Question On Notice No. 829 asked in the Legislative Council on 11 August 2022 by Hon Nick Goiran
Question Directed to the: Parliamentary Secretary representing the Attorney General
Parliament: 41 Session: 1
Question
I refer to the Family Court Amendment Regulations
(No. 2) 2022, and I ask:
(a) what
was the catalyst for bringing about these amendments to the regulations;
(b) who
was consulted prior to these amendment regulations being finalised;
(c) did
any person consulted raise any concerns;
(d) if
yes to (c), what were these concerns;
(e) have
the finalised amendment regulations addressed these concerns; and
(f) if
no to (e), why not?
Answered on 21 September 2022
(a) As part of the 2022/23 budget process the Court and Tribunal Services Division of the Department of Justice (the Department) undertook its annual review of its fees and charges. The Family Court Regulations 1998 (WA) (WA Regulations) formed part of this review. The Department consults annually with the Commonwealth Attorney-General’s Department (the Commonwealth) regarding the Consumer Price Index increased fees under the Family Law (Fees) Regulation 2012 (Cth) (Cth Regulations). The fee increases for the 2022/23 were provided by, and confirmed with, the Commonwealth and correspond with the gazetted fee increases under the Cth Regulations.
(b) Consultation occurred with the Commonwealth Attorney-General’s Department and the Family Court of Western Australia.
(c) Each person consulted during the drafting exercise was able to provide feedback, comments and suggestions. No concerns were raised.
(d) None to note.
(e) - (f) Not applicable.