Smith Street Working Group - Breaking Bread and Breaking Down Barriers 

In this session we hope you will be inspired by the work done by Hieng Lim and the Smith Street Working Group in Melbourne to bring peacemaking and conflict management strategies to a troubled street.

From a place of conflict and decay to the Coolest Street in the world,

The story may not have been possible without the innovative Neighbourhood Justice Centre (NJC) in Collingwood, Australia’s only community justice centre.

Remember, community-driven initiatives like the Smith Street project play a vital role in shaping our neighborhoods and promoting justice.

Hieng Lim’s personal journey is inspiring. Fleeing Cambodia’s genocidal Khmer Rouge regime as an eight-year-old, he eventually found his purpose in promoting community well-being.

As a trained lawyer and mediator, Hieng Lim contributes significantly to building strong and harmonious communities through the NJC.

His involvement extends beyond legal matters; he actively engages with the community, fostering openness, reconciliation, and positive change.

Hieng’s commitment to the Smith Street Working Group exemplifies his dedication to creating a vibrant and inclusive neighborhood.

Through collaborative efforts, the NJC and Hieng Lim continue to make a meaningful impact on the lives of residents in Collingwood and beyond2.