The Northern Territory Legislative Assembly today passed the Judicial Commission Bill 2020 to establish a formal statutory framework to deal with complaints about misconduct or mental or physical incapacity of judicial officers and ordinary members of the NTCAT.
With the passing of this legislation a Judicial Commission will be established whose functions will be to receive, examine and report on complaints regarding the behaviour or ability of judicial officers and ordinary (non-judicial) members of NTCAT.
The Judicial Commission will be comprised of the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, the Chief Judge of the Local Court, the President of the Law Society Northern Territory and a maximum of two community members.
The Administrator will appoint the two community upon recommendation.
The Commission is an investigatory body which may:
- Dismiss complaints;
- Refer it to the head of jurisdiction with recommendations for action; or
- Establish an investigation.
As noted by Attorney-General and Minister for Justice, Natasha Fyles:
“Our justice system is overseen by high-calibre and dedicated judicial officers and members who work hard to deliver justice for all Territorians.
“Work on this legislation commenced off the back of advocacy from the Chief Justice, Chief Judge, and the Law Society of the Northern Territory and is part of our government’s commitment being open and transparent.”
