FEDERAL ELECTION 2022
10 April 2022
The Australian Bar Association looks forward to the forthcoming election campaign and calls on all parties and candidates to outline policies directed at enhancing access to justice, improving the administration of justice, and promoting of the rule of law.
The many priorities in this critical sector include:
- a strong and independent Commonwealth court and tribunal system, with increased resources to reduce waiting times and backlogs, and ease the significant pressure placed on the system as a result of COVID-related lockdowns and other restrictions;
- adequate funding for legal aid to ensure that eligible Australians are able to access timely, high quality legal representation, particularly in criminal and family law matters;
- the establishment of a strong and properly resourced Commonwealth independent anti- corruption commission; and
- increased consultation in the making of judicial and tribunal appointments, to ensure that all potential candidates are considered and the views of the legal profession taken into account.
President of the ABA, Dr Matt Collins AM QC said, ‘The ABA has offered, and stands ready, to host a Justice Debate between the Commonwealth Attorney-General and Shadow Attorney-General, at which issues affecting the justice sector and the major parties’ competing policy platforms can be debated to assist all Australians in exercising their democratic right on election day.’
About the ABA
The Australian Bar Association is the peak body representing more than 6,000 barristers throughout Australia. Established in 1963, the ABA is committed to serving, promoting and representing its members, as well as advocating for fair and equal justice for all.
media@austbar.asn.au or call Róisín Ryan on 0433 375 940