Judicial appointment protocol discussion paper released for public input

The Palaszczuk Government is pushing forward with its plan to deliver a transparent protocol for judicial appointments in Queensland.

Attorney-General and Minister for Justice Yvette D’Ath today released a detailed discussion paper for public consultation on the current review and development of a protocol for judicial appointments in Queensland.

“Confidence in the expertise, independence and impartiality of the judiciary is essential to the proper functioning of government in Queensland,” Mrs D’Ath said.

“The Palaszczuk Government believes that the public will only share that confidence if the process for the selection and appointment of members of the judiciary can be seen to be transparent and genuinely consultative.

“That increased openness and awareness should also include a public discussion about what attributes, skill-sets and qualities we should seek in filling judicial positions.

“Delivering on the Government’s election commitment, I have committed to review the current process for the appointment of judicial officers in Queensland and to also consult extensively on the development of the protocol as to how judicial appointments ought to be made in this state.

“I am pleased to announce that a discussion paper will be released for public consultation today, to both stimulate discussion and to generate debate around the appointment of judicial officers in Queensland.”

Mrs D’Ath said the paper identifies the current process for judicial appointments to the Supreme, District and Magistrates Courts in Queensland but also sets out the legislation, policies and procedures for appointments in other Australian jurisdictions, as well as in England and Wales.

“It asks whether there should be a formal, and publicly available, procedure for judicial appointments in Queensland and how that protocol should look,” Mrs D’Ath said.

“This review is an important step towards a more transparent and accountable judicial appointments framework in this state and I encourage interested members of the public and anyone else to become involved.

“Anyone who is interested can provide feedback on the important issues and questions the discussion paper raises.”

Mrs D’Ath said the development of a judicial protocol would help to build on the respect for the independence of the courts and build faith in the appointment process.

“Queensland is served well by the professional, independent and respected judicial officers already,” she said.

“I want to thank the judiciary, professional associations and members of the legal profession who have participated in consultation with me for appointments to date, including for the appointment of Chief Justice.

“I appreciate their advice and counsel, the spirit in which the consultation occurred and the respect for confidentiality during those sensitive conversations.”

The discussion paper can be accessed via the State Government’s ‘Get Involved’ website at www.getinvolved.qld.gov.au.

Media contact: 0400774303