Released 09/04/2018
The ACT Government will boost resources to the ACT Magistrates Court by providing funding to appoint an eighth full-time magistrate, increasing access to justice and timeliness in the courts system.
Attorney-General Gordon Ramsay announced today the government had committed $3.1 million to the courts over the next four years to appoint the additional magistrate.
“Maintaining a fast and effective justice system that works for all Canberrans is a priority for this government, especially as the city’s population continues to grow,” Minister Ramsay said.
“An eighth magistrate means our courts can build on their excellent work from recent years, and also provide the Court with the resources it needs to meet increasing demand for years to come.”
Recruitment for the additional magistrate will begin shortly and will be conducted in line with the provisions set out in the Magistrates Court Act 1930.
Minister Ramsay said the appointment of a new magistrate will also ease the pressures currently being experienced within the coronial system, and also provide more timely justice for the victims of domestic or family violence, among other things.
“The government is committed to providing timely access to justice where a person has died in circumstances that require the involvement of the Coroner’s Court,” Minister Ramsay said.
“The government expects the appointment of an additional magistrate, combined with recent amendments to the Coroners Act that have narrowed the focus of the Coroner’s Court and simplified inquest processes, will ease the burden currently being experienced.
“Appointing an additional magistrate will also mean an improved capacity by the courts to provide justice for those most vulnerable in our community, such as victims of domestic or family violence. The trauma affecting individuals in these cases can be significant, and having the capacity to progress these cases expediently can at least go some way to starting the healing process for these individuals.”
The government has committed an additional $987,000 over four years for the Director of Public Prosecutions to employ additional staff as part of this agreement. Legal Aid will also receive $1.3 million to employ two additional staff members.
These extra resources will help both agencies to deal with their increased workload as a result of the appointment of the eighth magistrate.
- Statement ends -
Gordon Ramsay, MLA | Media Releases
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