Attorney General John Quigley is pleased to announce the State Solicitor's Office will now be an independent sub-department of the Department of Justice.
This is an important move that further cements the independence and autonomy of the 183-year-old institution, and is considered legal best practice.
On February 20, 2018 the Premier tabled the Special Inquiry into Government Programs and Projects: Final Report - otherwise known as the Langoulant Report - to Parliament.
It recommended the status of the State Solicitor's Office would be enhanced by creating it as a separate office.
The State Solicitor's Office provides legal advice on matters of high risk, it is the principal legal advisor to Cabinet and Government and therefore its integrity is of the utmost importance.
This move is in line with the Western Australian Public Sector reform priorities of transparency and accountability.
This move will address perceptions about impartiality, conflicts of interest and integrity, and is widely supported by the legal profession.
As stated by Attorney General John Quigley:
"This move further cements the independence of the State Solicitor's Office and brings it into line with other jurisdictions.
"Implementing this Langoulant Report recommendation is also supported by the Solicitor General and the Director of Public Prosecutions."
Attorney General's office - 6552 6800
