The Challenge

The traditional courtrooms in most societies and in South Australia are crowded and over-burdened, with long delays and processes, which are very expensive to the state. Since a vast majority of crime is associated with drug and alcohol abuse, a simple prison sentence does not necessarily solve the problem.

Judge Hora sought to identify the current strengths within our justice system and provide guidance on approaches that address the causes of crime, dispute resolution, better management of the transition of offenders back into the community, and the development of a culturally appropriate, cost effective and responsive justice system.

Her recommendations addressed continuing education within the judiciary, and sought to provide guidance to government, legal professionals, community corrections and other interested groups on models for innovation and research in the justice system.

Judge Hora was in residence in August/September 2009 and March/April 2010.