Since early 2017, the Law Council of Australia has been conducting a national, comprehensive review into the state of access to justice in Australia for people experiencing significant disadvantage.

The Justice Project, overseen by an expert steering group led by the former Chief Justice of the High Court, the Hon. Robert French AC, is one of the most extensive reviews of its type in the past 40 years.

It is also one of the most important pieces of work the Law Council has ever undertaken.

Around 150 consultations were held, and 129 submissions received, revealing often heartbreaking accounts from everyday Australians about the devastating consequences of not being able to access justice, or of receiving poor justice outcomes.

Focussing on 13 priority groups identified as facing significant social and economic disadvantage, the final report shines a light on justice issues for these groups by undercovering systemic flaws and identifying service gaps. It also highlights what is working well.

The constructive, informed recommendations in the final report provide a roadmap for future action, building the case for new, whole-of-government justice strategies secured by appropriate funding.

The final report comprises of 22 chapters and 59 recommendations.