Commission research and undertake public consultation processes on issues relating to diversity and inclusion in Australia’s judicial system. Issues relating to diversity and inclusion encompasses people and communities who experience social exclusion and disadvantage, including but not limited to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, migrants and refugees, people with disabilities, LGBTQI+ people, women, and older Australians. The focus of this work includes, but is not limited to:

• Interaction between Australia’s diverse communities and Australian courts and tribunals, in Federal and State and Territory jurisdictions, and in areas of criminal, civil and family law.
• Attitudes to Australia’s judicial system among Australia’s diverse communities – identifying any areas of concern for Australia’s social cohesion.
• Perceived and actual barriers to justice experienced by Australia’s diverse communities.
• Access to interpreting and translating services in Australia’s judicial system.
• Experience of Australia’s diverse communities as jurors, litigants, or consumers of court information.

Develop and provide independent advice on protocols, best practice guidelines and proposals for dealing with diversity and inclusion issues in Australian courts and tribunals for consideration by the Council of Chief Justices.

Engage in two-way communication with the Diversity and Inclusion Justice Network regarding implementation of initiatives to improve access to justice for Australia’s diverse communities.