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The Justice System

The Victorian justice system is based on the Westminster system of government which separates legislative, executive and judicial powers. This means that parliament makes the laws, the executive put the laws into operation and the judiciary or courts interpret the laws. This separation is contained in the Victorian Constitution which sets out the provisions, the power and behaviour, of each.

The Department of Justice supports the executive, and brings together government activities concerned with reform, administration and enforcement of the law in Victoria, including:

• all police and prosecution functions
• administration of the court system
• provision of the prison system
• administration of various tribunals and programs to protect citizens' rights
• provision of emergency services
• regulation of gaming, racing, liquor licensing and trade measurement
• drafting of legislation, and
• provision of legal advice to government.

This section provides more information about:

• justice legislation and how laws are created in Victoria
• how the community has been consulted about a range of issues, from tough new weapons laws, changes to sports betting, and innovations to the legal system
  
• the Neighbourhood Justice Centre; which will explore a restorative approach to justice, recognising the impact of crime on the broader community
• legal assistance available to Victorians
• the role of a Justice of the Peace and the process to become one
• statutory declarations; how to make one and who can sign one
• powers of attorney.