In light of recent news, the Queensland Law Society would like to restate our long-standing call for the establishment of an independent judicial commission.
Queensland Law Society President Kara Thomson said a strong and independent judiciary is essential to preserve public confidence in the administration of justice and the promotion of the separation of powers.
“Maintaining the integrity of the judicial system, and of government and public institutions requires scrutiny and oversight by a dedicated independent body,” Ms Thomson said.
“An independent judicial commission will enhance the openness, transparency and independence of the judicial system whose role would include examining complaints against judicial officers, including delays in delivering judgments and inappropriate or unreasonable conduct directed towards persons appearing before the officer.”
An independent judicial commission would also advise government on improving the efficiency of the administration of justice, provide professional development for our judicial officers based upon advisory guidelines setting out acceptable standards of judicial conduct and much more.
For more information on why Queensland Law Society recommends a judicial commission, refer to our 2022 Federal Election Call to Parties Statement and 2020 State Election Call to Parties.