In February at the South West TAFE, Judge Bowman launched a new online resource aimed at changing the way students think about the law.

Located at www.lawhandbook.org.au/education/ the Education Portal offers fascinating case studies that help students understand the law’s role in addressing social issues.

This project has been created by the Fitzroy Legal Service, ans is supported and promoted in South West Victoria by Warrnambool’s Centre for Human Rights and Social Justice.

Using background notes, lesson plans and role plays, the case studies introduce students to concepts of democratic debate and community advocacy in law-making.

“The Education Portal will give students a practical introduction to the law and how students as citizens can participate in social justice,” says Robin Inglis, the executive officer of the Fitzroy Legal Service, who also attended the launch.

“We think this site will inspire students to get involved in social justice and what it means to have and use our human rights in daily life,” he said.

The Education Portal also features a directory of the educational services offered by community legal centres, the Courts, parliament and government agencies.

It is part of the Law Handbook online, which is produced by the Fitzroy Legal Service reaches more than 1500 people every day.

The Centre for Human Rights and Social Justice is a Warrnambool-based provider of legal, advocacy and support services for a range of law and tenancy issues in South West Victoria. It is located at 79 Liebig St and can be contacted by calling 1300 361 680.