VPRS 18020 Subject Correspondence Files: Liaison and Advocacy Officer

The Liaison and Advocacy Officer acted as the departmental 'watchdog' within Winlaton / Nunawading Youth Residential Centre (VA 5093). This officer had the responsibility of appraising internal procedures and programs. Additionally, they acted as an advocate for clients, ensuring that their legal and civil rights were upheld. To do this they liaised with external officials from the Children's' Court and other bodies, as well as departmental and institutional staff.The Liaison and Advocacy Unit, Practice Quality Branch of the Department of Community Services (VA 2633) was established to advocate the rights of clients primarily residing in institutions or at risk of institutionalisation and maintain pressure on the Department to ensure quality client service. The Department of Community Services' Liaison and Advocacy Unit was formally disbanded in July 1990.