The NSW Government is investing $14 million to strengthen support for people with a cognitive impairment who come into contact with the justice system.
The Government is extending funding for the Justice Advocacy Service (JAS) which helps people understand their rights and responsibilities when interacting with police, legal representatives and the courts.
The service is run by the Intellectual Disability Rights Service (IDRS) and has been extended for another two years until 30 June 2027.
“This funding extension ensures the Justice Advocacy Service can continue providing support to people with a cognitive impairment when they interact with police, legal representatives and the courts,” said Attorney General, Michael Daley.
“This is important to ensure equitable access to justice and fairness for vulnerable community members.”
It is available across the state, including in regional and remote areas, and has supported more than 9,000 people since 2019.
“Legal processes can be complex for anyone – but for people with a cognitive impairment, navigating the courts without adequate support can result in unjust outcomes with life shattering consequences,” said Minister for Disability Inclusion, Kate Washington.
“Thanks to the Justice Advocacy Service, people with cognitive impairment can access the support and advice they need as witnesses, victims or defendants.
“By extending this funding, we’re backing a service that makes sure people’s needs are understood which helps to ensure everyone in our courts gets a fair hearing.”
JAS also provides a voluntary diversion service helping eligible defendants to provide evidence of their impairment, apply for a diversion order, and access the NDIS and other support services.
This diversion service is available across six local courts – Downing Centre, Parramatta, Blacktown, Penrith, Gosford and Lismore – and has helped more than 900 clients since 2022.
“The Justice Advocacy Service supports more than 2,500 people with a cognitive impairment in their criminal proceedings each year,” said Intellectual Disability Rights Service Chief Executive Officer, Joanne Yates.
“JAS advocates contribute to the effective operations of the courts. Our work is critical in supporting vulnerable people with intellectual disability. This includes keeping them out of prison and diverting them into support services as appropriate.
“We welcome the extension of our vital funding for these next two years and thank the Attorney General and the Minister for their ongoing support,” she said.
