Federal Self-Representation Service

About our Federal Self-Representation Service 

Our Federal Self-Representation Service assists people in Victoria, New South Wales, the ACT and Tasmania, in matters before the Federal Court of Australia and the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia (excluding family law and migration matters). The service supports people in areas such as bankruptcy, employment and human rights.

Federal cases often involve complex legislation and serious consequences, including financial, employment and rights-based impacts. Many people go through these processes without legal support.

Justice Connect provides clear, practical legal help so people can understand what is happening within the legal process, and what to do next.

Why the service exists

Many people involved in federal court matters are not eligible for legal aid and cannot afford private representation. 

At the same time, federal legal processes can be complex and difficult to navigate. People often face structural and practical barriers when trying to engage with the system. 

Without support, people may: 

• struggle to understand how federal court processes work 
• be unsure of their legal obligations or options 
• find it difficult to identify the key issues in their case or respond to the other party 

This can affect both their ability to participate effectively and how smoothly matters progress through the courts. 

The service exists to provide early, targeted support, helping people navigate federal court processes with greater clarity and confidence. 

How the service works

We help people to: 

• understand court processes and what is expected of them 
• prepare for hearings, mediations, and key steps in their matter 
• make sense of their options and next steps 
• complete specific legal tasks at important stages, helping avoid delays and misunderstandings 

Support is provided through one-hour appointments with pro bono lawyers and barristers, focused on helping people prepare for critical moments in the court process rather than ongoing representation. This may include legal advice, assistance preparing documents, and guidance on their options and next steps. 

We work closely with the courts to provide our support in flexible ways, including both in person at the court and remotely by phone. In some cases, people may receive more than one appointment depending on their needs. r system and improve how building disputes are resolved.