Everyone who is granted ongoing legal aid pays a minimum initial contribution of $55. This can be paid off in instalments if necessary. Any further contribution that you may have to make is worked out on a sliding scale based on your financial position and the likely cost of the case. At the end of your case your contribution will be reassessed. If you have received a cash lump sum or a significant amount of property then your contribution may be increased. The money you contribute makes legal aid available to other people.

Any financial assistance received from the Contingency Fund has to be repaid with interest at the end of your case.