Western Australia is one step closer to joining the Legal Profession Uniform Law Scheme, with enabling legislation introduced into State Parliament today.
In February 2019, WA signed a landmark agreement with New South Wales and Victoria to join the Scheme. The passage of the Legal Profession Uniform Law Application Bill 2020 (WA) will allow new uniform laws for the legal profession to commence in WA as required under the agreement.
Uniform laws for the legal profession across Victoria and New South Wales have been in place since July 1, 2015.
The Legal Profession Uniform Law will create a simpler and more efficient system for both law firms and their clients by cutting red tape, better protecting consumers and ensuring consistency across our borders.
For more information about uniform law, visit: https://www.legalservicescouncil.org.au/
As stated by Attorney General John Quigley:
“A unified legal market between Western Australia, New South Wales and Victoria will deliver time and cost savings to consumers, the courts and the legal profession.
“Replacing the Legal Profession Act 2008, this Bill will continue to set high standards for legal practitioners in Western Australia and promote the interests of clients.
“When Western Australia officially joins the other participating States in the Uniform Law Scheme, the Scheme will operate in respect of almost 75 per cent of the legal profession in Australia.
“There are a number of benefits to joining the scheme, including enabling lawyers to practise seamlessly across jurisdictions under uniform legislation and regulatory standards rather than disparate legislation.
“This in itself will reduce compliance costs for firms operating across participating jurisdictions.
“I would like to see more States and Territories join Western Australia, New South Wales and Victoria in this important reform to bring all members of the legal profession under a national regulatory framework.
“I acknowledge the support of the legal profession, the Legal Practice Board, the Legal Profession Complaints Committee, the Law Society of Western Australia Inc, and the Western Australian Bar Association, together with many other stakeholders who have contributed to the development of this legislation.”
Attorney General’s office – 6552 6800
