The government is accepting responses until 21 February
The Australian Government is accepting submissions and inputs on the model and key features of a federal judicial commission until 21 February.
The Australian Law Reform Commission recommended in its 2021 report that Australia should consider the establishment of a federal judicial commission. The government started considering the merits and design of a federal judicial commission that could independently examine and deal with complaints made to it about federal judges after
A federal judicial commission would complement the National Anti-Corruption Commission which would commence operation this year, further building on the Australian government’s strong commitment to integrity, fairness, and accountability across all areas of government.
the government has invited submissions on the commission, addressing the questions and themes set out in a discussion paper, beginning 17 January.
The Law Council of Australia has welcomed the opportunity to provide input on the model and key features of a federal judicial commission. The council has called for a federal judicial commission to be underpinned by four key features: independence, coherence, accessibility and transparency.
Law Council president Luke Murphy said, “We have been calling for a standalone federal judicial commission since 2006 because we believe having a means to fairly address complaints about the judiciary is essential to the promotion of the rule of law”.
The Law Council sees a role for a federal judicial commission in the provision of education, training and development to the judiciary and in assisting judges with difficult ethical questions.
“Our Policy on the Process for Judicial Appointments lays out principles for judicial appointments which we believe will also help strengthen our judiciary and maintain public confidence in the administration of justice. It highlights the importance of a selection being made on merit and through a consultative and transparent process”, Murphy added.
Submission and inputs can be provided through an online survey or in a written submission addressing the questions raised in the government’s discussion paper.