In June 2001, the National Pro Bono Task Force published its Report and Action Plan for the co-ordination of pro bono work. This saw momentum gather for the establishment of a National Pro Bono Resource Centre and the subsequent call for tenders by the Commonwealth Government for the establishment and operation of a National Centre.

In May 2002, the Commonwealth Government and Public Interest Advocacy Centre of NSW (PIAC) entered into an agreement in relation to services for the establishment of the Centre. PILCH (Vic.) continued to participate on the steering committee for the establishment of the Centre.

On 15 August 2002, the Centre was launched by the Commonwealth Attorney General, the Hon Daryl Williams QC.