The Office of the Attorney-General has been allocated $9.8 million in the 2026-2027 National Budget, a modest increase from $9.5 million in the previous financial year, with Government focusing on advancing long-awaited justice reforms and strengthening legal services.

Attorney-General and Minister for Justice Siromi Turaga says while the increase is not substantial, it is enough to continue key priorities despite the country’s challenging economic environment.

Turaga says the ministry understands the need for fiscal discipline and will continue to maximise available resources, even if some projects have to be rolled over into the next financial year.

Among the ministry’s major priorities is operationalising the Parole Board, which he says has remained inactive since the legislation was enacted.

He says once fully functional, the board could facilitate the release of between 500 and 600 eligible inmates, supporting rehabilitation efforts while easing pressure on the prison system.

Turaga says rehabilitation remains central to the justice system, with offenders encouraged to acquire skills and become productive members of society upon their release.

The Attorney-General also highlighted the implementation of the Child Justice Act, saying funding will help establish the systems and multi-agency structures needed to properly protect children who come into contact with the justice system.

He says the reforms are designed to ensure children are treated differently from adults, with greater safeguards throughout the legal process.

Turaga says the ministry will also continue investing in legal training and professional development as the workload across government continues to expand.

He says the Office of the Attorney-General now provides legal advice and representation across an increasing number of complex matters, including constitutional issues, legislative drafting and major government reforms.

The Attorney-General adds that the ministry has expanded its pool of experienced state lawyers in recent years while continuing to invest in specialised training and postgraduate education to strengthen legal capacity.

He also says the Ministry of Justice will continue its public legal awareness programmes, engaging directly with communities across the country, particularly young people, to improve understanding of the justice system and promote crime prevention.