Volunteers are the lifeblood of Marrickville Legal Centre – their dedication enables us to connect even more people in the community to justice. Vollie Vox is a campaign dedicated to showcasing and interviewing one excellent volunteer a month.
This month we’re celebrating Nicola Riley, who has volunteered with Marrickville Legal Centre as a Client Intake Officer since May last year. Nicola was nominated for her professionalism, the quality of her intake work, and her enthusiasm in supporting newer volunteers.
What inspired you to start volunteering at MLC, and what keeps you coming back?
A colleague recommended MLC to me after their sibling had a great experience volunteering here. I was looking for a way to gain first-hand legal experience while combining my passion for social justice with my studies. Working in a medical centre, I saw how many people in the community struggle to access legal help because of financial barriers and how this impacts their health. That really motivated me to get involved. What keeps me coming back is the supportive community at MLC, who are always happy to answer my questions and provide invaluable learning opportunities.
How do you feel your role makes a difference for our clients and community?
It feels important to offer real human connection when AI, social media and technology are changing the way we interact. A real human connection is personal, and it makes a difference. Speaking directly with clients, hearing their stories and helping them take that first, and potentially daunting step toward support, makes a tangible difference. Being able to provide a calm and supportive voice at the end of the phone and a clear pathway to legal assistance may be the first moment they feel heard.
What skills have you gained while volunteering at MLC?
I have gained so many practical and interpersonal skills. I’ve learned how to communicate both empathically and effectively with clients who may be heightened or distressed. I have also learnt, how to guide conversations toward the key legal issues, and how to accurately convey this information. MLC has given me opportunity to develop a broader understanding of a wide range of legal issues, and that learning continues every shift. The exposure to real legal issues has been invaluable.
What’s something that surprised you when you first started volunteering at MLC?
I was genuinely surprised by how kind, collaborative and approachable everyone is – staff and volunteers alike. The staff are incredibly supportive and always willing to help, explain or teach. It’s a very open environment where questions are encouraged. I also didn’t expect the level of learning opportunities available. The training sessions on different areas of law and the occasional chance to sit in on advice appointments have been highlights.
How would you describe MLC to someone thinking about getting involved?
MLC is a deeply supportive community committed to promoting access to justice, especially for people who might otherwise fall through the cracks. The culture is warm, inclusive and genuinely invested in both the volunteers and the clients. If you’re looking for a place where you can learn, contribute and be part of meaningful work, MLC is the place to be.
