Communication Partner Grant Program

78 The Hon. K.J. MAHER (Leader of the Opposition) (25 October 2018). Can the Attorney-General advise:

1. How many children or adults with complex communication needs access the Communication Partner Grant program each year?

2. What consultation occurred with Uniting Communities before cutting this program?

3. Who will now assist children or adults with complex communication needs in the justice system?

4. Whether the Attorney-General is concerned that children or adults with complex communication needs will have poorer outcomes in the justice system as a result of this cut?

5. Whether the Attorney-General can guarantee that children or adults with complex communication needs will still be able to give evidence and that evidence will be admissible?

6. Whether the Attorney-General can guarantee that cases involving children or adults with complex communication needs will not experience additional delays?

The Hon. R.I. LUCAS (Treasurer): The Attorney-General has provided the following advice:

1. The program began in 2016. In 2016-17, 41 children or adults were provided assistance. In 2017-18, this number totalled 72.

2. The state budget is considered cabinet in confidence until budget day. Accordingly, this measure was not the subject of consultation with external stakeholders.

3. The Communication Partner Service is funded until February 2020. Until this time, the service will continue to operate and be managed by Uniting Communities and volunteers will continue to provide communication assistance.

4. Children and adults with complex communication needs will still have access to communication assistance, which includes emotional support by family, carers or friends, and the use of a communication device in both forensic interviews and in court.

5. Children and adults with complex communication needs will still be able to give evidence in both forensic interviews and in court, and can access communication assistance to help facilitate the giving of evidence.

6. The decision to cease this program is not anticipated to impact the time frames for court cases.