is governed by the Family Law Act 1975 and emphasizes the best interests of children. It also stipulates how assets and property are distributed during divorces and separations, and takes into account factors like domestic violence and child abuse.

Go To Court Lawyers Hurstville offers a comprehensive family law service, including divorce and separation, child custody, parenting orders, property settlements, and more. Their lawyers have extensive experience in appearing before the family courts and work hard to resolve your issues without litigation. They also offer a personable and friendly service, something that is difficult to find in bigger firms. Their team is also experienced in drink driving cases, and they can guide you through the process of defending yourself from charges of drunk driving. They can even advocate for your case so that you can receive a reduced sentence.

Family Lawyers Wollongong

Our Family Lawyers Sydney are experienced in a broad range of family law matters including complex parenting matters, property settlements following the breakdown of a marriage or de facto relationship and divorce applications. Our aim is to provide you with high level technical advice tailored specifically to your circumstances to assist you in resolving your matter as quickly and cost effectively as possible.

We can also assist with non-litigation pathways to resolve your matter such as mediation, collaborative family law and negotiated out-of-court settlements. We can prepare Financial Agreements which protect your assets and help to avoid a costly court hearing.

Jessica Koot is a family solicitor who is committed to the local community and has extensive experience in complex litigation matters in the Family Court of Australia and more recently, since the courts merged, in the Federal Circuit Court. She has a strong focus on resolution and brings her lived experience as a mother to her work as a family lawyer in Wollongong & the Illawarra.

A free consultation is available to discuss your situation with an experienced family lawyer. Contact us today to arrange your appointment. Our lawyers are highly rated by their peers and clients and we are committed to helping you with your family law matter.

[wearejapanese]

Authors: Ayako Kano, University of Pennsylvania, and Vera Mackie, University of Wollongong

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe gave a speech on 26 September at the United Nations General Assembly proposing ‘womenomics’ as the key to Japan’s economic recovery. Abe proposed ‘refortifying Japan’s true abilities and its economy once more’. He pledged to create ‘an environment in which women find it comfortable to work and … be active in society’. It was ‘no longer a matter of choice for Japan’, but ‘a matter of the greatest urgency’.

Abe has been associated with the denial of the history of enforced sexual slavery in the Second World War, with the backlash against gender equality policy, and with plans to alter the Constitution of Japan. Under an earlier Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) government, members of the party not only advocated rescinding the ‘pacifist’ Article 9 of the Constitution, but also targeted the articles which promised freedom from discrimination on the grounds of race, creed, sex, social status or family origin.

It was thus surprising to see Abe using the United Nations as a platform to champion ‘womenomics’. Had Abe converted to feminism? Or was he merely making a theatrical gesture in that direction? What was the wider context of the speech?

In recent decades, Japanese governments have ratified the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW); passed an Equal Employment Opportunity Law in 1985; passed the Basic Law for Gender-Equal Society in 1999; and created the Gender Equality Bureau under the auspices of the Cabinet Office.

Ironically, Abe has in the past been seen to be against such advances. In the first decade of the 21st century, as head of the LDP’s project team for ‘Investigating the Status of Radical Sex Education and Gender Free Education’, Abe and his allies attacked various initiatives that they saw as detrimental to ‘traditional’ cultural values.

As we argued in an earlier essay, deep-seated gendered inequalities still exist in contemporary Japanese society, and nearly all aspects of government policy could benefit from adopting a more gender-sensitive outlook. In 2010, the Japanese government was criticised by the UN’s CEDAW Committee for the lack of women in leadership positions. At the time, the Democratic Party of Japan (DPJ) government promised to undertake what it called ‘positive action’ (known elsewhere as ‘affirmative action’) with a goal of increasing the share of women in leadership positions in all sectors of society by 2020. But the DPJ regime was slow to take steps, and the multiple disaster of March 2011 further stalled progress.

When the LDP regained power in a landslide victory in late 2012, there was widespread concern that the return of Abe as Prime Minister would mean winding back the gains that had been made in gender policy in previous years.  Indeed, in the latest Gender Gap report from the World Economic Forum, Japan’s position has dropped.

There were also historical international dynamics that prompted Abe’s apparent championing of women’s rights at the UN. The Japanese government faces unresolved issues from the Pacific War. It is involved in territorial disputes with Russia, China, Taiwan and South Korea. And it is under international scrutiny for its lack of response to calls for apologies and compensation for wartime atrocities, including the sexual violence of the Nanjing Massacre of 1937 and wartime sexual slavery. These are clearly gendered issues, and critical observers accuse the prime minister of attempting to quell criticism through ‘ad-hoc gestures.’

The reasons for scepticism about Abe’s feminist posture become even clearer when we examine recent government statements on gender issues. For example, Abe’s task force considered instilling the idea of a ‘proper childbearing age’ into all women through the distribution of ‘women’s notebooks’. This has been criticised as being intrusive. Abe also proposed extending women’s childcare leave to three years to encourage women to withdraw from the workforce and be full-time carers of their infants. This has been criticised as unrealistic and likely to lead only to further discrimination against women in the workplace.

The LDP has been rated by the Women’s Action Network as being among the worst of all political parties in Japan when it comes to gender issues. The LDP has only been supportive of gender policies when they could be directly linked to economic growth and boosting the birth rate. In Abe’s UN speech and in his actual policy decisions, ‘womenomics’ is a policy for recharging the economy and refortifying the nation, not for improving the situation of women. Perhaps it is just Abenomics under another name?

Abe’s UN speech is a welcome reminder that gender issues are a key factor in international politics. Historically, however, the LDP has championed women’s progress only when it was most convenient for the party, and domestic support for the party is split on gendered lines. This is why Abe’s performance was greeted by scepticism rather than enthusiastic applause.

Ayako Kano is Associate Professor in the Department of East Asian Languages and Civilizations at the University of Pennsylvania.

Vera Mackie is Australian Research Council Future Fellow and Professor of Asian Studies at the University of Wollongong.

[gamblelaw1510]

Affordable Solicitors in Wollongong - Gamble Law & Estate Planning

Gamble Law & Estate Planning has an expert team of lawyers and solicitors in Wollongong. They provide a range of legal services including Compensation, Family, Employment, Property, and Immigration Law. For more information, visit: https://www.gamblelaw.com.au/

[jobinterviewghost]

Career swap brings three new teachers to Katherine | Katherine Times | Katherine, NT

news, local-news, news, katherine, school, teachers, australia

A lawyer, musician and surf life saving world champion are preparing to go back to school in Katherine next week. Greg Miller, Emily Toogood and Andre Retrot are part of the 2021 Teach for Australia alumni, swapping their careers interstate and moving to join the staff at Katherine High School for two years when term starts on February 2. Teach for Australia is an organisation which claims to be "working to confront educational disadvantage." After a 14 week intensive training course, mostly held via Zoom, the trio are part of a cohort of hundreds scattered across Australia's regional schools. Mr Miller is relocating from Wollongong with his young family to take up teaching, a job he said is 'in the blood' of his family. "My mum was a high school teacher, my grandfather was a science teacher and principal," he said. "My mum was very enthusiastic about me joining the profession and all the benefits we can create for future generations." Mr Miller is a three-time surf life saving world champion and coach, his family loves the water and has wasted no time enjoying the natural beauty of Katherine since arriving three weeks ago. "We've been up at Edith Falls twice already, we've been out to the Gorge, so yeah, exploring anything," he said. "It was a family decision [to move]... the lifestyle that the Northern Territory provides in terms of getting out in the great outdoors and seeing a completely different environment was certainly a key reason." He said his coaching career has inspired him to work with young people, and will be hoping to broaden his student's horizons during his two years teaching maths, and Business and Innovation. "I've coached in surf sports for many, many years with adolescents. "I really enjoy working with adolescents to broaden their perspectives on both themselves and the opportunities they can have in life." He'll be joined by Ms Toogood who has already achieved a goal just by showing up after her move from Adelaide Hills. "I've always wanted to live in the NT and it was about finding the right reasons," she said. "I have a suspicion I'm going to be here for a very long time... I love it." A musician by trade, she plays the viola and has some previous experience teaching various instruments in schools, which she'll bring to the Katherine music course. Ms Toogood said she loves the creativity and teamwork skills young people can gain from learning music. "I'm really fascinated by learning... what music can offer as a way of connecting with people," she said. "Everybody loves music... playing music together... having your part in a group and being able to go through the process of relying on each other. "It's a great way to connect and work together." Staff turnover and difficulties in attracting teachers have been a cause for concern among the wider community, but recent pressure from parents helped bring about funding commitments from the NT Government to battle the retention problem. Ms Toogood said she isn't surprised at the strength of the local community. "One of the awesome things about schools is you're immediately connected to a community... I've already met so many people." Rounding out the trio is Tasmanian born Mr Retrot, who probably wouldn't be here if it wasn't for the COVID-19 pandemic. "I've been living in Melbourne but after two lockdowns I just wanted wide open spaces and something as different as possible," he said. But he might have got more 'different' than he bargained for after he arrived in October and was forced to camp in the build-up heat with his Kelpie called Baby. "I had ten days of 42 degrees, I was camping with my Kelpie who was looking at me strangely the whole time asking 'why are we here and what are you doing?'... that was pretty rough," he said. Mr Retrot said he left a career of 'soul deadening drudgery' in commercial, family and criminal law to start anew as a teacher, where he feels he can express himself more and enjoy his work. "When you're a lawyer... you're not really bringing any of yourself to work, it's all about your skills," he said. "With teaching I think you're offering yourself, you turn up to work as a whole person and that's really important to me." He'll be teaching year 7, 9 and 10 humanities and year 9 English which fits with his love of literature and history. Mr Retrot said Katherine had made a positive first impression on him and he's looking forward to immersing himself in work and the town's community. "It's all about relationships, I'm a relationship person... here you really get to help people from early on and I think there's a beauty to that. "There's a proper community vibe, it's the kind of place that doesn't come to you, you need to come to it, but once you do, it comes to life." While you're with us, you can now receive updates straight to your inbox each Friday at 6am from the Katherine Times. To make sure you're up to date with all the news, sign up here.

/images/transform/v1/crop/frm/JpWNRWWp8ju3xiV9HTJvf8/5c81b11d-681f-40a8-b0d6-e6b5cbcc3331.JPG/r0_297_3292_2157_w1200_h678_fmax.jpg

January 29 2021 - 1:24PM

Career swap brings three new teachers to Katherine

Andre Retrot, Emily Toogood and Greg Miller start work at Katherine High School on Monday. Picture: Tom Robinson.

A lawyer, musician and surf life saving world champion are preparing to go back to school in Katherine next week.

Greg Miller, Emily Toogood and Andre Retrot are part of the 2021 Teach for Australia alumni, swapping their careers interstate and moving to join the staff at Katherine High School for two years when term starts on February 2.

Teach for Australia is an organisation which claims to be "working to confront educational disadvantage."

After a 14 week intensive training course, mostly held via Zoom, the trio are part of a cohort of hundreds scattered across Australia's regional schools.

Mr Miller is relocating from Wollongong with his young family to take up teaching, a job he said is 'in the blood' of his family.

"My mum was a high school teacher, my grandfather was a science teacher and principal," he said.

"My mum was very enthusiastic about me joining the profession and all the benefits we can create for future generations."

Mr Miller is a three-time surf life saving world champion and coach, his family loves the water and has wasted no time enjoying the natural beauty of Katherine since arriving three weeks ago.

"We've been up at Edith Falls twice already, we've been out to the Gorge, so yeah, exploring anything," he said.

"It was a family decision [to move]... the lifestyle that the Northern Territory provides in terms of getting out in the great outdoors and seeing a completely different environment was certainly a key reason."

He said his coaching career has inspired him to work with young people, and will be hoping to broaden his student's horizons during his two years teaching maths, and Business and Innovation.

"I've coached in surf sports for many, many years with adolescents.

"I really enjoy working with adolescents to broaden their perspectives on both themselves and the opportunities they can have in life."

He'll be joined by Ms Toogood who has already achieved a goal just by showing up after her move from Adelaide Hills.

"I've always wanted to live in the NT and it was about finding the right reasons," she said.

"I have a suspicion I'm going to be here for a very long time... I love it."

A musician by trade, she plays the viola and has some previous experience teaching various instruments in schools, which she'll bring to the Katherine music course.

Ms Toogood said she loves the creativity and teamwork skills young people can gain from learning music.

"I'm really fascinated by learning... what music can offer as a way of connecting with people," she said.

"Everybody loves music... playing music together... having your part in a group and being able to go through the process of relying on each other.

"It's a great way to connect and work together."

Staff turnover and difficulties in attracting teachers have been a cause for concern among the wider community, but recent pressure from parents helped bring about funding commitments from the NT Government to battle the retention problem.

Ms Toogood said she isn't surprised at the strength of the local community.

"One of the awesome things about schools is you're immediately connected to a community... I've already met so many people."

Rounding out the trio is Tasmanian born Mr Retrot, who probably wouldn't be here if it wasn't for the COVID-19 pandemic.

"I've been living in Melbourne but after two lockdowns I just wanted wide open spaces and something as different as possible," he said.

But he might have got more 'different' than he bargained for after he arrived in October and was forced to camp in the build-up heat with his Kelpie called Baby.

"I had ten days of 42 degrees, I was camping with my Kelpie who was looking at me strangely the whole time asking 'why are we here and what are you doing?'... that was pretty rough," he said.

Mr Retrot said he left a career of 'soul deadening drudgery' in commercial, family and criminal law to start anew as a teacher, where he feels he can express himself more and enjoy his work.

"When you're a lawyer... you're not really bringing any of yourself to work, it's all about your skills," he said.

"With teaching I think you're offering yourself, you turn up to work as a whole person and that's really important to me."

He'll be teaching year 7, 9 and 10 humanities and year 9 English which fits with his love of literature and history.

Mr Retrot said Katherine had made a positive first impression on him and he's looking forward to immersing himself in work and the town's community.

"It's all about relationships, I'm a relationship person... here you really get to help people from early on and I think there's a beauty to that.

"There's a proper community vibe, it's the kind of place that doesn't come to you, you need to come to it, but once you do, it comes to life."

While you're with us, you can now receive updates straight to your inbox each Friday at 6am from the Katherine Times. To make sure you're up to date with all the news, sign up here.

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[jbcorbanlawyers]

Know More About The Criminal News - Visit Media At JB Corban Lawyers

The JB Corban Lawyers' Media section offers useful articles, case studies, and knowledgeable comments on criminal law. It highlights the significant cases they've handled, demonstrating their legal expertise while demystifying intricate legal ideas. JB Corban Lawyers empower the public by distributing accurate legal information and analysis with a dedication to transparency and education. By bridging the understanding gap between the public and complex legal proceedings, this resource promotes an educated society. Their Media section is user-friendly and accessible, serving as a model of legal excellence and opening up legal information to all.

[olivarrhhhh]

“The Royal Commission as you know is returning, was about to explore, and it's in the records so it's no great secret... who the fraternity people were who used to attend Costello's the boy brothel club in Kellett Street, King's Cross. Now I've actually got the list here... and a lot of them are still practising... but the judge of the day of the Royal Commission decided it was a no go zone and counsel assisting at the time said: "all rise for morning tea" and then never went back to it... and I did ask the Commissioner why. He said he'd deny it if ever I mentioned it. He said: we decided not to revisit that issue because the public would lose confidence in the judiciary. I think it's time, like the churches, and other institutions, who are now facing up to the truth, I think it's time the institution of the law face reality. There are a lot of people in the law. The Royal Commission is doing an excellent job... ...I think it's time we gave consideration to cleaning up the act... and I, I mean, you might like to revisit... I don't see how, given the evidence, given just to say the instance, and I have to say I got rid of another judge through the excellent work of the judicial commission of NSW without a murmur. He was a person, on this list here, who was picking up young blokes in the toilets outside Marcellin College Randwick. He had a case in the central west... I won't name the town... Stepfather abusing his daughter. The judge closed the court, this is the judge that's in this list, found the person guilty, suppressed the names, gave a non-custodial sentence to the man and let him go back to the family home. Nothing else was done. I think it's a disgrace. I think included in these documents... (interrupted) I think it measures the issue, and I hope people are listening and we give serious consideration to the victims of this process. When the police find it necessary to put a judge under surveillance, I think we've got to the point where we've got a problem, and when that surveillance is dropped because of a lack of cooperation between between the AFP and NSW police, we HAVE a problem. Thank you very much Mr Chairman.” - Bill Heffernan (at UOW: University of Wollongong, Australia) https://www.instagram.com/p/CKFK--7hJdx/?igshid=13uexfvxdh6jq

[maranofamilylawyers]

How to Find a Family Law Specialist

Those seeking family law specialists Sydney can find a variety of options. Some of the most prominent are JB Solicitors, Pryor Tzannes & Wallis Solicitors, and Barkus Doolan. Each of these firms have a wealth of experience and can help you with all of your legal matters.

Unified Lawyers

Having worked in a leading specialist family law firm in Sydney, Ben O'Sullivan has developed a strong knowledge of both the family and criminal law sectors. He is now undertaking a Master of Laws in Criminal Practice at Wollongong University.

Unified Lawyers is one of the top rated family law firms in Sydney. They have a team of experienced, highly skilled and internationally recognised lawyers. They provide legal advice in all areas of family law. They specialise in property settlement, binding financial agreements, estate planning and immigration. They are dedicated to providing clients with accurate, professional legal advice and services.

They offer a wide range of services including divorce, separation, property settlement, child maintenance, spousal maintenance, pre-nuptial and marriage agreements, and much more. They also offer free consultations.

JB Solicitors

Whether you are dealing with a civil dispute, criminal law, real estate or a family matter, the JB Solicitors family law specialist Sydney team can assist you. These professionals have experience in a wide range of areas, including prenuptial agreements, separation and divorce, property and financial arrangements, as well as wills and estates. They work with their clients to achieve their goals.

They also provide services in employment and property law, as well as in the area of commercial law. Their lawyers have worked with a variety of corporations and entrepreneurs.

They are also renowned for their cutting-edge work in the legal industry. They have received awards for their work in this area, such as being recognised by APAC Insider and Australian Small Business Champion Awards.

Pryor Tzannes & Wallis Solicitors

PTW Law: Pryor Tzannes & Wallis Solicitors and Public Notaries is a legal firm based in Mascot, NSW. They are known for their impressive legal credentials and exemplary client services. They specialise in many areas of law including Commercial, Property, Dispute Resolution, and Family Law. They have a storied history of providing top-notch legal services for the past 60 years. Using the most up-to-date technology, they provide a seamless service experience for their clients.

They have the requisite resources to support a team of highly qualified professionals that will ensure your legal needs are met with the highest standards. Their lawyers are a well-educated group of individuals who have extensive knowledge of all aspects of the legal arena.

Barkus Doolan Winning

Among the many things a family law specialist can do for you, the most significant is ensuring that your rights are protected during a dispute. Barkus Doolan winning is one of the leading firms in this area of practice. Their lawyers have the knowledge and experience needed to help you resolve any issues you may be facing in this area of law. The firm is highly regarded for their litigation and negotiation skills, as well as their ability to provide favourable outcomes through mediation.

Melinda Winning, partner at Barkus Doolan winning, has been practicing family law for over 20 years. She is an Accredited Family Law Specialist, and has a wealth of experience in all aspects of family law, including property and parenting matters. She is also an active member of the Law Society of New South Wales Young Lawyers Family Law Committee. Melinda has been involved in Appeals that have been decided by the Full Court, and has presented papers at legal conferences all over Australia.

Dimocks

Whether you are dealing with child custody, property settlements, or other family law issues, Dimocks Family law specialist Sydney can help you. The firm was started in 2002 by Chris Dimock, a family law specialist who has a wealth of experience in the field. He was previously employed by Sly & Russell and Cutler Hughes & Harris. His clients are assured of expert legal services.

Dimocks Family Lawyers offer legal services, legal products, and court representation. You can contact them by filling out the form below. They will get back to you within 24 hours.

The firm specialises in all areas of family law. They are experienced in divorce and property settlements, as well as parenting and guardianship matters. They also offer mediation, which helps couples reach agreements before they go to court. They are also members of the Law Council of Australia.

Maggie Orman

Choosing the right family law specialist is a daunting task. Fortunately, Sydney has an impressive collection of practitioners to choose from. Whether you're looking for the cheapest family lawyer or the best legal counsel, you'll find a plethora of options at your disposal. The first step in the process is to determine what type of family law services you need. In addition to identifying what you need, you need to find out who is capable of delivering the quality of service you deserve.

The best way to figure out which firm is the best is to do a bit of research. The internet is a great place to start. You can look at online reviews and find out which firms have a stellar reputation. If you're looking to spend a few hundred dollars, you want to make sure you're getting the best value for your buck.

[bbcbreakingnews]

Woolworths toilet paper brawl: Treiza and Meriam Bebawy found GUILTY

A mother and daughter at the centre of the panic buying brawl that shocked Australia have been slammed by a magistrate.  

Meriam and Treiza Bebawy, 23 and 61, were found guilty of affray charges over their wild brawl at a south-west Sydney Woolworths. 

The pair had tried to argue they were acting in self-defence after fellow shopper Tracy Hickson had grabbed a pack from their loaded-up trolley that March morning. 

But that defence was rejected today by Magistrate Peter Bugden as he finally brought the humiliating saga to an end some four months after the fact.

Mother-daughter Meriam and Treiza Bebawy, above, were each found guilty of the charge of affray – with the younger woman, 23, getting hit with a criminal conviction

Healthcare worker Meriam Bebawy had told police they ‘urgently’ needed loo roll as her mother Treiza (right) ran a family day care centre 

Magistrate Peter Bugden took particular aim at the younger woman, saying: ‘She took the law into her own hands’.

The softly-spoken magistrate had spent the weekend mulling over the farcical fight and slapped Ms Bebawy with a criminal conviction and a good behaviour bond. 

The magistrate ruled Meriam had chosen to ‘smash’ the snatched toilet paper pack out of the victim’s hands. 

He said she had then acted inappropriately by continuing to lash out. She had told police ‘I hit her across the face, thinking if i hurt her, she’d let go of my hair.’

The magistrate said:  ‘I do not think it was appropriate that Meriam Bebawy continued in the way she did after she saw what she regarded as her toilet roll taken.’

Mr Bugden said Ms Bebawy’s mother, Egyptian migrant Treiza, then entered the fray, striking victim Tracy Hickson.

‘Was that a natural reaction from a mother seeing their daughter involved in a fight? Maybe.

‘I’m reminded of an analogy from rugby league… these days, it’s the second man into the fight who gets the penalty.’

Mobile phone footage had captured Ms Hickson demanding just one pack from the pair, who had filled up their trolley with eight. 

A furious Treiza told her: ‘No, not one pack’.  

The pair claimed they needed toilet paper ‘urgently’ after a fruitless hunt through Sydney stores and a failed attempt to purchase through Click&Collect

Meriam Bebawy, 23, (left) told police in an electronically recorded interview that they weren’t like an ‘average’ family in their situation. Treiza Bebawy claimed in her police interview that their alleged victim had sworn at them and used the F word – which she said she has never used in her life

The court had heard evidence that the fight had came about after they had suffered through a fruitless, week-long search for toilet paper, including a failed attempt to buy some packs through Click&Collect.

Treiza ran a family daycare centre, they argued, and Meriam needed to take a load back home to Wollongong. 

The wild incident allegedly occurred as a crowd of as many as 40 people bolted inside the store in a rush for toilet paper as doors opened that Saturday morning. 

The magistrate ultimately spared Treiza Bebawy a conviction and handed her a good behaviour bond, saying that neither had any criminal record. 

Despite the stiffer sentence for Meriam Bebawy, he said she was a person of ‘excellent character’.  

Neither were at court for the decision and were instead represented by a lawyer.

The charge of ‘affray’ means that a person acts of threatens ‘unlawful violence’ which could cause a person of ‘reasonable firmness’ to fear for their safety. 

The post Woolworths toilet paper brawl: Treiza and Meriam Bebawy found GUILTY appeared first on BBC BREAKING NEWS.

from WordPress https://bbcbreakingnews.com/woolworths-toilet-paper-brawl-treiza-and-meriam-bebawy-found-guilty/

[mohawktimmy]

This trip to Europe like the last ones started with a conversation with dad along the lines of:

“Tim, I’m going to a conference in <European Country> in about 12 months, mum is going to come, would you like to go to Europe as well?” “Sure, can we also go to <small European country / principality / micro-state>?”

This time I wanted to go to Andorra. They have the le Tour de France to thank for that, they rode through their last year and I decided I wanted to visit it.

A Salvador Dalí sculpture

Andorra is tiny, smaller than the ACT, it’s half the size of Canberra, and Canberra isn’t big. It has a population of not many – around 85,000 of which only 35,000 are of Andorran ancestry. While it uses the Euro, it isn’t a member of the European Union, but is part of Schengen. The primary industries seem to be spending money, and skiing, with a small amount of agriculture dedicated mainly to tobacco.

Skateboarding is a popular way of getting around.

As it was summer it was off-season, very off-season. We managed to get a hotel about about a third the usual rate. I almost didn’t believe the price when I booked it, but I checked the cost in winter and the cost was more appropriate to the quality of the hotel we thought we were booking.

We caught a bus from Barcelona and when we reached the border it stopped and two police officers from Andorra got on, asking for passports. Earlier in the day we had agreed it was far too much effort to get my passport out of Dad’s suitcase – where we had locked it in Barcelona while staying in the AirBnB (no safe like a hotel). After fumbling around with the suitcases under the bus one of the police officers said “Don’t worry about it, just get back on the bus.” So I did. It is Schengen, so randomly crossing borders isn’t really a problem for a bunch of tourists on a bus.

That evening after getting ourselves settled in the hotel Dad and I went for a walk in the wind and the rain down the main street. Down being the operative word, everything in Andorra is either downhill or uphill, and our Hotel was most of the way up a hill on the north side of the valley. The main street through Andorra la Vella is barely two lanes wide and is lined with shops on either side. There is a very strange mix of high end, boutique stores and junk electronic stores that look like something between an eBay store brought to life and something transported out of Hong Kong.

Something straight out of Hong Kong, or eBay

I wouldn’t like trying to cycle up this hill, I didn’t enjoy walking it.

Got to love a traffic light with a counter

The electronic stores were competitively priced. A HDD was a couple of dollars cheaper than Officeworks, a GoPro Hero 5 Session was about 10% cheaper than JB HiFi. They all sold watches (Swiss, and Japanese, but mainly Japanese – the Swiss watches were reserved for the high end boutique jewellers with the armed guards or the branded stores like Breitling), selfie sticks, fidget spinners, and other random paraphernalia.

After we completed a lap of the main street we returned to the hotel for dinner. It would have been after 7, and despite being high up in the Pyrenees in a valley, and there being a lot of rain and cloud cover, it was still quite light. To avoid the rain and too much effort we enjoyed room service for dinner, an advantage of staying in quite a nice hotel, that we could only afford in the off season.

The next morning we caught a local bus to Encamp, about 15 or 20 km further up the valley from Andorra la Vella. The local bus turned out to be a coach, with no standing room. It flew off down the main street, manoeuvring between parked cars and pedestrians, accelerating into corners I wasn’t sure it could fit around. The traffic in Andorra can be surprisingly aggressive.

Like other tiny places in Europe there was more of a separation between Andorra la Vella and Encamp that between Sydney and Wollongong, where the suburbs just seem to bleed into each other. We got off the bus early, worried there might not be many stops in Encamp and we could easily fall out the other side. We walked through the empty streets, getting the occasional strange look from a local, why would three foreigners be walking through Encamp this early in the morning, in summer?

A entrance just waiting to break ankles

We found the automobile museum we were going to visit, but it wasn’t open for another hour or so. We continued further up the valley looking for a Casa Cristo, a traditional Andorran house as it would have been at the start of the 20th century. The house itself was first built about 200 years ago. The very friendly guide greeted us outside and invited us in for the tour.

The hearth, and tiny kid sized chairs.

The best china and silver, only for use on Sunday.

The view from the second floor of Casa Cristo

Casa Cristo

The lower floor was for the animal to huddle in, out of the cold. There was also a cellar, with the only electric light bulb in the place, installed quite recently. The next floor had the “kitchen” and “dining” area, with the best china and silver on display, reserved for Sunday use only. The warmth from the animal down stairs and the hearth meant this was the warmest area of the house, and had the bedrooms for grandmother and the parents. The third level had an open area, the biggest in the house used for big meals with the extended family and the children’s room.

The guide explained the life they lived, not that long ago. They’d trade honey, wool, tobacco, sometimes milk for other things at the market. They’d hunt for food, and grow crops to eat and trade.

What I couldn’t workout during all this was why does Andorra exist? What was there before skiing?

In 998 (quite a while ago) the area was a gift from Count of Urgell (Spain) to the Diocese of Urgell for some land in Cerdanya – so really more of a swap. Andorra didn’t have a military, and the Bishop of Urgell was afraid the Count wanted the land back, so he sort alliances. In 1095 the Bishop signed an agreement with the Count of Foix (France) for protection, and co-sovereignty. This all got a bit testy later on with some disagreements following a crusade by the French Crown in France. A bit more mediation and another agreement was signed in 1278 declaring Andorra a sovereign nation (again) with two co-heads of state. The title of the Count of Foix has since moved the President of France, French Revolution etc. Making Andorra a country with two heads of state they have no influence over, a Bishop and a President of a foreign nation. These roles are mostly ceremonial though, with an elected legislature of 28, where the majority forms a cabinet of 7 ministers. They passed a law ensuring separation between church and state, while having a Bishop as a head of state.

But why were there people here? It’s high in the Pyrenees, and while one of the easier passes between Spain and France to negotiate I’d still take the coast or sea. The best we could figure was there was some natural resources in the way of wood, hunting, and iron, and the pass through the Pyrenees was well used.

After leaving the Casa Cristo we set back to the automobile museum. The person at reception seemed eager to test their English, and explained all he card were privately owned, and we weren’t allowed to take any photos. This was quite annoying, because there was an amazing collection of machines, going back to the late 19th century and including some very unique items including a Lancia Stratos, and a Messerschmitt “car” – which looked a lot like the cockpit of a small plane with no wings. They also had a great collection of bikes, pedal, motor and a combination of both. They even had a genuine Thai tuk tuk – mum and dad tried to read the writing on it, and decided it was in fact Thai.

After some morning tea, we caught a bus back to Andorra la Vella, and the hotel.

Later we went for a walk down the valley in the other direction from where we had been previously and managed to find Casa de la Vall built in the 1500s, and the new improved council offices. The governing council only moved into the new offices in 2011, after using Casa de la Vall since 1702.

The new Andorran parliament

The old Andorran parliament

We had a guided tour of Casa de la Vall, but weren’t allowed to take photos inside. They showed us where the government sat, and the courts (well, the one court room, where 3 judges preside over cases, there are no juries in Andorra). The guide was excellent, and gave detailed answers to a number of questions. As is traditional in Europe, they apologised for their excellent English (their third or fourth language).

Andorra is a strange place. It exists to have money spent on things, and for skiing. With a population of 85,000 they have a tourist population of over 10 million a year, Australia with a population of around 23 million had “only” 7.2 million tourists in 2015. One of the downsides of being on the way to nowhere, except maybe Antarctica and bits of New Zealand is you need to want to go to Australia and invest time and money in getting there (or out of there – something we are reminded of whenever anyone ask “Where are you from?” – they are always slightly surprised when you say Australia). Andorra is a bus ride from Barcelona, and a number of other Spanish and French places, Australia isn’t a bus ride from anywhere.

I would definitely spend more time in Andorra, in the summer again when I can afford it, and try and do some walking (hiking is a strong word) and some bike riding.

Andorra - Just like a real country, even smaller than Luxembourg This trip to Europe like the last ones started with a conversation with dad along the lines of:

[gamblelaw1510]

What to Look When Choosing a Conveyancing Solicitor?

We at Gamble Law, a leading boutique or family-oriented law firm, have been offering top-notch legal solutions in Wollongong for over 40 years. Reach us today for any help, legal advice, and more. For more information, visit – https://gamblelawestateplaning.website2.me/gamble-law/what-to-look-when-choosing-a-conveyancing-solicitor

[shirlleycoyle]

The Story of How the Australian Government Screwed Its Most Vulnerable People

This article appears in VICE Magazine's Algorithms issue, which investigates the rules that govern our society, and what happens when they're broken.

In a typical fictional dystopia, one might find a few common features: a bureaucratic government, a malevolent computer program, and an isolated and fearful public.

A version of this scenario took place in Australia between 2016, when the conservative-leaning government automated its system for raising debts against people who had received government assistance and allegedly been overpaid, and this year, when the government pledged to pay back $721 million that it stole from nearly 400,000 of the country's most vulnerable people. In total, more than 700,000 Australians received letters notifying them that the system had identified a debt that they owed, unless they could prove otherwise.

The scope of the crisis, often referred to as "robodebt," is immense. Thousands were hounded by the government and debt collectors for alleged overpayments, often from years prior and amounting to thousands of dollars, that simply did not exist. Many victims paid up, some appealed their debt, and trauma was visited upon a population. Tragically, some families attributed their loved ones' deaths by suicide to recieving robodebts, something the head of Australia's Department of Social Services denies happened to this day.

The program continued for years, despite scathing government hearings and reports. During this time, the volunteer-led campaign #NotMyDebt elevated victims' stories, activists organized a sit-in at a lawmaker's office, and a prominent legal scholar who was pushed out of their longstanding post in Australia's appeals tribunal for welfare payments lambasted the program. Legal aid groups launched successful challenges, and an ongoing class action lawsuit seeking damages was struck up in 2019.

This year, the government admitted error and the unlawful nature of nearly 400,000 debts and begun paying back the jaw-dropping amount of money that was bilked from citizens, something that promises to be a complex process. Now, Australia has to reckon with the aftermath of a disastrous implementation of automation at the intersection of austerity and unaccountable government. Here, in the words of those who were there—whether as activists, insiders, or having received a debt—is how this all happened, and what the world can learn about preventing it from happening again.

'THEY COULDN'T PAY FOR CHRISTMAS PRESENTS'

Aspects of "robodebt" existed prior to 2016, in the form of data matching (with human oversight) and even income averaging, which was reportedly used as a "last resort" in determining debts. The crisis kicked into overdrive, however, with the introduction of the Online Compliance Intervention (OCI) program, as robodebt is officially known. It was piloted in the summer of 2016 on 1,000 people and publicly announced ahead of Christmas that year as a crackdown on a massive scale: the goal was to balance the federal budget by clawing back a gobsmacking $2.3 billion from welfare recipients. The effects were felt almost immediately, as the automated system spewed out debt notices.

LYNDSEY JACKSON, chair of Electronic Frontiers Australia and co-founder of the #NotMyDebt campaign: [People] were getting phone calls from debt collectors leading up to Christmas. So it was just the rumblings of these stories that started to come out. And from that, that's how the campaign started.

ASHER WOLF, an activist who helped to organize the resistance to robodebt: People were very upset, obviously. Suddenly they couldn't pay for Christmas presents. They couldn't pay, for god's sake. Money was coming out of their accounts, [and they] are being told to pay up. And all the ministers were on holidays, so we used it as a gap to make a lot of fuss. We just made whatever media statement we wanted. Not long after that, we occupied [lawmaker Alan Tudge's office].

JACKSON: I just expected we would get 20 stories in that first month. We got 300 and about $3.5 million dollars worth of debt, just a huge volume. The stories were awful. And I guess the only thing that we could do was amplify their voices and let people feel like they were being heard.

TERRY CARNEY, professor emeritus at the University of Sydney, and former member of Australia's administrative appeals tribunal for welfare payments: I got my first case to deal with on the tribunal in, I think it was about early February.

It didn't cut the mustard, or even approach having mustard on the table. I mean, they were totally unable to provide any shred of a legal foundation. And so in late March, my decision was made finding the debt not to be lawful, and therefore I set it aside.

My estimate is that at least 200 or so other decisions, in addition to my five, were made by my colleagues on a similar basis.

JACKSON: [Within] a year, a few thousand of these letters would have been sent out.

'CLUNKY, CRAP COMPUTER SYSTEM'

By all accounts, the software underpinning the OCI scheme was extremely crude. It worked by matching data between Centrelink, the agency that processes government assistance, and the tax office, to flag discrepancies. This data matching was previously done with human oversight, but robodebt automated this to generate debt notices. It also averaged people's reported fortnightly incomes over an entire year to calculate their benefits, resulting in false debts being raised against citizens with irregular incomes. The system was iterated upon over the years; for example, in 2018, "predictive analytics" were added to resolve discrepancies likely to result in zero or low debt.

CARNEY: Debts have always been a significant part of the caseload for the tribunal. Up until the change that occurred, there was data matching. But the data matching was used in order to provide a basis for making inquiries, rather than the be all and end all in seeking to establish the debt.

WOLF: The calculator that they used, the algorithm that they used, for figuring this out is COBOL [a programming language from 1959]. It's COBOL and Excel mashed together.

JACKSON: The algorithm was crude data matching. They talk about it like it was a sophisticated thing. It was a really clunky, crap computer system that's actually multi-layered, matching with [tax office] data, but not using unique identifiers, because they didn't have them, they couldn't match that between the systems. So It was matching things like people's names and businesses and just causing all of these errors because it was done so crudely.

That was part of the human oversight process that [used to] happen, because those people knew what to look for.

CARNEY: Prior to robodebt, data matching led to debts being raised in 7 percent of all of the situations where it appeared that there might be some discrepancy… The reason that the other 93 percent were not pursued was stated on the public record because it wasn't cost effective to do so… What changed with robodebt is that the data matching was essentially automated to produce the letter, which didn't say technically that it was a debt, but it said this would be a debt, unless you can prove that this calculation is not correct.

'A TRAVESTY'

DEAN FLETCHER, Wollongong/Illawarra branch coordinator for the Australian Unemployed Workers' Union: It became an issue for me in 2017, when I got a debt notice and my partner [did] as well.

When I got the letter from the debt collectors, [I felt] overwhelming anxiety because it didn't feel like I'd been given an opportunity not only to look into it myself, but to challenge it before they sent people after me.

It was very confusing and, honestly, very isolating… If it wasn't for people like Asher and the #NotMyDebt campaign, I would have had no idea that other people were experiencing this as well.

CARNEY: It was the sheer scale of the damage and harm that was being done to such a large number of people which dwarfed anything that had happened in social security in the history of the last century.

WOLF: How do you end up with billions of dollars being stolen from people, so that people commit suicide? So that people beat their children, or beat their wives, or go hungry, or become malnourished, or lose their house, or sell the family car? Terrible things happened.

JACKSON: Thousands of people have been traumatized. They haven't passed away, but they have been traumatized because they have been stressed, and they have lost homes, and they have not been able to have food on their table.

CARNEY: We pay very low rates of Social Security in Australia at best, and we have high rates within that population of people with mental illness and other vulnerabilities.

$721 billion, three-quarters of a billion dollars of unlawful debts, or taxes, if you like, were being imposed on these most vulnerable people. Three-quarters of a billion [dollars], nearly 400,000 people. In some cases, a person had more than one such debt. That's a travesty. It's among the most egregious actions that our government can be involved in.

'BURN SHIT DOWN'

Now, the robodebt program is mired in scandal, legal issues, and calls for a royal commission into how it all came to pass. As it stands, the recovery of debts raised using income averaging has been paused, and the government is in the process of paying back debts raised using that method. However, the saga is not over: a class action lawsuit is looming, and the government intends to continue raising debts "with further proof points" to improve accuracy. So far, plans include continuing data-matching with the tax office, but with more granular pay information and user options.

When reached for comment, Services Australia pointed Motherboard towards recent comments made by government officials, a Senate submission document, and an online FAQ page.

CARNEY: There's an administrative challenge for the government in delivering the [robodebt] repayments. They say that they're confident that they have now collected enough of that information, but they concede that there are significant numbers of people who are going to be obliged to update their bank account details, because everything is done in Australia electronically and has been for quite a while. So there's that issue… There are problems for anybody who settled a case. The issues like that have an administrative complexity that ultimately should all come out in the wash, but that's going to cause trauma for people for another several months.

WOLF: [Debts are] still being raised. Not using the same data matching form, but still being raised.

And then it's still a huge number of people who are not in the class action… They haven't applied for any of this.

FLETCHER: I think it's really endemic of much larger issues, number one: how Australian society treats welfare recipients.

JACKSON: [Some] think that this same [automation] technology is like a panacea, and something that will bring fast problems to complex issues. It's really quite dangerous.

WOLF: We dehumanize people through algorithms, and that will always lead to disastrous outcomes as long as we don't have accountability measures that are both specific and focused on a human element of accountability. There was no accountability within the system. Everybody was atomized. Nobody knew who to contact. Nobody knew that it was happening to other people. And the only way to fight these systems is to band together. So, you have to find other people that you can talk to about it.

If algorithms are hurting your people, killing your people, burn shit down.

Follow Jordan Pearson on Twitter.

The Story of How the Australian Government Screwed Its Most Vulnerable People syndicated from https://triviaqaweb.wordpress.com/feed/