Victorian Bar welcomes Government access to justice commitments

24May2017

The Victorian Bar welcomes the Victorian Government’s response to the Department of Justice and Regulation’s Access to Justice Review as a significant investment in Victoria’s justice system.

The Government yesterday announced $34.7 million in funding for a host of recommendations to improve access to legal advice, support and information.

“The Victorian Bar applauds the Government’s pledge to supporting some of the most disadvantaged members of our community in their interactions with the justice system,” said Victorian Bar President, Jennifer Batrouney, QC.  “This funding demonstrates a commitment to support the courts in managing an ever-increasing demand on their resources.”

The Bar appreciates the recognition given to pro bono legal services provided by private practitioners, including barristers, to members of the Victorian community.

The Bar supports the measures recommended to ensure that the Victorian Legal Aid Board has an appropriate mix of skills among its members.  The Bar particularly commends the proposed measures to increase transparency in Victoria Legal Aid’s briefing practices and in operations generally, helping to achieve the most efficient and effective use of resources for legal assistance services.

“The Victorian Bar made a considered contribution to the Access to Justice Review and we are pleased that the Government is adopting almost all of the 60 recommendations made,” Ms Batrouney said.

A copy of the Government response is available at: https://engage.vic.gov.au/accesstojustice

A copy of the Attorney-General's media release is available at: http://www.premier.vic.gov.au/major-investment-to-improve-access-to-justice/

Media Enquiries: 

Michelle Hindson on +61 414 207 049 or by email to michelle@hindsonconsulting.com

Katherine Lorenz on +61 3 9225 7990 or by email to ceo@vicbar.com.au

News Category: 
Media Release