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Ahead of the November 2026 election, the Law Institute of Victoria has issued a call to action to those who may soon have the power to strengthen the justice system and protect vulnerable residents.
Over 20 recommendations have been made to Victorian politicians ahead of the election, including for critical funding into the justice system, safeguarding the rule of law, addressing the root causes of crime, and navigating the use of artificial intelligence.
On the former, the Law Institute of Victoria (LIV) said there needed to be a commitment to further funding for the legal assistance sector, a reduction in the delays across courts and tribunals, and attention to the growing demands for better court infrastructure.
LIV CEO Adam Awty said the justice system “plays a vital role in ensuring community confidence in the administration of justice”.
“When courts are delayed, legal assistance is underfunded, or confidence in the rule of law is weakened, the impact is felt by families, businesses and communities across the state.
“We ask the parties to commit to reforms that will strengthen Victoria’s justice system, support business and economic growth, and protect vulnerable Victorians,” Awty said.
In addition to balancing regulatory and compliance obligations around artificial intelligence with better privacy and cyber security outcomes, the LIV said future Victorian politicians should also commit to assisting the legal sector with responsible use.
It also asked that youth crime, prison conditions, sentencing and public housing be addressed, alongside “evidence-based, targeted solutions to deter crime, such as increasing funding for early intervention, community-based supports and accessible rehabilitative services”.
Donna Cooper, general manager at LIV, said: “Obtaining legal help is often the difference between a person being able to rebuild their life or being left to navigate the crisis alone.
“The lawyers who provide these services do so because they are committed to their communities.
“But goodwill cannot sustain a system facing rising demand, workforce pressures and inadequate funding.
“Investment in legal assistance is an investment in prevention, fairness and better outcomes for Victorians.”
