New $1.6 million digital portal aims to streamline legal aid services in NSW
The NSW Government has introduced a new digital client portal for Legal Aid NSW, aiming to streamline access to legal case information and provide convenient digital tools to users, particularly those in remote or rural areas.
The objective of the $1.6 million initiative, funded through the Digital Restart Fund (DRF), is to provide Legal Aid NSW clients a secure platform that is optimised for mobile phone use, so they can track their case updates, manage court appearances, and upload documents from their smartphones, according to a news release. The Minns Labor Government noted the portal would reduce the need for phone inquiries with updates delivered directly through the digital tool.
In 2022-2023, Legal Aid NSW provided 500,000 client services, with 35% of those in regional and rural communities.
Minister for Customer Service and Digital Government Jihad Dib highlighted the portal’s importance for clients in rural and remote regions or those in temporary housing. “The new Legal Aid client portal will make it easier for people to access key information, receive timely updates and securely upload documentation on the go from their mobile phone,” he said.
“Supported by the Digital Restart Fund, this portal uses digital services to help communities and is in line with the Minns Labor Government’s focus on inclusion in the way digital services are designed and delivered.”
The Digital Restart Fund’s goals support projects like the Legal Aid client portal that are focused on improving government service accessibility, bolstering cybersecurity, and supporting frontline services, the news release noted.
“This portal is a game-changer for our clients. It enables them to easily view information about their cases, their lawyers, their appointments and court dates. That helps people to keep track of their legal matter and reduces the need for phone calls,” said Legal Aid NSW’s CEO Monique Hitter.
The portal is expected to be fully operational by late 2025.
