A step closer to justice and exciting new roles for Legal Aid leaders

South west Sydney justice precinct a step closer

For some time now, the Law Society has been advocating for the Federal and State Government to fund a multi-purpose justice precinct in Sydney’s south west. As local practitioners would be aware, court facilities in the region are out-dated, under-resourced, unsafe and failing to meet basic community needs.

I am very happy to report that the community of south western Sydney is one step closer to having the justice facilities they need.

On Friday, the Federal Government, NSW Government and Campbelltown City Council announced $1.2 million to fund the next stage of planning for a  Community and Justice Precinct in Campbelltown. The concept design stage will involve urban and landscape design, technical studies, open place strategy and environmental effects.

The announcement follows a $1 million strategic business case to investigate the potential development of a Community and Justice Precinct, funded by the Federal Government, the NSW Government and Campbelltown City Council, which was completed earlier this year. The proposed precinct would house federal and state courts, justice services and related support services.

It’s wonderful news and the Law Society looks forward to continuing to engage with all levels of government to ensure access to justice for people living in one of Australia’s fastest growing regions, now and in the future.

Exciting new roles for legal aid leaders

Congratulations to Brendan Thomas, who begins his new role as Deputy Secretary Transforming Aboriginal Outcomes at the NSW Department of Communities and Justice today. Brendan stepped down as CEO of Legal Aid earlier this month, a position he has held since 2017.

The Law Society has enjoyed a productive and collaborative relationship with Brendan during his time at Legal Aid. His legal career has been devoted to ensuring access to justice for the most vulnerable in our community. I wish him well in his new role working to improve outcomes for Aboriginal people in criminal justice, child protection and housing.

I’d would also like to acknowledge Annmarie Lumsden, who has stepped down as the Director of Criminal Law at Legal Aid NSW to take up an exciting new role as Director of the Northern Territory Legal Aid Commission (NTLAC), commencing 6 December 2021.

Annmarie has been at Legal Aid for more than 20 years and in her current role since October 2016.

Annmarie’s contribution to the profession and her association with the Law Society has been significant – she was is a former Councillor of the Law Society of NSW and has served on and been Chair of several Law Society committees, including the Criminal Law, Children’s Legal Issues, Government Solicitors, Human Rights, Family Law, Professional Conduct, and Diversity and Inclusion Committees. She has also been a Law Society of NSW Accredited Specialist in Criminal Law since 1999. We will miss her considerable input and expertise and wish her every success in leading NTLAC.

Juliana Warner, President, Law Society of NSW