Fine program helps Vinnies volunteers give back

Did you know that Vinnies is part of a program that allows people financial hardship to volunteer in lieu of paying court fines?

The Work and Development Permit Scheme began operating just over a year ago and dozens of sponsors – including Vinnies – have come on board since then.

The scheme is a partnership between the Department of Justice, Legal Aid WA and the Aboriginal Legal Service of Western Australia, and it’s part of a suite of law reforms passed by the State Government to overhaul the fines enforcement regime. The aim is simple – people shouldn’t go to jail for being unable to pay their fines.

One participant who worked at a Vinnies store as part of the scheme says he’ll continue to volunteer, even though he’s completed his required hours. “It’s a way of giving back and increasing social interaction,” he says.

Click here to find out more about the Work and Development Permit Scheme