Commissioned by the Australasian Institute of Judicial Administration (AIJA), a scholarly report titled "The Australian Jury in Black & White – Barriers to Indigenous Representation on Juries" identifies significant structural and systemic factors affecting the representation of Indigenous Australians on juries.
Challenges highlighted in the report span from non-enrolment on the electoral roll and outdated electoral details to skewed jury district boundaries and issues within the jury selection process. This encompasses non-responses to summons, financial strains, communication gaps, peremptory challenges, and prosecution stand asides. Further obstacles stem from familial and community responsibilities, health disparities, language barriers, mistrust of the justice system, and deep-rooted cultural ties. The report emphasises that addressing these barriers is not merely about identifying them but also navigating the intricate challenges of implementing change in this space.
The study advocates for robust Indigenous community consultations and suggests drawing inspiration from successful reforms like those in Ontario, Canada.
For an in-depth exploration of these challenges and the proposed solutions, read the full report via the link below.