annual report 08-09 - Public Interest Advocacy Centre

ABOUT
PIAC
The Public Interest Advocacy Centre (PIAC)
is an independent, non-profit legal and
policy centre. PIAC seeks to promote a just
and democratic society and to empower
individuals and groups, particularly those
who are disadvantaged and marginalised.
Using legal, policy, communication and
training initiatives, PIAC makes strategic
interventions in public interest matters.
PIAC was established in July 1982 as an
initiative of the Law Foundation of New
South Wales with the support of the
NSW Legal Aid Commission. Since that
time it has grown from a staff of four to
a paid staff at the end of the 2008-09
financial year of 29, as well as professional
placements, secondees and interns who
make a valuable contribution.
Whenever possible, PIAC works
co-operatively with other groups and
individuals to achieve public interest
outcomes. Those PIAC works with include
other public interest groups, community
and consumer organisations, community
legal centres, private law firms, professional
associations, academics, experts, industry
and unions. PIAC provides its services free
or at minimal cost.
WHAT PIAC DOES
PIAC aims to:
• expose and redress unjust or unsafe
practices, deficient laws or policies;
• promote accountable, transparent and
responsive government;
• encourage, influence and inform public
debate on issues affecting legal and
democratic rights;
• promote the development of law that
reflects the public interest;
• develop and assist community
organisations with a public interest
focus to pursue the interests of the
communities they represent;
• develop models to respond to systemic
unmet need; and maintain an effective
and sustainable organisation.
PIAC’S PURPOSE
PIAC works for a fair, just and democratic
society, empowering citizens, consumers
and communities by taking strategic
action on public interest issues.
PIAC’S VISION
For a just, fair, inclusive and sustainable
society.
PIAC’S VALUES
Justice
Achieving justice in the public interest
Independence
Valuing independence, working with
passion and courage
Integrity
A strong ethical base, being accountable
Excellence
Quality, professionalism with the highest
standards, delivering results
Fairness and equity
In PIAC’s work and in the organisation
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PUBLIC INTEREST ADVOCACY CENTRE • ANNUAL REPORT 2008-2009