Queensland Attorney-General and Minister for Justice, Rod Welford, said the reforms had brought greater independence, accountability and transparency to the way the legal profession is regulated.

A primary focus of the new regime has been the establishment of the Legal Services Commission, which will receive and manage all complaints, Welford said.

“The Legal Services Commissioner decides what action needs to be taken about a complaint and whether disciplinary action is taken against a lawyer,” Welford said.

“Serious matters which could involve a lawyer being struck off or suspended will be heard by a Legal Practice Tribunal, while a Legal Practice Committee will hear minor charges of unsatisfactory professional conduct,” he said.

Chaired by the Chief Justice, the Legal Practice Tribunal will include Supreme Court judges as members, but will be advised by practitioners and lay members.