CLP Ensures Stability, Future for Legal Aid NT
The Finocchiaro CLP Government is taking action to deliver much-needed certainty, leadership and reform for Legal Aid NT after years of Labor’s neglect and underfunding of core legal services.
For the first time, Legal Aid NT will receive a multi-year funding agreement including a significant increase of $3.5 million in 2024-25 and $5.5 million each year ongoing from 2025-26, which represents around 80 per cent increase to previous baseline funding.
Attorney-General Marie-Clare Boothby said the funding announcement was a major turning point for the organisation, giving it the funding certainty it has called for over many years.
“While Labor ignored repeated calls for stable funding, we have acted to deliver the certainty Legal Aid NT needs to plan, recruit and support vulnerable Territorians,” said Ms Boothby.
“This is a long overdue vote of confidence in Legal Aid NT which will allow them to drive practical change, explore efficiencies, and continue their crucial role in delivering important legal services.”
The additional funding coincides with the work of the Legal Aid NT Sustainability Committee, which is overseeing an action plan to ensure the future proofing of the organisation’s approach to service delivery, management and operational efficiency.
“The Committee is supported by and is working closely with the CLP Government, and the Sustainability Action Plan is not just about money, but also about better outcomes and smarter ways of working,” said Ms Boothby.
At a Law Week event in Darwin this evening, Ms Boothby also announced the appointment of Ms Catherine Voumard as the new Director of Legal Aid NT, reinforcing the government’s commitment to a strong and sustainable justice system.
Ms Voumard, a highly experienced legal professional, will commence in the role on 30 June, taking over from Ms Jaquie Palavra who has served as Acting Director.
“I thank Ms Palavra for guiding Legal Aid through a difficult period; this is now a moment for strong, permanent leadership to drive reform and deliver better outcomes for Territorians,” said Ms Boothby.
Ms Voumard was directly appointed by the Attorney-General, as per the Legal Aid Act 1990, and brings diverse experience in the legal sector, both in the Northern Territory and South Australia.
Over the past four years, Ms Voumard has mentored junior practitioners, worked as an independent barrister at Len King Chambers, and contributed to the Aboriginal Legal Rights Movement.
She has previously worked with key legal institutions in the Territory, including the North Australian Aboriginal Justice Agency (NAAJA), NT Legal Aid Commission, the Director of Public Prosecutions, and Maley’s Barristers and Solicitors.
Her deep understanding of the NT legal landscape and experience appearing in Local, Supreme, and circuit courts in remote communities make her uniquely qualified for this role.
“Legal Aid NT has faced significant challenges, particularly in criminal law, and Ms Voumard’s extensive experience as a criminal lawyer will be invaluable in driving much-needed reform,” said Ms Boothby.
“I am confident Ms Voumard will deliver the change required to ensure Legal Aid NT remains sustainable and continues supporting its dedicated staff.
“We are investing in solutions, leadership and long-term improvements, because, unlike the previous Labor government, we refuse to accept the status quo.
“This is part of our Year of Action, and we will continue our focus on delivering a justice system that works for Territorians.”
https://nt.gov.au/