The CLP Government has committed additional funding to Legal Aid NT, ensuring our justice system is efficient, fit for purpose, and capable of delivering high-quality legal services to Territorians, including victims.
Attorney-General Marie-Clare Boothby has announced an extra $5.235 million in funding for Legal Aid NT in 2024/25, comprised of:
$1.335 million already allocated.$3.9 million reprioritised from within the Attorney-General Department's existing budget to be provided in December 2024.
This funding will enable Legal Aid NT to resume halted services by January 2025, including:
Local and Supreme Court matters listed for 2025.Existing Bush Court matters.
"Legal Aid NT has long called for additional funding, which the former Labor government ignored," said Ms Boothby.
"In their eight years in government, Labor allowed the Territory's debt to balloon from $2 billion to $11 billion, neglecting critical services. Legal Aid NT plays a vital role - not just in representing offenders but in delivering justice for victims and all Territorians."
The Attorney-General's Department will work closely with Legal Aid NT to ensure sustainable and measurable outcomes for the community.
"We are committed to ensuring continuity of services and advocating nationally for needs-based funding for the Northern Territory," said Ms Boothby.
Regarding NAAJA:
Recent developments at the North Australian Aboriginal Justice Agency (NAAJA) may mark a turning point after more than two years of instability.
"NAAJA has been in shambles, with widespread calls for the board's resignation from the government and the sector," said Ms Boothby.
"We understand that NAAJA held its AGM yesterday to refresh its constitution and renew its board. While we await formal confirmation of the outcomes, we expect the entire board has stepped down to enable a fresh start."
Ms Boothby emphasised the importance of NAAJA restoring good governance and resuming its critical role in serving Territorians.
"It is critical that NAAJA has good governance, we will watch this, and if they aren't able to solve their issues we will look for alternatives and re-direct funding to ensure full service delivery," she said.
"After yesterday's AGM, NAAJA now has the opportunity to chart a new course and focus on delivering justice for Territorians."
