PR-21-2025
29 October 2025, MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA – The Philippine Consulate General in Melbourne supported the visit of a Supreme Court of the Philippines delegation—led by Associate Justices Rodil V. Zalameda, Antonio T. Kho, Jr., Ricardo R. Rosario, and Joseph Y. Lopez—to the National Access to Justice and Pro Bono Conference held in Melbourne from 29–31 October 2025.
During the visit, the Supreme Court presented the Unified Legal Aid Service (ULAS) framework—an initiative to broaden access to justice in the Philippines by requiring Filipino lawyers to render free legal-assistance hours within a defined compliance period, prioritizing individuals unable to afford adequate legal services. ULAS also presents opportunities to strengthen referral pathways relevant to Overseas Filipinos who may require guidance on Philippine legal matters. The Consulate welcomed the delegation’s engagement and affirmed its support for efforts that promote the rule of law and benefit the public.
The program also included a collegial Meet-and-Greet at the Consulate with the Filipino-Australian Lawyers Association of Victoria (FALAW), a non-profit association of Filipino-Australian legal professionals and students. The exchange highlighted opportunities for professional linkages, mentoring, public legal information, and diaspora-aligned pro bono initiatives consistent with local regulations. Both sides noted the value of continued dialogue between Philippine and Australian legal practitioners.
The Consulate General reiterates its commitment to fostering partnerships that advance access to justice and support the Filipino community in Victoria and across Australia.
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