Standing Council on Law and Justice
What is the Standing Council on Law and Justice ( SCLJ)?
SCLJ is a national ministerial council. Its members are the Australian Attorney-General, the State and Territory Attorneys General and the New Zealand Minister of Justice. Norfolk Island has observer status at SCLJ meetings.
SCLJ provides a forum for Attorneys General to discuss and progress matters of mutual interest relating to law and justice, including legal policy and service provision. The Council focuses on initiatives of high-level, strategic and national significance that require cooperation between jurisdictions to address.
The broad themes that the work of SCLJ covers are:
- Criminal justice;
- Indigenous justice;
- Access to justice;
- Social justice and the protection of rights;
- Applying the rule of law in evolving circumstances; and
- Minimising regulatory burdens through the harmonisation of laws.
When and where does SCLJ meet?
SCLJ is expected to meet two times a year, in April and October, unless Ministers determine otherwise. The Council’s meetings are held in conjunction with the Legislative and Governance Forum on Corporations.
Meetings of SCLJ are held in each jurisdiction on a rotating basis. The Minister hosting a particular meeting chairs that meeting.
Who is involved in SCLJ?
The Australian Government Attorney-General’s Department is responsible for coordinating the Australian Government’s involvement in SCLJ.
SCLJ members are supported by departmental officers from their respective Departments. Officers generally meet six weeks before Ministers.
The Secretary to SCLJ is the Director General of the NSW Attorney General’s Department. Secretariat functions are performed by New South Wales Attorney General’s departmental officers .
Contact:
Executive Officer
Standing Council on Law and Justice
NSW Attorney General’s Department
Level 14, 10 Spring St
SYDNEY NSW 2000
Telephone: (02) 8061 9325
Facsimile: (02) 9321 0351