Australia's framework for law and justice engagement with the Pacific
Joint media release: Attorney-General Robert McClelland and Minister for Foreign Affairs Stephen Smith
15 June 2010
Attorney-General, Robert McClelland and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Stephen Smith today launched Australia's Framework for Law and Justice Engagement with the Pacific.
The new Framework provides a statement of the priorities and principles that will guide Australia's work in the Pacific in the law and justice sector, including:
- working with our Pacific Island neighbours to develop approaches to law and justice appropriate to local circumstances and contexts;
- complementing and building on existing systems; and
- ensuring Australia's development activities are well coordinated and targeted.
Australia is committed to helping Pacific countries strengthen the rule of law and protect human rights.
"Effective law and justice promotes regional security, helps attract foreign investment and is critical to ensuring access to justice—particularly for the poor and vulnerable," Mr McClelland said.
Australia currently supports programs in the region to build the capacity and effectiveness of police, public prosecutors and defenders, ombudsmen, law officers, correctional services and the judiciary.
"Our assistance to the law and justice sector is vital to Australia's broader development assistance objectives in the Pacific region," Mr Smith said.
The Framework will ensure that Australia's work is well directed, targeted and comprehensive.
Australia's Framework for Law and Justice Engagement with the Pacific is available at www.ag.gov.au/pacificframework.
Media inquiries
- Media Contact: Adam Siddique (McClelland) 0407 473 630