Westjustice and Victoria University’s new memorandum of understanding is underpinned by individuals passionate making the law more accessible to everyone.
Tam Kumail is one of them.
“I have always been passionate about human rights but also my journey as a refugee I think inspired me to study law,” Ms Kumail said.
“I just wanted to be able to one day help minority communities and to be able to empower women coming from refugee backgrounds.
“I came here when I turned 14 without speaking any English.“
As part of their new memorandum of understanding (MoU), VU and Westjustice have agreed to work together on joint advocacy projects in the youth wellbeing, student employment and social inclusion spaces.
Living on the other side of the city, Ms Kumail studied at VU to give her access to the law in everyday life.
“Initially, it was a strategic decision as it is right near the Supreme Court and the County Court which gave me the opportunity to go to court after my classes and develop advocacy skills,” she said.
Constant emails from VU about volunteer opportunities at Westjustice were a big part of her deciding to intern there in 2023.
“That’s when I actually gained knowledge about the organisation’s values and the crucial role it plays in the community.
“It is what motivated me to join Westjustice in 2025 as a receptionist and now I successfully work as a legal admin within the family law and family violence team.“
Ultimately, Ms Kumail believes the mixture of robust guidance and no pressure is what makes Westjustice the perfect place for students of all stripes.
“If they are passionate about community service, human rights and they like a bit of a challenge, then I think Westjustice is a great place to start your legal career.”
Westjustice has been the perfect place for her to focus on her ambition of helping decriminalise young people, and viewing youth offenders as people first.
“It is very easy to just look at the outcome and label people, but what we need to do is look at the root cause of what is encouraging these young people to do these things.”
