EMBARGOED UNTIL 2:30PM 5 JUNE 2007 State Budget delivers access to justice for all Queenslanders

The Queensland Government today announced increased funding to deliver justice services and modern court facilities for all Queenslanders.

Attorney-General and Minister for Justice Kerry Shine said $481.1 million was forecast to be invested in the Department of Justice and Attorney-General next financial year, compared to the $417.9 million committed last financial year.

Mr Shine said the increased investment would improve access to justice for all Queenslanders by delivering modern justice facilities, addressing the causes of crime and supporting some of the most vulnerable people in our community.

Mr Shine said the budget also delivered an increased focus on protecting vulnerable people in the justice system with $3.7 million in 2007-08 to implement the recommendations of the review of the Mental Health Act 2000 (the Butler Review).

A key highlight of this year’ budget is the $2.4 million over three years for a pilot judicial registrar program to address growing workload of Queensland Magistrates Courts.

This budget also continues the four year pilot Queensland Indigenous Alcohol Diversion program, a court-based treatment program for Indigenous defendants who are alcohol dependent and support for the Murri Courts - a key initiative in addressing the over-representation of indigenous people in the criminal justice system;

Mr Shine said $101.8 million is also committed for capital works and acquisitions, including $11 million to progress the design of a new District and Supreme Court complex in Brisbane.

Funding is also allocated this year for the Ipswich courthouse $40.4 million and funding will continue in 2007-08 to build courthouses at Pine Rivers, Mareeba and Sandgate.

In addition, Legal Aid Queensland (LAQ) will receive an additional $12.5 million in 2007-08, with a further $1.1 million earmarked for Community Legal Centres and initiatives.

“I am delighted this additional funding will be provided to LAQ through the Legal Practitioners Interest on Trust Account Fund, which is administered by the Department of Justice and Attorney-General.”

“Additional funding of $7 million has been allocated over four years through the Guardianship and Administration Tribunal, the Office of the Adult Guardian, the Community Visitors Program and the Office of the Public Advocate to provide improved advice and support concerning the health care, residential services and financial matters.”

Mr Shine said the 2007-08 budget further strengthened the department's commitment to improve access to justice and ensure we deliver the services Queenslanders need.

5 June 2007
Media contact: Kirby Anderson (Mr Shine’s office) 3239 6400 or 0418 197 350 kirby.anderson@ministerial.qld.gov.au