Tribunals and Access to Justice

Abstract

A broad jurisdiction merit review tribunal is a peculiarly Australian innovation. First established in the Commonwealth, such tribunals have now been adopted in half Australia's jurisdictions. Legislation for such a body exists in Tasmania, and WA is looking favourably at the concept. That only leaves Queensland and the NT to follow suit. This article considers whether they should do so, and what should be the form of their general jurisdiction tribunal. Should they simply collocate existing tribunals? Or should they amalgamate existing tribunals? How should the tribunal's independence and stature be secured? These questions are considered against developments in Australia and the Leggatt Inquiry in UK.