The position of Aboriginal justice officer was established in December 1999 at the Port Adelaide Magistrates Court as part of a new fines payment initiative in South Australia.

AJOs also assist Aboriginal people to understand and comply with non-custodial sentencing options.

- top -

What do AJOs do?

Their responsibilities include:

• educating the Aboriginal community in the operation of the court and criminal justice system

• assisting Aboriginal people in court with bail obligations and court outcomes

• fostering links between the Aboriginal community and the court as consultants on Aboriginal issues and cultural awareness.

- top -

How successful has the program been?

A review of the program has shown that AJOs have greatly assisted the courts in their response to Aboriginal needs as well as improving the understanding Aboriginal people have about the criminal justice system and their access to it.

This is evidenced by:

• an increase in the number of Aboriginal people and their families telephoning and coming into the court;

• a decrease in displays of fear, anxiety and anger of people at the counter.

- top -

The future

The Courts Administration Authority is committed to expanding the AJO programme to areas of need including regional areas. An officer has also been appointed to the Drug Court to enable Aboriginal offenders better access to this program.