The proposed bill introduces changes across 24 different acts
Associate Minister of Justice Nicole McKee introduced a series of bills to parliament to improve the justice system’s efficiency, accessibility, and regulatory quality.
The Regulatory Systems (Justice) Amendment Bill package proposes changes across 24 acts, focusing on courts, occupational regulation, and tribunals.
“These amendments form a comprehensive package that will make a meaningful difference and deliver on the Government’s commitments,” McKee said in a press release.
The Regulatory Systems (Courts) Amendment Bill seeks to enhance the experiences of court participants and streamline processes. One notable change allows jury selection for large panels to occur off-site, increasing flexibility and reducing delays.
“This Bill is the first in a series of initiatives intended to improve the courts’ effectiveness and efficiency,” McKee stated, referencing future legislative efforts planned by Minister of Justice Paul Goldsmith.
The Regulatory Systems (Tribunals) Amendment Bill introduces changes to improve access to justice for applicants in the disputes tribunal. It grants referees the discretion to order respondents to reimburse filing fees to applicants who are wholly or partly successful.
“This adjustment makes the system fairer, particularly for non-monetary claims, and ensures better access to justice for New Zealanders,” McKee noted.
Addressing the needs of business operators, the Regulatory Systems (Occupational Regulation) Amendment Bill includes provisions to ease strict timing requirements for renewing real estate licenses. The Real Estate Authority will now be able to renew licenses up to 12 months after expiry, avoiding the need for a new application.
“This change offers flexibility for those unable to meet renewal deadlines due to unforeseen circumstances, such as the severe weather events in early 2023,” McKee explained.
The amendments collectively aim to enhance the lives of New Zealanders by making court processes more efficient, improving fairness in tribunals, and reducing regulatory burdens on businesses.
“From making better use of jurors’ time to easing compliance for businesses, these changes will positively impact many people across the country,” McKee concluded.
