Parliament Introduces Justice Reforms to Boost Court Efficiency, Regulatory Simplification

The Regulatory Systems (Justice) Amendment Bill package includes three Bills aimed at improving different areas of the justice system: courts, occupational regulation, and tribunals.

A suite of justice reforms targeting court efficiency, access to justice, and the reduction of regulatory burdens was introduced to Parliament today by Associate Minister of Justice Nicole McKee.

The Regulatory Systems (Justice) Amendment Bill package includes three Bills aimed at improving different areas of the justice system: courts, occupational regulation, and tribunals. Together, these Bills make amendments to 24 existing Acts, reflecting a comprehensive strategy to enhance justice delivery across New Zealand.

“These amendments will make a meaningful difference and deliver on the Government’s commitments to improving the justice system,” Mrs. McKee said.

Key Reforms to Improve Court and Tribunal Operations

The Regulatory Systems (Courts) Amendment Bill aims to make courts more effective and participant-friendly.

“This Bill improves participants’ experiences with the justice system by introducing measures such as flexible jury selection. For instance, jury selection for large panels will be allowed to occur off-site, reducing logistical delays and making better use of jurors’ time,” Mrs. McKee said.

This Bill is the first in a series of planned legislative reforms, with further initiatives to be introduced by Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith aimed at bolstering the efficiency of court operations.

The Regulatory Systems (Tribunals) Amendment Bill introduces fairness measures to assist applicants in the Disputes Tribunal.

“For example, tribunal referees will now have the discretion to require respondents to repay filing fees to a wholly or partly successful applicant. This is a small but significant change that improves access to justice, particularly for non-monetary claims,” Mrs. McKee explained.

Streamlined Processes for Businesses

The Regulatory Systems (Occupational Regulation) Amendment Bill focuses on reducing unnecessary regulatory burdens, particularly for businesses.

“One key change is for real estate licensees. Instead of requiring a full new licence application when a renewal deadline is missed, the Real Estate Authority will now be able to renew licences for up to 12 months after expiration. This provides much-needed flexibility for those facing unforeseen disruptions, such as the severe weather events in the North Island in early 2023,” Mrs. McKee said.

Additional Enhancements

• Efficiency in Court Processes: Introducing online systems to streamline case management, including allowing digital submissions for routine paperwork, will further enhance timeliness.
• Support for Tribunal Accessibility: The new provisions include an increase in digital resources and interpreter services for individuals engaging with tribunals.
• Flexibility in Occupational Licensing: Additional professions will be reviewed for similar licence renewal extensions to reduce compliance burdens.

Broader Implications for New Zealanders

“These law changes will benefit New Zealanders across various walks of life,” Mrs. McKee said. “From improving how we select juries to easing compliance for businesses, these reforms are designed to make justice more accessible, efficient, and fair.”

The Bills also align with the Government’s broader goals of modernizing regulatory systems, improving public services, and fostering community trust in legal processes.

“These reforms represent a balanced approach to improving justice outcomes while minimizing unnecessary costs and complexity for individuals and businesses,” Mrs. McKee added.

The package of reforms is expected to undergo its first reading in Parliament in early 2024.