In 2025, the New Zealand Government is undertaking a comprehensive review of its legal aid system to ensure it remains efficient, sustainable, and capable of promoting equitable access to justice. The Ministry of Justice has released a public discussion document, open for submissions from 11 June to 23 July 2025, inviting input from individuals, legal professionals, and relevant stakeholders.
Legal aid in New Zealand provides government-funded legal advice and representation to individuals who cannot afford legal services. It plays a crucial role in preventing financial barriers from impeding access to justice. However, the system is currently under strain due to rising demand, increasing case volumes, and higher costs associated with third-party and specialist reports. These pressures are compounded in regions with limited provider availability and a growing workload across the legal profession.
The review will explore several key areas: the evolving profile of legal aid, the scheme’s sustainability, eligibility and repayment settings, procurement processes, provider incentives and remuneration, and mechanisms for quality assurance. The discussion document outlines current challenges and proposes potential reforms to address them.
To inform its recommendations, the Ministry will also engage directly with representatives from the legal profession, judiciary, and affected communities. Feedback from the consultation will guide advice to Ministers later in 2025, shaping the future direction of legal aid in New Zealand.
Members of the public can participate in the consultation by submitting views through the Ministry’s Citizen Space consultation hub or by post. The Ministry has committed to maintaining transparency in the review process in line with the Privacy Act 2020 and Official Information Act 1982. The review underscores the Government’s commitment to ensuring that access to justice remains a protected and practical right for all citizens.