Legal: Atelete Hifoileva Manufekai (BNLLB/GDLP) Bachelor of Nursing Bachelor of Laws (LLB Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice (GDLP) Currently studying Masters of Law (LLM). How blessed PISSAM program, the Pacific Islanders community are to have a Lawyer who is also a registered Nurse combining her expertise to handle the most needy Pacific Islanders across Canterbury and beyond; She is so keen and looking forward to get this started so that there's some help out there for our Pacific Islands Communities who are crying for help in these difficult areas. As she has spent her growing up in New Zealand, she knows that this kind of setting is already established in New Zealand because the Pacific Island communities are very strong there. She knows that majority Pacific Islanders in Australia are Pacific Islanders from New Zealand seeking greener pastors in Australia. She strongly believes that grassroots specialists looking after Pacific Islanders, issues will help reduce violence and numbers of young people going to jail. She says that we really need something here for our people in Australia. She welcome and is very happy to be the leader on her specialist areas and she is determining to fill those gaps in these areas. She hopes and eager to get started and she can’t wait to make a change and a difference to the Pacific Islanders across Canterbury and beyond. PISSAM program is confidence that Atelete’s expertise on health and law will take the lives of reoffending Pacific Islanders’ Youth and families to the next level. Manufekai vast experiences have taken her from across the Tasman to Australia and PISSAM program is so proud of having her. Manufekai will talk on legal issues on air once a week.

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Mt Druitt police report the youth crimes in the area.

Pacific Islanders Aggravated Robbery, Armed with intent, Assault, Traffic and Property theft.

13%: Aboriginal

02% Torres Strait Islanders

Custodial sentences Assault

2006 2007 2008

52% 57% 50% Caucasians

9% 13% 21% Pacific Islanders

25% 18% 21% Aboriginal

Robbery

2006 2007 2008

27% 0% Caucasians

9% 50% Pacific Islanders

64% 50% Aboriginal

Statistics from Juvenile Justice:

Total Pacific Islander in Custody – 60 young persons

Total Pacific Islander in Community – 137 young persons

· Other relevant indicators are :

· The Department of Education and Training has reported on the increasing number of students from Pacific families and communities who are truanting, dropping out of schools, demonstrating other difficult behavioral problems, bullying, stealing, withdrawal, neglect, anger, not doing their allocated tasks and others.

Catholic Schools has reported to PISSAM Executive officer Kalo Sikimeti similar concern with the Department of Education with Pacific Islanders students attended their Catholic schools system. Here are some of their concerns:

· Australian born Pacific Islander children are experiencing identity crises and low self esteem.

· Half Pacific Islanders children are confused which way to go.

· Parent that married Pacific Islanders are confused, shocked by the cultures and tradition and in some cases they ended up in separation or divorced. This causes more traumas on the children.

· The donations given to Pacific Islanders congregation leaders are major factors of the above issues.

· The Pacific Islanders Island of origin constant coming looking for donations is a concern.

· Another great bridge was crossed in the events of the World Youth day. Let us not forget the great wave of goodwill that has been unleashed across our community on World Youth day, the feeling of belonging, the equal shares on enjoyment, cultures and traditional beliefs and bringing every youth to the occasions were moving but that was last year and is already forgotten. After the world youth day a lot of babies were born to young girls still going to school and are now single mothers facing the responsibilities of being a parent at very young age.

Now we are back to square one and everything has been forgotten and back to basic with the usual fabric of cultures and tradition that goes on in the Pacific Island community.

Since the Pacific Islanders settlement from New Zealand I believe we have finally concluded that this great challenge transcends ideology – to what government support and what services we will deliver will take Pacific Islanders forward.

Adults Pacific islanders men and women offenders in Australia: 2009

January up to 3/12/2009

TOTAL 179 (2009) TIMES 13.7 OFFENDERS

TOTAL 60 (2008) 5 MORE OFFENDERS

TOTAL 55 (2007) TIMES 4 OFFENDERS

TOTAL 13 (2006)

Date State Title Name(s) - Description(s) Image Links

Dec 03VICTeens questioned over alleged pack rapeDark SkinImageArticle
Dec 02QLDSuspicious activity, assault, Upper Mount GravattPacific Islander Image Article
Nov 30QLDMan 'disappointed' at failure to behead friendSialaoa FaoluaN/AArticle
Nov 30NTMan arrested for possessing kava at Darwin AirportTonganN/AArticle
Nov 26SAImmigrant stabbed man in car crashArtan HasaniN/AArticle
Nov 26WAGroup attacks teen in MirrabookaDark skinnedN/AArticle
Nov 26WAGroup attacks teen in MirrabookaDark skinnedN/AArticle
Nov 26NSWTeenage girl sexually assaulted after school formalPacific Islander appearanceN/AArticle
Nov Nov 24VICWoman accused of bashing an 88-year-old war veteranRose Denise appearanceN/AArticle
Nov 23QLDStealing with violence, Spring HillAboriginal or Pacific Islander appearanceN/
Nov 22VICArmed robbery in Albert ParkDark skinN/AArticle
Nov 20WAElderly Rockingham couple bashedDark skinnedN/AArticle
Nov 19VICFake cops steal jewellery, cashDark skinnedN/AArticle
Fortitude ValleyPacific Islander appearanceN/AArticle
Nov 13WABurglars beat, rob womanDark skinnedN/AArticle
Nov 13NSWChild approached - VillawoodDark skinN/AArticle
Nov 04NSWSerious assault and car theft – St LeonardsPacific Islander appearanceN/AArticle
Oct 31 NSW Teenage girl grabbed and threatened with a knife Asian or Pacific Islander appearance Article
Oct 27 QLD Taxi cam films men wanted for cab robbery Islander appearance Image Article
Oct 25 QLD Grievous bodily harm, Townsville Pacific Islander in appearance N/A Article
Oct 24 QLD Robbery, Enoggera Pacific Islander appearance N/A Article
Oct 24 WA Men stab girl in stomach Sudanese N/A Article
Oct 24 QLD Armed robbery, Kangaroo Point Islander appearance N/A Article
Oct 23 QLD Fiji-born brothers refused appeal over gang rape Fijian N/A Article
Oct 20 WA Man accused of indecently assaulting teens Taitura Ngakiri N/A Article
Oct 19 VIC Police hunt man after woman indecently assaulted Dark skinned N/A Article
ct 15 NT Former prison guard faces court over soldier's glassing Te Tuhi Puru Westrupp Article
Oct 15 WA Woman woken by burglar Dark skinned N/A Article
Oct 13 VIC Bag snatch victim at railway station kicked in face Dark-skinned Image Article
Oct 10 WA 72-year-old woman bashed for nothing tanned complexion Image Article
Oct 09 NSW Teenage girl detained and threatened by a man Asian or Pacific Islander appearance Article
Oct 07 NSW NRL player charged over 'knife attack' Stanley Waqa Image Article
Oct 06 NSW Armed robbery - Bradbury Pacific Islander appearance N/A Article
Oct 05 NSW Robbery - Bass Hill Pacific Islander in appearance N/A Article
Oct 04QLDBurglary, Victoria PointPacific Islander in appearanceN/Article
Oct arrested in Tonga Mohammad Fahda Image Article
Oct 02NSWMan pleads not guilty to backpacker bashingThomas IsaakoN/AArticle
30QLDAttempted armed robbery, KurabyPacific Islander in appearanceN/AArticle
Sep 23 NSWRoosters star Setaimata Sa 'bashes' female copSetaimata SaImageArticle
Sept 21 NSWWoman 'raped on RSL courtesy bus'Teina TokaN/Article
Sep 15 QLD Men sought over rail attacks Islander appearance Image Article
Sep 15 QLD Burglar tries to strangle woman in her Redland Bay home Pacific Islanders
Sep 09 NSW Robbers slash newsagent's face and break his nose Pacific Islander in Article
Sep 09 NSW Attempted armed robbery - Revesby Pacific Islander appearance N/A Articl
Sep 07 QLD Armed robbery, Stafford Islander in appearance
Sep 04 QLD Man arrested after shovel used in killing Faimanifo Sione N/A Articl e
Sep 03 QLD Machete used in adult store robbery Pacific Islander in appearance N/A
Sep 02 NSW Robber shot by police, robbing Canley Heights Hotel Tavita Taufahema Article
Aug 31NSW Footy star facing hotel ruckus charges Setaimata Sa Image Article
Aug 31 QLD Attempted armed robbery, Kuraby Pacific Islander appearance N/A Article
Aug 28 QLD Armed robbery, Slacks Creek Pacific Islander appearance N/A Article
Aug 28 SA Penis fire led to death, court told Rajini Narayan(Fijian) N/A Article
Aug 28 QLD Armed robbery, Slacks Creek Pacific Islander appearance N/A Article
Aug 27NSW Four accused in shot-cop hotel Silivesiteli Fusipunga Lopeti, Tevi Koloamatangi,article
Aug 24 NSW Robberies and serious assaults - Blacktown Pacific Islander appearance Article
Aug 22 QLD Woman caught stealing Kopu Nanua Pacific Islander N/A Article
Aug 19 QLD Man jailed for 13 years for drug trafficking Morteza Kashani-Malaki N/A Article
Aug 18 NSW Fast food restaurant robbed – St Marys Pacific Islander appearance N/A Article
Aug 16 NSW Sydney hotel robbery and siege Tevi Koloamatangi N/A Article mage
Aug 09 QLD Armed robbery, Runaway Bay Islander appearance N/A Article
Aug 05 VIC Police investigate indecent assault at Laburnum Dark complexion Image Article
Aug 05 NSW Notorious member on child pornography offenceM/Eastern&Pacific Is Gang Article
Jul 30 QLD Blind man's jaw broken in Brisbane's Queen Street Mall Samoan-born Kevin Paisa, Frank Joseph Ulai Article
Jul 28 VIC Woman punched in face, robbed Dark skinned Image Article
Jul 28 NSW Armed men storm Northern beaches restaurant Pacific Islander appearance
Jul 27 QLD Robbery, Brisbane City Pacific Islander in appearance N/a
July 21 QLD Accused killers high, court told Malakai Lui Pacific Islander Tongan N/A

    23. Jul 20   NSW   Police officer shot: accused in court   Tevi Koloamatangi      N/A     Article
    24. Jul 20   NSW   Accused brawler locked up    Palcon Sami    N/A     Article
25. Jul 20   QLD    Family torcher jailed   Eccles Tomken Mara   Image Article
26.Jul 17   NSW   Armed robbery, Marsden        Pacific Islander in appearance            N/A     Article
27. Jul 16 NSW   Six youths charged with robbery in company – Bankstown Islander appearance     Article

28. Jul 16 VIC Three Pacific Islanders in court over fatal tourist bashing Sioeli Seau, Fostar Akoteu, Jacob Palutele N/A Article

29. Jul 15 NSW Police looking for masked armed robbers – Smithfield Pacific Islander appearance, Asian appearance N/A Article

30. Jul 14 QLD Attempted convenience store robbery Pacific Islander in appearance N/A Article

31. Jul 14 VIC Men brutally bashed in home invasion Maori or Pacific Islander appearance N/A Article

32. Jul 13 NT Soldier tells of losing his eye after Darwin nightclub glassing Te Tuhi Puru Westrupp N/A Article

33. Jul 12 NSW John Ibrahim top guard snared in drug raid Semi Ngata Tongan Image Article

34. Jul 09 QLD Armed robbery, Rochedale Pacific Islander appearance N/A Article

35. Jul 04 QLD Gang culture feared Pacific Islander and Maori youths N/A Article

36. Jun 28 QLD Armed robbery, Kingston Pacific Islander appearance N/A Article

37. Jun 28 QLD Liquor store robbery, Runcorn Pacific Islander appearance N/A Article

38. Jun 27 QLD Thieves wield syringe and gun in overnight hold ups Pacific Islander appearance N/A Article

39. Jun 25 QLD Armed robbery, Moorooka Pacific Islander appearance N/A Article

40. Jun 22 NSW Armed robbery at grocery store - Westmead Pacific Islander, Mediterranean / Middle Eastern appearance N/A Article

41. Jun 18 VIC Storm player pleads guilty to drunken Melbourne attack Arana Taumata Image Article

42. Jun 12 QLD Armed robbery, Morningside Aboriginal or Pacific Islander in appearance N/A Article

43. Jun 10 QLD Armed robbery, Kingston Maori or Islander in appearance N/A Article

44. Jun 09 QLD Armed robbery, Robina Islander appearance N/A Article

45. Jun 08 NSW Homeless man threw a rock Lionel Kauone N/A Article

46. Jun 08 QLD Armed robbery Pacific Islander appearance N/A Article

47. Jun 07 QLD Assistance sought, armed robbery suspect, Brisbane Pacific Islander in appearance N/A Article

48. Jun 06 QLD Man wanted for Brisbane robbery spree Pacific Islander appearance N/A Article

49. Jun 04 QLD Attempted armed robbery, Daisy Hill Islander in appearanc N/A Article

50. Jun 03 VIC Man needed 33 stiches after being glassed Pacific Islanders Image Article

51. Jun 03 QLD Armed robbery, Marsden Islander appearance N/A Article

52. Jun 03 WA Accused people smugglers in court Jamil Muhammad, Samsul Lalu, Faisal Muhammad, Aditia Muhamad, Awal N/A Article

53. Jun 02 QLD Jail for shoving cabbie after footy booze-up Patana Elisaia N/A Article

54. May 31 QLD Taxi driver robbed, Cairns Indigenous appearance N/A Article

55. May 28 NSW Man bashed and robbed at Newcastle bus stop Pacific Islander or Aboriginal N/A Article

56. May 26 VIC Police hunt two over robberies Islander N/A Article

57. May 20 NSW Intruders armed with claw hammers Pacific Islander appearance N/A Article

58. May 20 QLD Armed robbery, Greenslopes Pacific Islander appearance N/A Article

59. May 20 QLD New Zealand born man caught looking at child pornography at a public internet cafe Jann Terence Haki Rakatua N/A Article

60. May 20 QLD New Zealand born car ram killing charged with murder Lui Ponita N/A Article

61. May 19 NSW Machetes, handgun used in armed raids Pacific Islander appearance N/A Article

62. May 19 NSW Masked men enter homes with gun, hammer Pacific Islander appearance N/A Article

63. May 17 ACT Police hunt supermarket assault trio Pacific Islander appearance N/A Article

64. May 17 NSW Ccouple robbed at gunpoint in driveway - Leumeah Pacific Islander appearance N/A Article

65. May 14 VIC Aggravated Burglary - Cranbourne West Dark skin Image Article

66. May 14 WA Rugby row erupts Maori or islander appearance N/A Article

67. May 12 NSW Dance party ends in brawl Asian and Pacific Islander in appearance N/A Article

68. May 10 NSW Aggravated robbery – Redfern Aboriginal or Pacific Islander appearance N/A Article

69. May 06 QLD Robbery with violence, Redcliffe Pacific Islander appearance N/A Article

70. May 05 NSW Sought to identify man in robbery - Wentworthville Pacific Islander appearance N/A May 01 NSW Brawling teens overrun railway car park - Image Article

71. Apr 29 NSW Two stabbed following fight - Hurlstone Park Mediterranean / Middle Eastern appearance N/A Article

72. Apr 24 VIC Police hunt man over sexual assault in Resevoir Dark complexion Image Article

73. Apr 22 NSW Armed robbery of fast food outlet - Merrylands Pacific Islander appearance N/A Article

74. Apr 21 QLD Armed robbers used employee's car as getaway Very dark skin Image Article

75. Apr 19 NSW NRL stars charged over brawl Masada Iosefa, Michael Jennings Image Article

76. Apr 13 ACT Witnesses sought to stairwell robbery Islander in appearance N/A Article

77. Apr 12 QLD Armed robbery, Mermaid Beach Pacific Islander in appearance N/A Article

78. Apr 10 QLD Woman bashed for her handbag Pacific Islander appearance N/A Article

79. Apr 09 VIC Man threatened with a sword Islander appearance N/A Article

80. Apr 09 NSW Bank Robbery - Leichhardt Pacific Islander or Aboriginal / Torres Strait Islander appearance N/A Article

81. Apr 07 QLD Woman groped her from behind Pacific Islander in appearance N/A Article

82. Apr 04 NSW Armed Hells Angel pulled over in traffic Islander appearance N/A Article

83. Apr 03 NSW Guard bashed, weapons stolen in armoured van hold-up Pacific Islander appearance N/A Article

84. Mar 31 QLD Man charged over Qld rail station fire Siose Ken Taulaga N/A Article

85. Mar 28 VIC Man charged over fatal stabbing in Melbourne Tao Va N/A Article

86. Mar 26 QLD Keperra newsagent fights off armed robber Islander appearance N/A Article

87. Mar 21 NSW Islander and African gangs rob people in Newcastle African and Islander N/A Article

88. Mar 10 QLD Armed robbery, Woodridge Islander appearance Image Article

89. Mar 10 QLD Assault and robbery, Kangaroo Point Pacific Islander in appearance N/A Article

90. Mar 03 NSW Teens plead guilty over Trinity Catholic College rampage Islander appearance (check video for race) N/A Article Tongan

91. Mar 02 NSW Home invasion / robbery Pacific Islander appearance N/A Article

92. Feb 27 QLD Medicare cards used to set up fake identities Kigi Kamuta N/A Article

93. Feb 26 WA Assault with intent to rob Aboriginal / Islander appearance Image Article

94. Feb 18 VIC Armed robbery - Heidelberg Aboriginal appearance N/A Article

95. Feb 06 ACT Police appeal for witnesses to Civic assault Pacific Islander appearance N/A Article

96. Feb 06 QLD Robbery with violence, Runcorn Islander appearance N/A Article

97. Feb 04 WA Identity sought in relation to robbery Olive complexion Image Article

98. Feb 03 WA East Fremantle Sex Assault Dark complexion Image Article

99. Feb 03 VIC Melbourne Storm sacked over drunken altercation Arana Taumata Image Article

100. Feb 01 NSW Police release description of person in relation to shooting Pacific Island appearance N/A Article

101. Jan 28 WA Knife used in Fremantle robbery Dark skin Image Article

102. Jan 28 NSW Home invasion - Colyton Pacific Islander appearance N/A Article

103. Jan 20 QLD Nine males charged over bashing death Pacific islander descent N/A Article

104. Jan 20 NSW Man assaulted, woman threatened at gunpoint Islander appearance N/A Article

105. Jan 18 NSW Police seek help after station attack Dark skin Image Article

106. Jan 15 VIC Burglar strips naked to prove he's not packing Dark appearance Image Article

107. Jan 15 VIC Mother caught driving with six unrestrained children Elaine Ulutui Image Article

108. Jan 13 VIC Two men rob newsagency and two post offices Islander descent N/A Article

109. Jan 12 VIC Man caught trying to escape detention centre Vietnamese N/A Article

110. Jan 11 SA Hunt for trio after sexual assault Aboriginal appearance N/A Article

111. Jan 09 SA Illegal workers to be deported after raid north of Adelaide Malaysian N/A Article

112. Jan 09 QLD Armed robbery, Mt Isa Pacific Islander in appearance N/A Article

113. Jan 07 QLD Boxer accused of biting lip off girlfriend Ken Pae Seiuli N/A Article

114. Jan 07 WA Witness sought to Rockingham assault Maori appearance N/A Article

115. Jan 04 NSW Woman indecently assaulted Pacific Islander appearance N/A Article

Total 179 (2009)

NSW VIC QLD SA WA TOTAL 2008

Date State Title Name(s) - Description(s) Image Links

1. Dec 29 QLD Armed robbery, Beenleigh Pacific Islander appearance N/A Article

2. Dec 29 QLD Bashed tourist fights for life Maori descent Image Article

3. Dec 28 NSW Shots fired - Allawah Pacific Islander appearance N/A Article

4. Dec 27 SA Sleeping husband who had his genitals set on fire dies Rajini Narayan N/A Article

5. Dec 27 VIC Sudanese charged over stabbing murder Stephen Tito N/A Article

6. Dec 19 NT Glassing victim to lose job (victim image) Te Tuhi Puru Westrupp N/A Article

7. Dec 18 QLD 15-year-old girl assaulted Dark complexion Image Article

8. Dec 16 WA Indecent Dealing - Hillary's Boat Harbour Islander / Maori decent Image Article

9. Dec 14 NSW Man charged over karaoke bar brawl Pacific Islander and Asian N/A Article

10. Dec 13 QLD Bouncer put behind bars Peter Faatiga Matautia Image Article

11. Dec 09 QLD Bouncer claims self defence in pub bashing Tevita Fifita N/A Article

12. Nov 28 QLD Accused driver of fatal crash on the run Islander appearance Image Article

13. Nov 15 NSW Samoan mother and son from hell Samoan N/A Article

14. Nov 11 NSW Samoan Rugby League supporter charged with assault Samoan N/A Article

15. Nov 09 VIC Man charged over stabbing murder Ha Piliu N/A Tongan Article

16. Oct 25 NSW Brothers bashed by 10 men in Burwood park Pacific Island appearance N/A Article

17. Oct 20 NSW Photographer attacked outside school rampage trial (victim image) Islander N/A Article

18. Oct 17 NSW Police hunt baby-faced basher Kane Desmond Tupuolamoui Image Article

19. Oct 09 NSW Man assaults teen girl Pacific Islander appearance N/A Article

20. Oct 07 NSW Six pacific islanders assault police officer Pacific Islander appearance N/A Article

21. Sep 30 ACT Police seek indecent assault witnesses African, Asian and Polynesian appearance N/A Article

22. Sep 19 VIC Baseball bat rampage at Keilor Downs College Maori appearance N/A Article

23. Sep 18 QLD Islander bandit terrorises adult shop Pacific Islander appearance N/A Article

24. Sep 17 NSW Irish bashing victim flown back to Ireland Pacific Islander appearance N/A Article

25. Sep 15 NSW Mother admits starving her son on religious grounds Tongan N/A Article

26. Sep 15 QLD Former football player stabbed by mugger (victim image) Islander appearance N/A Article

27. Sep 11 QLD Cowboy’s player charged after nightclub incident Sione Faumuina Image Article

28. Aug 30 NSW Police hunt Sydney train rapist Pacific Islander appearance N/A Article

29. Aug 27 NSW Islander bashing suspects caught on film Pacific Islander Image Article

30. Aug 25 WA Disabled international student bashed Dark-skinned Image Article

31. Aug 24 NSW Man critical after Sydney bashing Pacific Islander appearance N/A Article

32. Aug 07 QLD Two men, one armed with knife, rob Night Owl Polynesian appearance N/A Article

33. Jul 29 NSW Teenager assaulted & robbed by Islanders Pacific Islander appearance N/A Article

34. Jun 16 NSW New gang patrols Kings Cross streets Middle Eastern and Pacific Islander N/A Article

35. Jun 04 NSW Islanders kill dog in violent home invasion Pacific Islander appearance N/A Article

36. May 30 QLD Gold Coast bus driver punched over ticket dispute Aboriginal or Pacific Islander appearance N/A Article

37. May 29 ACT Three dark girls bash woman at shopping centre - N/A Article

38. May 23 QLD Police hunt naked intruder Islander appearance N/A Article

39. May 18 NSW Three stabbed at Tongan wedding reception in Lidcombe Middle Eastern appearance and Tongan N/A Article

40. May 17 NSW Islander gang attacks Telstra workers Islander appearance N/A Article

41. May 15 NSW Islander waits in queue, then robs post office Pacific Islander appearance N/A Article

42. May 07 NSW Bar-fight killer to walk free (victim image) Joseph Leota, Etuate Taiseni, Taniela Motuapuaka,

43. Amaniasi Tuifua N/A Article

44. May 02 ACT Mawson robbery; offender sought Middle Eastern or Polynesian in appearance N/A Article

45. Apr 08 NSW Islander gang rampages through Sydney high school Pacific Islander appearance N/A Article

46. Mar 18 QLD Stranger borrows mobile then steals backpack Pacific Islander appearance Image Article

47. Mar 13 QLD Imported AFL recruit faces court over bashing robbery Bergmann Talingapua Image Article

48. Mar 02 WA Three boys rolled by two invaders Maori and Asian appearance N/A Article

49. Feb 27 VIC Mean streets of Melbourne Sudanese / Pacific Islanders N/A Article

50. Feb 20 NSW NRL stars fined for peeing in public Anthony Tupou, Willie Mason Image Article

51. Feb 11 NSW Car stolen at gunpoint Pacific Islander appearance N/A Article

52. Feb 09 NSW Three slashed in Bondi bottle attack Pacific Islander appearance N/A Article

53. Feb 04 NSW Racial tensions behind weekend street brawl Samoans and Aborigines N/A Article

54. Jan 31 QLD Pervert postie delivered his own ‘package’ Raymond Toa Vaele N/A Article

55. Jan 28 QLD Islanders behind crime spree Islander appearance N/A Article

56. Jan 28 VIC Islander wanted over Melbourne pub robbery Islander appearance N/A Article

57. Jan 28 NSW Armed carjacking trio’s bank raid flop Pacific Islander in appearance N/A Article

58. Jan 06 QLD Cowboys player to be questioned over bashing David Faiumu Image Article

59. Jan 03 NSW Man punched and robbed for his mobile Islander appearance Image Article

60. Jan 02 QLD Two men robbed at knifepoint in Sunnybank Islander appearance N/A Article

NSW VIC QLD SA WA TOTAL 60 (2008)

2007

Date State Title Name(s) - Description(s) Image Links

1. Dec 27 QLD Islander punched man over a game of football Issako Junior Tuato N/A Article

2. Dec 22 NSW Serial lawbreaker to be deported Patricia Carol Toia Image Article

3. Dec 20 NSW Islander wanted over convenience store robbery Pacific Islander appearance N/A Article

4. Dec 13 NSW Cop killer jailed seven years John Taufahema Image Article

5. Nov 27 NSW Cabbie convicted of sexually assaulting passengers Leslie Liu Image Article

6. Nov 18 QLD Tavern employee assaulted and robbed Pacific Islander in appearance N/A Article

7. Nov 14 VIC Fifty African attack police outside dance party African / Pacific Islanders Image Article

8. Nov 13 QLD Ethnic students belt it out at Benowa High School Muslim / Maori N/A Article

9. Nov 10 QLD Brisbane hit by race gang wars Pacific Islander, African, Vietnamese, Indigenous N/A

10. Nov 08 WA Aboriginal and Maori thugs clash in Perth Aborigines and Maori N/A Article

11. Nov 08 QLD Two Islanders wanted over random attack Islander appearance Image Article

12. Nov 08 QLD Islanders wanted over IGA store robbery Pacific Islander appearance N/A Article

13. Nov 08 VIC Arab denied bail over nightclub gun incident Hassan Abdallah N/A Article

14. Nov 06 VIC Asian invader wanted over violent service station robbery Asian appearance N/A Oct 29 NSW Pacific Islanders and Asians brawl in Chinatown Pacific Islanders / Asians Image

15. Oct 27 NSW Islander wanted over Sydney armed robbery Tongan Tevita Kupu N/A Article

16. Oct 08 NSW Hotel manager ‘tied up’ in hotel robbery Pacific Islander appearance N/A Article

17. Sep 23 VIC Polynesian gang bashing people ‘for fun’ Polynesians N/A Article

18. Sep 19 NSW ‘Hit and run’ P-plater released on bail Rangi Akuira Rehu N/A Article

19. Sep 10 NSW Seven Islanders wanted over Sydney gang attack Pacific Islander in appearance N/A Article

20. Sep 03 QLD Cabbie basher faces court Patana Arama Elisaia N/A Article

21. Sep 03 WA Kiwi footballer goes on violent rampage during game Ropati Logouii Image Article

22. Aug 31 NSW Invader jailed seven years over police shooting Motekai Taufahema, John Taufahema, Meli Lagi, Sione Penisini N/A Article

23. Aug 30 NSW Fijian detainee escapes from Villawood Fijian N/A Article

24. Jul 26 NSW Four plead guilty to publican’s death (victim image) Joseph Leota, Etuate Taiseni, Amaniasi Tuifua, Taniela Motuapuaka N/A Article

25. Jul 15 NSW Police shut down out of control Sydney rave Pacific Islander appearance N/A Article

26. Jul 12 NSW Bulldogs player convicted of drink driving Ben Roberts Image Article

27. Jul 09 NSW Vietnamese, Sudanese and Tongans clash at birthday party Vietnamese, Sudanese and Tongan origin N/A Article

28. Jul 04 NSW Mercedes stolen at gunpoint Pacific Islander appearance N/A Article

29. Jun 25 NSW Non-white invader charged over violent crash Poasa Logoua Image Article

30. Jun 20 QLD Invader fined for stealing Aisa Salesa Image Article

31. Jun 18 NSW Bulldog players in trouble again Sonny Bill Williams, Ben Roberts Image Article

32. Jun 08 QLD Attempted sexual assault Maori or Pacific Islander appearance N/A Article

33. May 29 NSW Cop killer gets charges ‘downgraded’ (victim image) Motekiai Taufahema N/A Article

34. May 19 VIC Non-white invader charged over Geelong gang rape Pacific Islander appearance Image Article

35. May 14 NSW Security guard assaulted during robbery Pacific Islander appearance N/A Article

36. May 12 QLD 75-year-old attacked with cricket bat (victim image) Maori or Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander appearance N/A Article

37. May 09 NSW Family terrorised by home invaders Pacific Islander appearance N/A Article

38. May 09 VIC Woman sexually assaulted in home Olive complexion Image Article

39. May 07 NSW Former boxer arrested over pub fight Tongan Maile Haumono Image Article

40. Apr 20 QLD Pacific Islanders rob golf club Pacific Islander appearance N/A Article

41. Mar 27 QLD Man critical after car park attack Maori or Pacific Islander appearance N/A Article

42. Mar 22 QLD Store robbed at knifepoint Islander appearance N/A Article

43. Mar 18 NSW Taxi driver robbed at gunpoint Pacific Islander appearance N/A Article

44. Mar 16 NSW Man stabbed during robbery Pacific Islander appearance N/A Article

45. Mar 16 VIC Non-white pervert on the loose Dark skin Image Article

46. Mar 13 NSW Woman stabbed by intruder Maumaga Leiataua N/A Article

47. Feb 28 NSW Dragons player to serve time in jail Wes Naiqama Image Article

48. Feb 18 NSW Maoris and Asians clash in violent brawl Frank Pritchard, Maoris vs 10 Asian males N/A Article

49. Feb 13 WA Bouncer charged over attack Jeremy Solomon Kingi N/A Article

50. Jan 20 NSW Pacific Islanders rob and bash man at bus stop Pacific Islander appearance N/A Article

51. Jan 19 VIC Police hunt Asian flasher Olive skin Image Article

52. Jan 18 NSW Man bashed in Sydney carjacking Middle Eastern and Pacific Islander appearance N/A Article

53. Jan 15 NSW Two arrested over molotov cocktails found in car Etuale Josefo N/A Article

54. Jan 15 NSW Islanders rob bottle shop and attack shop worker Pacific Islander appearance N/A Article

55. Jan 11 QLD Non-white invaders rob Caltex 2 Islanders / 1 Asian in appearance Image Article

NSW 30 VIC QLD SA WA TOTAL 55 (2007)

2006

Date State Title Name(s) - Description(s) Image Links

1. Dec 23 NSW Fijian arrested over nine month old baby’s fatal stabbing Jayant Kumar Singh Image Article

2. Dec 21 QLD Bag snatcher jailed Fassala Sam Matue N/A Article

3. Dec 18 NSW NRL Player faces sack after night-club incident Wes Naiqama Image Article

4. Oct 23 QLD Man tries to abduct two women on the Gold Coast Maori or Pacific Islander appearance N/A Article

5. Oct 07 NSW Fijian woman arrested over meat cleaver attack Fijian N/A Article

6. Sep 28 NSW Irish tourist in a coma after being bashed by Islanders (victim image) Pacific Islander appearance N/A Article

7. Aug 23 NSW Manly footballer charged with hotel assault Steve Matai Image Article

8. Aug 17 NSW Bulldog player banned for drink driving Reni Maitua Image Article

9. Aug 16 NSW Armed pub hold up in Sydney Pacific Islander appearance N/A Article

10. Aug 05 VIC Cross dressing bank robber jailed Nino Leo Lanu N/A Article

11. Aug 02 QLD Six Islanders assaulted and robbed a man Islander appearance N/A Article

12. Jul 29 NSW Tevita Latu ordered to leave England Tevita Latu Image Article

13. Jul 17 QLD Two brothers charged for stabbing Leon Sapati Valusaga, Daniel Makesi Valusaga N/A Article

NSW 8 QLD 4 VIC 1 TOTAL 13 (2006)

The PISSAM PROGRAM are eager to embrace a new approach.

An evidence-based approach, where two questions come before all others.

One, what is most needed to close the gap in the Pacific Islanders community?

And two, what works best to meet that need in each local and general community where most of the Pacific Islanders are located?

Expectations that change would be a way forward to us Pacific Islanders and there will be results.

Slowly but Surely.

But Pacific Islanders disadvantage cannot be turned around overnight.

Some say that little has happened because we Pacific Islanders have to change to a life of education, hard work, discipline, participation, elevate strengths, contribution, Social, Community Development and healthy lifestyle.

But that is not the case. A new approach, Current Research, children, parents, school Professionals, and Specialist, experienced; quality people to lead Pacific Islanders to the Next Level.

Has Progress has been made? No as we have seen in the Statistic we are the worse off, in juvenile, jails PI are over represented and PI are the highest according to our population. Our population is just over 55,000 Pacific Islanders in NSW. Still, we outdo other communities in committing crimes than any other communities in NSW, QLD and Victoria

Houses are being built, more money goes to agencies that provide services to Pacific Islanders and in most cases the services provided are not viable are not culturally working due to their disadvantages, not understanding what is all about. In cases like this they are misdiagnose causing Pacific Islanders withdrawn or never keep to the appointment. Pacific Islanders are still on the long list in the Housing NSW ever growing list. Some Pacific Islanders are desperately looking for a place to live. To some agents Pacific Islanders are not much favoured. From past experiences I do not blame the landlords for not favouring the PI when they are looking for accommodation. The way they treated these places.

The PISSAM Program ask the 3 levels of government to provide funding over five years to provide more Pacific Islander communities awareness, safer and support the justice system by:

continuing night patrol services across Canterbury and Innerwest areas communities; responding to cases that identified as Pacific Islanders.

enabling Pacific Islanders Interpreter Service to meet increased demand;

ensuring Pacific Islanders legal services can respond to high levels of need; and

Continuing the Pacific Islanders human Rights Outreach project.
Established a body for superannuation where the family authorised Apra to pay the funeral director for the invoice incurred when there is a death in the family instead of the fund going to the family. This will alleviate the family members who are left behind especially when children are involved.

Our philosophy – to provide our service to our best of our best to those Pacific Islanders and Multicultural in needs of our service.

To give a community support according to the complex needs of those looking for support in what affected them in their daily lives. PISSAM is the head body of the Pacific Islanders programs and its Council has developed its own model of governance’. This model is based on the philosophy that our Principal Researcher KALO SIKIMETI developed. It is current, up to date and collaborated with her many years in Education, as a teacher, Community leader, Educator, lecturer, Principal, Director of Education, counsellor, musician, social worker, mercy leader. She holds many management positions simply delivering education products and services to Universities, schools, clients, children, and parents since 1975 in the Pacific Islands nation, New Zealand, Australia and Abroad. She is focusing on direct performance on the achievement of bottom line results.

In fact, she sees her role and her team of 7 grassroots University students working alongside grassroots specialist on education, medical, legal, age care, health, community development, social Justice, counselling, human resources, welfare, interpreters/translators, service providers, sports leaders, community leaders, congregation leaders and working partners are as much more challenging and interesting – providing community leadership to Pacific Islanders and the emerging Multicultural Communities across Canterbury building community strength, and improving the quality of people’s lives. With such a broad projects influence on community well being, She believes its focus should be on people as Pacific Islands citizens of Australia and children, parents as families as connected as can be reaching out to those in needs and vice versa. These will bring those in needs to our service in a one to one or group cultural appropriate Pacific Islanders and Multicultural way according to their cultures of their Pacific Island origin.

She encourages children, parents and to all citizens to exercise both their rights and responsibilities as members of their community. This means that processes such as communication, consultation, feedback, debate, transparency and inclusion, are as important at PISSAM program as accountability, action, performance and achievement. Our Working for our community will continue to take our PI and Multicultural people to higher and dryer grounds.

Our members find that our approaches to working in partnership with the community provides a rewarding work experience and chance to make a real difference to all inclusively. The more we participated and involved with the community are not only a huge learning, educational, enjoyable but we share other cultures and understand their perspectives.

Our reputation for innovation and excellence

Leading in many areas from the Pacific Islands and in Australia since the seventies in the support of bringing hundreds of students and others to call Australia Home. Now we are proud citizen of Australia providing the different support to those who have seek and trusted our members in the past, now and to the future. Thank you for believing in us, let us united and do more. Our transparency accountability and governance will strive our utmost best to make differences to our community yesterday, today and everyday will empower us and our future generation to follow. That is why PISSAM program believes in collaborating the past, current and the future specialist to start its program with the three generation so the future generation will be equipped with all the knowledges that will bring high quality of the past, current and the future to take Pacific Islanders to the next level.

Our reputations for innovation, for excellence in education are the very fabric of most of the leaders in the Pacific Islands, New Zealand, Australia and America where the Pacific Islanders call home. We are very proud of that, still it is so good to keep it going and to achieve the next level. For us we are aiming and focusing on being vocal in our support of community diversity and harmony. We are ever so proud of our program under the umbrella of Canterbury Harmony Group Inc. auspice by Riverwood Community Centre, Manager Greta Vallance and Director Pauline Gallagher. We are growing stronger and stronger each new day with our partnership in many programs, education and forum that we are invited to participated. We acknowledge the support and hard work of the Deputy Mayor of Canterbury Councillor of Karl Saleh and Canterbury Council.

To help us meet our goals we are guided by a set of values:

1. communication with children, parents, senior citizen and the whole community focus innovation and strategic thinking teamwork and performance

2. Communication and children, parents, citizen and the whole community focus are about and understanding our community; innovation and strategic are:

3. About responding to community priorities (identifying new options and opportunities), and teamwork and performance are:

4. About delivering results in partnership with our working partners, children, parents, citizens and the whole community.

5. To support the delivery of innovative and citizen focused services we clearly need the commitment of a high quality, qualify, skilled, up to date and motivated staff team.

6. Our team is listed below; our professional resources are listed below and are equivalent to provide services in a wide range of roles.

7. We have four major programs focused on providing quality services, and providing leadership to our Pacific Islanders and diverse community.

8. Community Services - comprising children and family services, community development.

9. Communication and cultural, and recreation services. Partnership with other Service Providers - and finance, legal Aid and general support, public housing support, justice of the peace, filling all types of application forms, Development and sport activities Services - comprising development assessment, monitoring, talented sport people and planning services.

We encourage Pacific Islanders people anyone from non English speaking backgrounds, and people with disabilities to come to us when you needed our service.

We will continuous Community development. We will work with a merit basis and put a high emphasis on continuous learning and development in partnership with Primary and Secondly Schools to refer to us the slow learners or special needs so we can work on the help they need during our homework classes.

We targeted our systems that will support staff through a competency based performances and have an annual personal performance planning and review process. We have excellent systems in place for occupational health and safety directed by our Auspice body Riverwood Community Centre. They have a lot of short courses that train staffs and volunteers and we will be happy to be part of it.

We believe and try to be on a leading organisation with an excellent reputation for both providing good services and being an excellent mentor as shown by some of our members. To sustain these goals we need our staff to be qualify, skilled, experience and specialist on their profession and members of the profession they represented. Staff must have up to date knowledge, innovative, motivated and committed to making PISSAM a great PILOT program to provide the service that Pacific Islander people need.

Our working environment

Our terms and conditions are set under the agencies which ensures all staff receive

good employment conditions, salaries are reviewed regularly, we have a competency

Our mentor program and schemes to encourage flexible work arrangements on 24 hrs availability so our client will have to access when there is an urgent need.

We also have good working relationships with our working partners so we can stood together in providing the viable service that the Pacific Islanders need.

Our working partners and resources are aware with our consultant where they understand the Pacific Islanders and Multicultural needs are extra work to them especially trying to come down to a Pacific Islander level to provide the best service that they need. An active Consultative Committee – made up of the 4 Projects are members and all the representatives and senior executive members and are of specialist professionals and service providers and they are members of the professional they represented. We also hold regular briefing sessions for all Program members weekly, and a range of many social events all helping to facilitate good communication and we are so connected with the community.

We have invested considerably in Education by upgrading University knowledges, ongoing researches with the community, schools and families. We set up support booklet and flyers and other resources that – our citizen requests.

We really want our PISSAM members and Mentor members to make a difference and to support this we recognise and celebrate good performance and have a number of our mentor program members recognize and our children, youths and parents rewarded at the end of the year. There are social clubs and local activities that we are part of and we are very part of the extended community.

The Canterbury Harmony Day,
The Punchbowl Multicultural Inter-faith Harmony Day,
The Ex Students for Catholic School day and activities,
The Refuge Day with schools
The Canterbury Council Multicultural refugee day,
The Clean up Australia Day,
The Haldon Street Festival day,
The Canterbury Junior League’s Final Day,
The Volunteer Award Day,
The Tenant Participation Day auspice by Riverwood Community Centre day.
The Tenant concerence Day
The IWATC Forum Day
The Monthly IWATC meeting
The Annual IWATC AGM
THE TRS MONTHLY MEETING
The TRS Crhismas Celebration
The Earlwood Festivals
The Riverwood Festivals
The St Mary's House Race Day
The St Mary's House Clothes Show
The St Mary's House Bazaar
The Financial Assistance Day for Canterbury Council awarded to all Organisation who makes a difference to the Community.
The Australia Day,
The Pacific Islanders Day, The Tonga Day,
The Holy Spirit Sport Day,
The All Catholic School Sport Day,
The NSW Atheletics Day
The Pacific Games in Canberra
The St Mary’s House ball
The Mary Mackillip Day, The NRL BULLDOGS SEMI FINAL day,
The Catholic University Day,
Australian Human Rights forum.
The Australia Day,
The Child Abuse Prevention Day
The World Women's Day
World Peace Day and many more.

We encourage healthy lifestyle: and have a program of activities to encourage health and well being at work

MWDVCAP ADVOCATING PROGRAM AND LEGAL SERVICES FOR ALL PACIFIC ISLANDERS CONTACT (PISSAM PRINCIPAL SOLICITOR ATE HIFOILEVA MANUFEKAI)

OR REFERRED TO LEGAL AID NSW, LAW ACCESS & PISSAM WORKING PARTNERS. (LEGAL AID WILL PROVIDE HALF AN HOUR SERVICE FREE OF CHARGE REGARDLESS OF YOUR STATUS OR INCOME.

OTHERWISE YOU WILL BE ASSESSED ON YOUR INCOME, IF YOU ARE PENSIONERS CONTACT LEGAL AID OR LAW ACCESS FOR MORE INFORMATION.

Information on the Men's, Women’s & Children's Domestic Violence Court Advocacy Program

The Advocacy was formally established in 2007 with little funding from local clubs. The aim of the program is to assist youths and families experiencing petty, harsh crimes, domestic violence, drugs offenders, driving offences and other criminal activities to obtain legal aid, protection through an Apprehended Domestic Violence Order (ADVO).

Prior to 2007 a number of youths, adult crimes and Domestic Violence Court Assistance with lawyers and other professional help. It has been operating through a number of lawyers, like David Cohen and other court who needed support by parents and the youth themselves in the metropolitan region NSW. In most cases, Schemes operated without specific funding.

In 2007 we established under the Program to provide services

to most of our Pacific Islanders with direct support with lawyers and court support.

As services are in demand we have developed and evolved, a huge change in coordinating with working with the schools, homework support, counselling, grief counselling 24 hrs line and finally it has been adopted and in 2009 we are in full Swing and we became known as the Canterbury Harmony Inc. with our project under the umbrella in 2007. In early 2009 we decided to ask for some fund to expand the Program bringing our working partners to make sure that our resources are there to meet our demand. As a result, all our projects are running with all the skills and experiences from the different profession to take our projects to the next level. With the funding from Canterbury Council and providing the Venues for Senior Citizens at Earlwood and Lakemba. And now we needed funding due to the significantly expanded needs, now and towards the end of 2009 and years to come.

The Aims of the

Men, Women and children who have experienced or are experiencing domestic

Violence, re-offending, drugs, gambling, addictions face numerous and diverse legal, social and economic disadvantages.

In many cases they will have experienced some or all of the following: physical,

verbal and sexual violence, ongoing threats to their physical and/or emotional

safety, lack of access to the legal system, social and geographical isolation, lack

of family and community support, inadequate income support and credit/debt

issues, housing insecurity, health issues, threats to immigration status and

encounters with the family law and child protection systems.

The aim of the PISSAM is to provide a holistic service which:

assists men, women and children who have experienced or who are

Experiencing domestic violence to obtain effective legal

Protection from New South Wales Local Courts through

Applications for Apprehended Domestic Violence Orders

(ADVOs); and

facilitates their access to a network of professional services that

can assist them with their other legal and social/welfare needs;

and,

through partnerships established through the Service, assists in

building the capacity of local services to respond effectively to

domestic violence which has been established for some time.

Guiding principles for the

The MWDVCAP is founded on a human rights approach to the provision of

services to people in domestic violence matters, which acknowledges:

A commitment to the United Nations Convention on the

Elimination of All Forms of Violence against Men,Women, the United

Nations Declaration on the Elimination of Violence against

Men,Women and the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the

Child. The full text of these instruments can be found at

The gendered nature of domestic violence and its

disproportionate impact on women and men;

The impact of exposure to domestic violence on children and the

relevance of domestic violence as a child protection issue;

The disproportionate impact of domestic violence on men, women who

are already disadvantaged, in particular Indigenous Pacific Islanders’ people similar to Aboriginal women and men

men, women from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds,

men, women with disabilities, men, women in same-sex relationships and

older women and men;

The need to adopt a holistic, multi-pronged approach to the

provision of services to victims of domestic violence; and

The need to continually improve responses to victims of domestic

violence at an individual and systemic level.

What is?

PISSAM Men and Women’s Domestic Violence Court Advocacy Service is asking for the Attorney General department for some funding from the Legal Aid

NSW to provide information, assistance and court advocacy services to men, women

and children experiencing domestic violence.

Funding is provided to incorporated, not for profit non-government Service

Provider organisations through a triennial Service Agreement with Legal Aid

NSW.

PISSAM is asking Funding to provided Services and to employ a full time grassroot Pacific Islander Principal Solicitor, full time CEO and Researcher, a full time Co-ordinator, 1. Assistant Co-ordinator& full time administrative assistance, 1 full time community worker, 1 part time social worker, 2 part time phone counsellors, 4 part time tutors and 2 part time Recreation and Sports officers and 2 part time youth officers. Administrative costs relating to the operation of the Pacific Islanders program.will be collaborated with other programs.

Pacific Islanders that operate in areas with a high percentage of Pacific Islanders or CALD people are funded to employ Specialist, qualified professional Pacific Islanders in Education, health, legal, counselling, individuals and Pacific Islanders CALD Workers to

deliver the following services, which are explained in more detail

below:

Information;

Assistance and referral; and

Court Advocacy.

It is important that PISSAM staff and Professionals, Service Provider organisations have a shared understanding of what these services involve.

Information

This includes legal information. Legal information involves describing legal

procedures or processes and includes providing basic information about:

Domestic violence legislation or other area of law;

Making an application for an ADVO;

Making a complaint to Police regarding a criminal offence;

Court proceedings including ADVO applications and hearings;

How to make an ADVO effective including reporting of

breaches”;

The role of the Police; and

The role of legal representatives including individual solicitors,

representatives from Legal Aid NSW, police prosecutors and

community legal centres.

Legal information does not include telling women the most appropriate course if

legal action to take, interpreting the law or making an assessment of the

consequences of any legal course of action. This is called legal advice and

MWDVCAS staff do not provide legal advice. If a man/woman needs legal advice she/he

will be referred to a lawyer (Leva Manufekai is specialise and happy to support and will go through with anyone who needed legal advise or to represent them in court.)

We also give Assistance & Monitor Referrals to our working partners if requested

PISSAMs do engage in ongoing casework or case management of clients, we also referred to our working partners.

A PISSAMs engagement with a client is short-term, long term and focused on ensuring legal

protection and assessing the clients other legal and social welfare needs and

making appropriate referrals depeding on the client's circumstances.

It is important that PISSAM workers understand the boundaries of their role and

act within those boundaries.

PISSAM provide a range of assistance within their roles depending on their

resources. It may include assisting a client to make an ADVO application, making

a complaint to police about a breach of an ADVO or other criminal offence or

Writing a letter of support for a housing provider and any other support that is requested.

1 Definitions taken from the Queensland Government Department of Families, Practice Standards for

Working with Men, Women & Children Affected by Domestic and Family Violence (2002).

Referrals are made when the PISSAM considers that a client can be more

appropriately serviced by another organisation and refers the person to the other

organisations for assistance. Examples include:

Legal services (e.g. family law, care and protection, victims

compensation matters, credit and debt);

Housing services (e.g. refuges, Department of Housing, Staying

Home Leaving Violence services);

Counselling and emotional and practical support services (such

as professional counsellors, family support services);

Financial assistance services (e.g. Centrelink, financial

counsellors).

Wherever possible ‘warm referrals’ (referrals in which the referrer introduces the

client to the referee) should be made.

Court Advocacy

An advocate builds relationships with other key partners (such as Police, Local

Courts, legal representatives) in order to gain specialist knowledge about the

systems and services available to assist women and children experiencing

domestic violence. Advocacy involves using this knowledge in a respectful and

collaborative way to assist women to negotiate these systems effectively.

This may also involve advocating on her behalf (with her consent) with other key

partners.

Examples of court advocacy include working with the DVLO or police prosecutor

to ensure ADVO conditions are appropriate to the client’s needs, ensuring

women receive the support and assistance they need to address breaches and

when they disclose offences against them and prevent secondary victimisation of men,

women and children by the system.

Advocacy does not mean providing legal representation or advice.

Principles relating to MWDVCAS service delivery

The principles that underpin the services provided by PISSAMs include, but are

not limited to, the following:

1. The safety of women, men and other persons with whom she/he is in a

domestic relationship (including their children) and of workers

has priority;

2.Men, Women, children are treated with dignity, respect and sensitivity;

3.Men, Women, children are supported and assisted to receive services on an

equitable basis;

4. Men, Women, children are able to identify and express their needs and make

decisions in a supportive and non-judgemental environment.

This includes the right to refuse a service and not have this

decision prejudice their future access to services;

5.Men, Women, children have the right to have their confidentiality respected

and observed and are informed of situations where that

confidentiality may be limited;

6. Services will work co-operatively, collaboratively and in a coordinated

way to ensure the best possible services are

delivered to women, and children experiencing domestic

violence;

7. Men, Women, and children experiencing domestic violence are provided with

appropriate advocacy;

8. A culture of intolerance about domestic violence is developed in

communities and individuals;

9. Men, Women, and children receive quality services from appropriately skilled

workers;

10. Women, men and children are able to access a service environment that enables

effective service provision.

Who are the Priority Client Groups of the PISSAM?

Pacific Islanders and depending upon demand and resources, PISSAMs are required to provide

assistance to men, women, and children who have experienced or are experiencing

domestic violence in the following matters in order of priority:

Men, Women, who are considering ADVO proceedings and require

information, advice and referral;

Men, Women, in ADVO applications (police and privately initiated)

which are being heard on a mention basis on AVO list days

(whether as an applicant or defendant);

Men, Women, in ADVO applications (police and privately initiated)

which are being heard on a mention basis on other court days

(whether as an applicant or defendant);

Men,Women, Children in ADVO applications (police and privately initiated)

which are set down for a defended hearing (whether as an

applicant or defendant);

Men, Women, children in APVO proceedings who have been subjected to

stalking and intimidation, where there is no previous intimate

relationship, subject to the discretion of the MWDVCAS Coordinator,

for example, by someone whose apparent intention is

for the purpose of forming a relationship; or by a new partner of

the client’s ex-partner;

Men,Women, children in criminal charge matters involving domestic violence

which are being heard on a mention basis with or without an

associated ADVO application (whether as a victim witness in the

matter or as a defendant);

Men, Women, and children in criminal charge matters involving domestic violence

which are set down for a defended hearing with or without an

associated ADVO application (whether as a victim in the matter

or defendant);

Men, Women, and children in ADVO applications (police and privately initiated)

which are the subject of an appeal to the District Court (whether

as an applicant or defendant);

Intervention programs under the Criminal Procedure Act 1986,

such as Circle Sentencing, subject to the choice of the victim in

the proceedings to have a support person present, in accordance

with the Criminal Procedure Regulation 2005 and the procedures

of the circle sentencing group.

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________

COURT ADVOCACY WORKER FOR WDVCAP ADVOCATING PROGRAM AND LEGAL SERVICES FOR ALL PACIFIC ISLANDERS CONTACT (PISSAM PRINCIPAL SOLICITOR ATE HIFOILEVA MANUFEKAI)

OR REFERRED TO LEGAL AID NSW, LAW ACCESS & PISSAM WORKING PARTNERS. (LEGAL AID WILL PROVIDE HALF AN HOUR SERVICE FREE OF CHARGE REGARDLESS OF YOUR STATUS OR INCOME.

OTHERWISE YOU WILL BE ASSESSED ON YOUR INCOME, IF YOU ARE A PENSIONER CONTACT LEGAL AID OR LAW ACCESS FOR MORE INFORMATION.

Pacific Islanders Strengthening, advocating, supporting and Mentoring women’s and children Domestic Violence Court Advocacy Service

PISSAM is a community organisation (auspice by Riverwood Community Centre under the umbrella of Canterbury Harmony group inc.) providing services to women, and children experiencing domestic violence, addiction, reoffenders to obtain legal protection through Apprehended Domestic Violence Orders (ADVOs) and access support services to assist with their other needs.

We are confident, motivated and with dynamic skills to deliver effective and timely services to women, and children affected by domestic violence and other court support.

The work of the PISSAM Court Advocacy Worker includes, but is not limited to,

the following duties:

Assist the PISSAM Co-ordinator/Assistant Co-ordinator with all enquiries from men, women and papers re appearances in court, to provide

information, assistance and referrals and court advocacy to PISSAM clients;

Assist the PISSAM Co-ordinator/Assistant Co-ordinator to work in

partnership with NSW Police, Local Courts, legal representatives and referral

agencies;

Ensure the safety of PISSASM clients at court by accompanying them into

and out of court and obtaining copies of orders and other notices from the

court staff on behalf of PISSAM clients, as required;

Adhere to PISSAM Principles, Policies and Standards in undertaking their

work in particular those relating to client confidentiality and privacy, referrals

to and from the PISSAM, client and worker safety, staff professionalism,

child protection notifications and follow-up assistance;

Ability to deliver services in accordance with the PISSAM Service

Agreement, PISSAM Principles, Policies and Standards and operational

documents

Collect data for the PISSAM database and any other information, as

directed by the PISSAM Co-ordinator/Assistant Co-ordinator;

Attend court on AVO list days and other days as required, in particular,

mentions on other court days, hearings, criminal charge matters to provide

information, assistance and support for PISSAM clients, as directed by the

Coordinator;

Develop working relationships and referral networks with local services that

respond to the particular needs of PI men, women and others whom access the service;

Essential skills and knowledge

Understanding of domestic violence and its complexities

Knowledge and understanding of and ability to implement Legal Aid NSW

PISSAM principles, policies and procedures

Knowledge of the criminal justice response to domestic violence, legislation in

relation to ADVOs and criminal charges and processes for their

implementation; basic understanding of the family law system, its impact on

the administration of ADVO legislation and its implications for PISSAM

clients; some knowledge of Victims Compensation law

Knowledge of Legal Aid NSW policies in respect of grants of legal aid for

representation for persons in need of protection and defendants in domestic

violence matters

Ability to deliver services in accordance with the PISSAM polices and

Recognition of the special needs of women, and children who are disadvantaged,procedures

particularly Pacific Islanders men and women

Good communication, negotiation and networking skills Ability to work effectively with interpreters. PISSAM members can speak a Pacific Islanders language as well.

And will be more ongoing training

Co-ordinator of the PISSAW and 1 assistant co-ordinator and a Secretary

A well developed understanding and commitment to feminist principles.

Understanding of Domestic Violence and its complexities

Understanding of ADVOs and Court procedures.

Proven Ability to work with non-government & government agencies,

Demonstrated understanding and commitment to access and equity principles.

Proven ability in advocacy and case management of clients

Demonstrated ability to work effectively in a multi-disciplinary environment

Well developed understanding of effective communication skills.

Well developed computer skills.

Core training in the Women’s Domestic Violence Court Advocacy Service

Experience working in the legal system and Courts.

Experience in working with Police Local Area Commands

Counselling staffs hold Tertiary qualifications in related areas of all community services.

ADVOCACY WORKER POSITION – CO-ORDINATOR/ DOMESTIC VIOLENCE COURT ADVOCACY SERVICE (Anne Latu) one assistant at

Parramatta, Burwood, Bankstown, Downing centre, Liverpool/Fairfield Youth’s, Women’s and Men’s Domestic Violence Court Advocacy Service.The Advocacy worker position with the

above services Domestic Violence Court Advocacy Service was established in a working partnership with David Cohen Solicitors and others in 1995 and has been operating since and now we have elevated to start a full time program. We ask the Attorney General to fund this special program.

This program is highly needed especially with Pacific Islanders women has been in domestic violence and committed crimes and continues to be a program of Special needs. The service is being auspice and managed by PISSAM PROGRAM. It currently provides services at ANY COURT. As of 1st August our services will expand to any court where we are requested.

We will provide the following services –

Information on Men,Women’s, Children’s and Men’s Domestic Violence Court Advocacy Program and Services from required sources

The funding from the NSW Government Attorney General Department with our aim of the PISSAM PROGRAM is to assist men, women,and children

Experiencing domestic violence to obtain legal protection through an Apprehended Domestic Violence Order (ADVO).Prior to our program a number of general Domestic Violence Court Assistance Schemes, as they were then known (MWDVCASs), had been operating through number of private solicitors, some paid for it themselves and some were approved Legal Aid throughout the Sydney Metropolitan region and in Parts of regional NSW. In most cases, Schemes operated without specific

Funding but in some cases received grants from other sources.

In July 2009 PISSAM PROGRAM were established under the Program to provide services

To all Local Courts where there are Pacific Islanders, multicultural and others who have seek support with us and will be represented. In 2009 we ask the WDVCAP to fund our service to provide services in the Local Courts. Where Pacific Islanders will be represented. As services offered through the WDVCASs have developed and evolved, change in the name for the Schemes has been adopted and in 2008 they became known as Men,Women’s Domestic Violence Court Advocacy Services. On 8March 2007, the NSW Government announced an increase in funding of $2.6million in 2009/2010 to expand the Program bringing the total Program funding to around $6 million. As a result, the WDVCAP will be significantly expanded in 2009/10.

The Aims of the MWDVCAP

Men, Women and children who have experienced or are experiencing domestic violence face numerous and diverse legal, social and economic disadvantages. In many cases they will have experienced some or all of the following: physical, verbal and sexual violence, ongoing threats to their physical and/or emotional safety, lack of access to the legal system, social and geographical isolation, lack of family and community support, inadequate income support and credit/debt issues, housing insecurity, health issues, threats to immigration status and encounters with the family law and child protection systems.

Anne Sikimeti Latu Co-ordinator MWDVCAP PROGRAM

___________________________________________________________________________________________

WDVCAP ADVOCATING PROGRAM.

The aim of the WDVCAP is to provide a holistic service which:

• assists women and children who have experienced or who are experiencing domestic violence to obtain effective legal protection from New South Wales Local Courts through applications for Apprehended Domestic Violence Orders (ADVOs); and

• facilitates their access to a network of professional services that can assist them with their other legal and social/welfare needs; and,

• through partnerships established through the Service, assists in building the capacity of local services to respond effectively to domestic violence. Guiding principles for the WDVCAP The WDVCAP is founded on a human rights approach to the provision of services to people in domestic violence matters, which acknowledges:

• A commitment to the United Nations Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Violence Against Women, the United Nations Declaration on the Elimination of Violence against Women and the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child. The full text of these instruments can be found at

• The gendered nature of domestic violence and its disproportionate impact on women;

• The impact of exposure to domestic violence on children and the relevance of domestic violence as a child protection issue;

• The disproportionate impact of domestic violence on women who are already disadvantaged, in particular Aboriginal women, women from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, women with disabilities, women in same-sex relationships and older women;

• The need to adopt a holistic, multi-pronged approach to the provision of services to victims of domestic violence; and

• The need to continually improve responses to victims of domestic violence at an individual and systemic level. What is WDVCAS? Women’s Domestic Violence Court Advocacy Services are funded by Legal Aid NSW to provide information, assistance and court advocacy services to women and children experiencing domestic violence.

Funding is provided to incorporated, not for profit non-government Service Provider organisations through a triennial Service Agreement with Legal Aid NSW.

Funding is provided to the Service Provider organisation to employ a WDVCAS Co-ordinator, Assistant Co-ordinators(s), for administrative assistance and for administrative costs relating to the operation of the WDVCAS. WDVCASs that operate in areas with a high percentage of Aboriginal or CALD people are funded to employ Specialist Aboriginal and CALD Workers. WDVCASs deliver the following services, which are explained in more detail below:

• Information;

• Assistance and referral; and

• Court Advocacy.

It is important that WDVCAS staff and Service Provider organisations have shared understanding of what these services involve. 1Information

This includes legal information. Legal information involves describing legal procedures or processes and includes providing basic information about:

• Domestic violence legislation or other area of law;

• Making an application for an ADVO;

• Making a complaint to Police regarding a criminal offence;

• Court proceedings including ADVO applications and hearings;

• How to make an ADVO effective including reporting of “breaches”;

• The role of the Police; and

• The role of legal representatives including individual solicitors, representatives from Legal Aid NSW, police prosecutors and

Community legal centres. Legal information does not include telling women the most appropriate course if legal action to take, interpreting the law or making an assessment of the consequences of any legal course of action. This is called legal advice and

WDVCAS staff does not provide legal advice. If a woman needs legal advice she should be referred to a legal service.

Assistance and Referrals

WDVCASs do not engage in ongoing casework or case management of clients. A WDVCASs engagement with a client is short-term, focused on ensuring legal protection and assessing the clients other legal and social welfare needs and making appropriate referrals. It is important that WDVCAS workers understand the boundaries of their role and act within those boundaries. WDVCAS provide a range of assistance within their role depending on their resources. It may include assisting a client to make an ADVO application, making a complaint to police about a breach of an ADVO or other criminal offence or writing a letter of support for a housing provider.1 Definitions taken from the Queensland Government Department of Families, Practice Standards for working with Women Affected by Domestic and Family Violence (2002).

Referrals are made when the WDVCAS considers that a client can be more appropriately serviced by another organisation and refers the person to the other organisations for assistance. Examples include:

• Legal services (e.g. family law, care and protection, victims compensation matters, credit and debt);

• Housing services (e.g. refuges, Department of Housing, Staying Home Leaving Violence services);

• Counselling and emotional and practical support services (such as professional counsellors, family support services);

• Financial assistance services (e.g. Centrelink, financial counsellors). Wherever possible ‘warm referrals’ (referrals in which the referrer introduces the client to the referee) should be made.

Court Advocacy

An advocate builds relationships with other key partners (such as Police, Local Courts, legal representatives) in order to gain specialist knowledge about the systems and services available to assist women and children experiencing domestic violence. Advocacy involves using this knowledge in a respectful and collaborative way to assist women to negotiate these systems effectively. This may also involve advocating on her behalf (with her consent) with other key partners.

Examples of court advocacy include working with the DVLO or police prosecutor to ensure ADVO conditions are appropriate to the client’s needs, ensuring women receive the support and assistance they need to address breaches and when they disclose offences against them and prevent secondary victimisation of women by the system.

Advocacy does not mean providing legal representation or advice.

Principles relating to WDVCAS service delivery The principles that underpin the services provided by WDVCASs include, but are not limited to, the following:

1. The safety of women and other persons with whom she is in a domestic relationship (including their children) and of workers has priority;

2. Women are treated with dignity, respect and sensitivity;

3. Women are supported and assisted to receive services on an equitable basis;

4. Women are able to identify and express their needs and make decisions in a supportive and non-judgemental environment.

This includes the right to refuse a service and not have this decision prejudice their future access to services;

5. Women have the right to have their confidentiality respected and observed and are informed of situations where that confidentiality may be limited;

6. Services will work co-operatively, collaboratively and in a coordinated way to ensure the best possible services are delivered to women and children experiencing domestic violence;

7. Women experiencing domestic violence are provided with appropriate advocacy;

8. A culture of intolerance about domestic violence is developed in communities and individuals;

9. Women receive quality services from appropriately skilled workers;

10. Women are able to access a service environment that enables effective service provision. Who are the Priority Client Groups of the WDVCAS? Depending upon demand and resources, WDVCASs are required to provide assistance to women and children who have experienced or are experiencing domestic violence in the following matters in order of priority:

• Women who are considering ADVO proceedings and require information, advice and referral;

• Women in ADVO applications (police and privately initiated) which are being heard on a mention basis on AVO list days (whether as an applicant or defendant);

• Women in ADVO applications (police and privately initiated) which are being heard on a mention basis on other court days (whether as an applicant or defendant);

• Women in ADVO applications (police and privately initiated) which are set down for a defended hearing (whether as an applicant or defendant);

• Women in APVO proceedings who have been subjected to stalking and intimidation, where there is no previous intimate relationship, subject to the discretion of the WDVCAS Coordinator, for example, by someone whose apparent intention is for the purpose of forming a relationship; or by a new partner of the client’s ex-partner;

• Women in criminal charge matters involving domestic violence which are being heard on a mention basis with or without an associated ADVO application (whether as a victim witness in the matter or as a defendant);

• Women in criminal charge matters involving domestic violence which are set down for a defended hearing with or without an associated ADVO application (whether as a victim in the matter or defendant);

• Women in ADVO applications (police and privately initiated) which are the subject of an appeal to the District Court (whether as an applicant or defendant);

• Intervention programs under the Criminal Procedure Act 1986, such as Circle Sentencing, subject to the choice of the victim in the proceedings to have a support person present, in accordance with the Criminal Procedure Regulation 2005 and the procedures of the circle sentencing group. Domestic Violence Court Advocacy Service (WDVCAS) is a community organisation (auspice by Riverwood Community Centre. Centre) providing services to women and children experiencing domestic violence to obtain legal protection through Apprehended Domestic Violence Orders (ADVOs) and access support services to assist with their other needs. We are looking for a woman to apply her confident, motivated and dynamic skills and personality to deliver effective and timely services to women and children affected by domestic violence.

WDVCAS ADVOCACY WORKER POSITION DESCRIPTION

Duties The work of the WDVCAS Court Advocacy Worker includes, but is not limited to, the following duties:

• Assist the WDVCAS Co-ordinator/Assistant Co-ordinator at court to provide information, assistance and referrals and court advocacy to WDVCAS clients;

• Assist the WDVCAS Co-ordinator/Assistant Co-ordinator to work in partnership with NSW Police, Local Courts, legal representatives and referral agencies;

• Ensure the safety of WDVCAS clients at court by accompanying them into and out of court and obtaining copies of orders and other notices from the court staff on behalf of WDVCAS clients, as required;

• Adhere to WDVCAP Principles, Policies and Standards in undertaking their work in particular those relating to client confidentiality and privacy, referrals to and from the WDVCAS, client and worker safety, staff professionalism, child protection notifications and follow-up assistance;

• Ability to deliver services in accordance with the WDVCAS Service Agreement, WDVCAP Principles, Policies and Standards and operational documents

• Collect data for the WDVCAP database and any other information, as directed by the WDVCAS Co-ordinator/Assistant Co-ordinator;

• Attend court on AVO list days and other days as required, in particular, mentions on other court days, hearings, criminal charge matters to provide information, assistance and support for WDVCAS clients, as directed by the

Coordinator;

• Develop working relationships and referral networks with local services that respond to the particular needs of women whom access the service;

Essential skills and knowledge

• Understanding of domestic violence and its complexities

• Knowledge and understanding of and ability to implement Legal Aid NSW WDVCAP principles, policies and procedures

• Knowledge of the criminal justice response to domestic violence, legislation in relation to ADVOs and criminal charges and processes for their implementation; basic understanding of the family law system, its impact on the administration of ADVO legislation and its implications for WDVCAS clients; some knowledge of Victims Compensation law

• Knowledge of Legal Aid NSW policies in respect of grants of legal aid for representation for persons in need of protection and defendants in domestic violence matters

• Ability to deliver services in accordance with the WDVCAP polices and

procedures

• Recognition of the special needs of women who are disadvantaged, particularly Aboriginal women, women with disabilities and women of culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds

• Good communication, negotiation and networking skills

• Ability to work effectively with interpreters.

Accountability

To the Co-ordinator of the WDVCAS.

• A well developed understanding and commitment to feminist principles.

• Understanding of Domestic Violence and its complexities

• Understanding of ADVOs and Court procedures.

• Proven Ability to work with non-government & government agencies,

• Demonstrated understanding and commitment to access and equity principles.

• Proven ability in advocacy and case management of clients

• Demonstrated ability to work effectively in a multi-disciplinary environment

• Well developed understanding of effective communication skills.

• Well developed computer skills.

• Core training in the Women’s Domestic Violence Court Advocacy Service

• Experience working in the legal system and Courts.

• Experience in working with Police Local Area Commands

• Tertiary qualifications in related areas of community development and counselling.

• Local knowledge of the Pacific Islanders Community in South West Sydney, Inner West Sydney, Eastern Sydney and its community service’s network

What is a good Pacific Islanders legal referral system?

Pacific Islanders Customers with legal problems will approach a variety of agencies, both legal and non legal, to seek assistance. Agencies may include community legal centres, courts, Legal Aid, libraries, private solicitors and barristers, the Law Society of NSW, dispute resolution agencies, government departments, community agencies, health professionals and private organisations. The legal referral system potentially includes any of these agencies that need to refer their client to another agency for additional assistance.

What is PACIFIC ISLANDERS effective legal referral?

In the context of community work referral is the handing over or passing on of a client to another organisations. Effective legal referral practice has the following components:

• Assists the customer to reach a suitable service provider with the least number of referrals

• Assists the customer to take appropriate action by providing tools

• Carries out the referral in a way that is appropriate to customer needs.

• Assist the customer to understand exactly what they are entering and how important that a good outcome to say exactly what happened.

Effective legal referral depends upon having an effective legal referral system, effective agencies within the system, staff that has the necessary skills, knowledge and attitudes to carry out the referral (referral competencies) and appropriate tools to assist staff.

What makes an effective legal referral system?

An effective legal referral system…

Meets the needs of clients

• helps people to recognise when they have a legal problem

• assists the customer to take appropriate action

• empowers and informs the customer

• ensures that the customer is referred to a suitable service provider with the least number of referrals

• has strategies for when agencies have reached capacity

• is flexible and can respond to changing circumstances

• advocates for the customer when necessary and appropriate

• is accessible to all clients e.g. clients with limited English, with disabilities, who don't use the phone

• treats customers in a culturally appropriate way

• has multiple entry points which provide consistent information e.g. internet, agencies, libraries, publications, face to face, phone, email.

Has skilled staff and is adequately resourced

• has staff who have appropriate knowledge, skills and attitudes

• provides appropriate training for staff

• provides staff time to participate in networks

• does not put unrealistic demands on staff

• acknowledges the different levels of referral both within and between agencies

• has appropriate tools to support services and staff e.g. training packages, procedures, competencies, databases, up to date and comprehensive information.

Works together

• has a shared aim or mission

• has clearly defined roles and responsibilities for different types of agencies in the system e.g. courts, community legal centres

• shares a common language

• ensures that each agency knows what others do

• works across all relevant sectors

• builds relationships between service providers through strategies such as referral protocols

• shares expertise among service providers i.e. able to access an expert with specific legal expertise

• Has shared tools e.g. databases.

Knows about current service delivery

• feeds information about gaps in service provision into policy

• gathers and shares information and research into client needs and pathways to assist with planning and evaluation

• Monitors how well it is doing and acknowledges and learns from incorrect referrals.

Barriers to an effective referral system

• lacks availability of services

• lacks understanding of the legal system

• lacks coordination or shared information

• lacks adequate maintenance of the system

• lacks ability to deal with the various needs of clients enabling access to services e.g. clients with limited English, clients with low level literacy

• agencies which are inward looking

• Agencies which are under resourced.

What makes an effective legal referral agency?

For the legal referral system to be effective as a whole, each agency needs to be internally effective. Agencies have responsibility for the operation of their service in order that legal referral staffs are able to function effectively and competently. An effective agency within the legal referral system...

• provides access to training and professional development for all staff

• disseminates information to ensure staff are informed

• provides access to appropriate tools and resources

• provides supervision and support for staff

• maintains and implements policies and procedures for the operation of the service

• clearly defines roles within the agency including the responsibilities and accountabilities of each

role

• Implements evaluation and feedback mechanisms to ensure continual improvement of service.

Anne Latu Court Coordinator PISSAM PROGRAM.

WDVCAP ADVOCATING PROGRAM AND LEGAL SERVICES FOR ALL PACIFIC ISLANDERS CONTACT (PISSAM PRINCIPAL SOLICITOR ATE HIFOILEVA MANUFEKAI)

OR REFERRED TO LEGAL AID NSW, LAW ACCESS & PISSAM WORKING PARTNERS. (LEGAL AID WILL PROVIDE HALF AN HOUR SERVICE FREE OF CHARGE REGARDLESS OF YOUR STATUS OR INCOME.

OTHERWISE YOU WILL BE ASSESSED ON YOUR INCOME, IF YOU ARE PENSIONERS CONTACT LEGAL AID OR LAW ACCESS FOR MORE INFORMATION.

___________________________________________________________________________________________

Freed man 'angry' at DNA mix-up

Source: By Simon Lauder abc 8/12/2009

Audio: Calls for legal safeguards as DNA evidence compromised (PM)

A young Victorian man is free tonight after serving 16 months for a crime he always maintained he did not commit.

He was released after severe doubts were cast about the reliability of the DNA evidence that convicted him.

The man may now seek compensation for his prison ordeal, but the case also raises much wider questions about the handling of DNA evidence in Victoria.

In July last year, 22-year-old Farah Jama was sentenced to six years in jail for the rape of a 48-year-old woman in a Melbourne nightclub.

No-one, including the complainant, witnessed the rape and the conviction relied solely on DNA evidence.

Today the court of appeal overturned the conviction.

Mr Jama says it was a long 16 months and he got through it by keeping to himself.

"I feel really angry and depressed," he said.

"Just not to tell what they accused me for, that's the way I survived there."

Mr Jama's DNA was on police record because a sample was taken for an unrelated investigation where no charges were ever laid.

It has now emerged the same forensic officer who took the sample from Mr Jama took one from the alleged rape victim within 24 hours.

The Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine told the court the swab may have been contaminated during the examination of the alleged rape victim.

The court of appeal also heard there is now doubt over whether the woman in the case was actually raped.

Chief Justice Marilyn Warren ordered a verdict of acquittal be entered.

Mr Jama has always maintained he was innocent.

His lawyer Kimani Boden says there were other factors which should have raised doubts.

"Mr Farah was 19 at the time of the incident. The nightclub was a nightclub which only admitted people above the age of 28," he said.

"Farah Jama had just finished year 12 when he was arrested for the rape and he is now thinking about compensation."

Mr Jama was also represented at his appeal by lawyer Hina Pasha.

Ms Pasha says the case should be a lesson to prosecutors.

"Now obviously it's in the Crown's favour for future cases to be able to rely on that sort of evidence, and perhaps sometimes that sort of evidence alone," she said.

"But I think that this is a clear case of you can't, and if there's a potential for human error then that should be taken into account by the courts and by the prosecution."

DNA cases reviewed

The mix-up which led to Mr Jama being jailed is just the latest bungle involving DNA evidence in Victoria.

Only last month the case against an armed robbery suspect was suspended because of fresh doubts over DNA evidence.

And last year Victoria Police dropped double murder charges after admitting the DNA evidence they had used was contaminated.

Ms Pasha says it is time to consider greater legal protection.

"We are seeing a problem in Victoria definitely but I think in terms of DNA testing worldwide, I think this is a warning sign," she said.

"And in terms of how it reaches into the legal system, I think that there should be some sort of boundaries."

Victoria's director of Public Prosecutions recently announced a review of all cases in the past five years, to ensure the DNA evidence was still considered reliable.

The president of Liberty Victoria, Michael Pearce SC, says today's development is further evidence of an over-reliance on methods which were once believed infallible.

"I think there is a strong case building for some kind of a warning to juries about not placing too much reliance on DNA evidence," he said.

"So you've got, I guess, two sets of implications. One is for what's happened in the past and whether people who shouldn't have been convicted have been convicted.

"Then we need to get things right in the future and we need to guard against these sorts of errors being made in the future by overreliance on DNA evidence."

Mr Jama says he is still hoping to go to university and he never lost faith in the legal system that sent him to jail for nearly a year and a half.

"I know that the truth always will come out one day and everybody will see that I'm innocent," he said.

The Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine, which provides testing for Victoria Police, says it acknowledges the wrongful conviction and it has launched an inquiry into the case.

The owner of this website and publication is PISSAM NETWORK, which is under the umbrella of Canterbury Harmony group Inc. auspice by Riverwood Community Centre and its working partner. Content may not be reproduced in any format or changed, sold or used to promote or endorse any product or service, inappropriate or misleading context.. Acknowledgment to the PISSAM NETWORK & Its auspice body Riverwood Community Centre

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Freed man 'angry' at DNA mix-up

DNA cases reviewed