National Indigenous Law and Justice Framework

On 6 November 2009, the Australian and State and Territory governments endorsed the National Indigenous Law and Justice Framework.  The Framework represents the first nationally agreed approach to Indigenous law and justice issues.

The Framework was developed by the Standing Committee of Attorneys-General.  It provides a comprehensive response to the many issues that drive Indigenous disadvantage in law and justice.

The goals of the Framework are to:

• improve all Australian justice systems so that they comprehensively deliver on the justice needs of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in a fair and equitable manner
• reduce over-representation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander offenders, defendants and victims in the criminal justice system
• ensure that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples feel safe and are safe within their communities
• increase safety and reduce offending within Indigenous communities by addressing alcohol and substance abuse, and
• strengthen Indigenous communities through working in partnership with government and other stakeholders to achieve sustained improvements in justice and community safety.

The direction and content of the Framework will be reviewed every year (first review in 2010).

If you have any questions, please contact the Indigenous Policy Section: (02) 6141 4822 or email: niljf@ag.gov.au