The federal government is facing criticism for its decision to fund Tasmania's Aboriginal Legal Service by paying money to its Victorian counterpart.
Attorney-General George Brandis made the decision after holding an open tender process, through which the Victorian Aboriginal Legal Service "clearly demonstrated their capacity to deliver legal assistance services in Tasmania".
There has been no cut to funding and Tasmania will receive more than $11.7 million over five years for Indigenous legal assistance as part of the new arrangement, a spokesman for Senator Brandis said.
But Tasmanian Labor, the Greens and some local Aboriginal groups are scathing of the move, with shadow attorney-general Lara Giddings calling on Canberra to reverse the decision, arguing it is critical that the Aboriginal community is represented by experienced lawyers and local people from their own community.
"No other service will be able to provide the holistic support as is provided through the Tasmanian Aboriginal Centre, which brings together legal, health and community support in a one-stop-shop environment," she said.
Senator's Brandis's spokesman said an advisory committee will be established to guide the strategic direction of Aboriginal Legal Service of Tasmania.
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