Legislative Council passes vital reform

The Justice and Related Legislation (Miscellaneous Amendments) Bill 2025 has passed the Legislative Council.

While the Bill amends a number of Acts, it most significantly amends the Coroners Act 1995, now providing for a clear and direct right of access by senior next of kin to coronial records.

Attorney-General and Minister for Justice, Corrections and Rehabilitation, Guy Barnett, said this was a historic day.

"Today, I want to pay a special tribute to the Westbrook family," the Attorney-General said.

"Their advocacy has been tireless and I hope that this reform is a step closer to the closure that they are seeking.

"Our Government will continue to help Tasmanians deal with the challenges they face, with compassion and commonsense."

The Bill also includes minor amendments to the Corrections Act 1997, Tasmanian Civil and Administrative Tribunal Act 2020 and Workers Rehabilitation and Compensation Act 1998 to improve the operation of these Acts.