Mandatory Physical Court Appearances for Detained Defendants
Criminal Procedure Legislation Amendment Bill 2026
Topics
court appearances court procedures criminal proceedings domestic violence legal representation
Introduced by: The Hon Marie-Clare Boothby MLA (CLP)
Links to official parliament websites
Effects of this bill
If this bill passes, it means that:
The Debate
What different members said when this bill was debated:
“Madam Speaker, I present a Bill titled Criminal Procedure Legislation Amendment Bill 2026, Serial 58, and table the explanatory statement. I move that the Bill be now read a first time. When Territorians elected our government they were clear about what they wanted: to feel safe; a justice system that works; and real action.”
Dheran Young ALP
“Madam Speaker, we all want a justice system in the Territory that works; one that is fair, efficient and reduces harm in our communities. 50 --- Daily Hansard Thursday 7 May 2026 Meeting No 53 Labor supports practical steps that help our courts and legal services manage their growing workload, but let me be clear; these changes are being made because the system is under real strain.”
Matthew Kerle CLP
“Madam Speaker, I support this Bill. I do not have a long contribution, but it is an important one all the same. I pick up on a few comments from the Member for Daly. He said that Territory Labor wants to focus on the causes of crime not just the consequences. Experience has shown it does neither.”
Laurie Zio CLP
“Madam Speaker, the Criminal Procedure Legislation Amendment Bill 2026 is not some dry technical tweak; it is a long overdue correction to a court system that has been too slow, too bureaucratic and often too focused on process rather than outcomes.”
Andrew Mackay CLP
“Mr Deputy Speaker, I rise to add my contribution to what I think is fantastic legislation. It is important that we understand not just the technical details--I am incredibly grateful to the Member for Fannie Bay for ensuring they are detailed on the Hansard--but, more broadly, what we are hoping to achieve.”
Clinton Howe CLP
“Mr Deputy Speaker, I thank all the members who have contributed to the debate and the Member for Goyder for that passionate address. I also thank the minister for what has been huge reform across her portfolio. The Attorney-General has placed a real emphasis on bringing the balance of justice back to the system.”