The ACT's prosecution office is set to receive millions of dollars in the territory budget as it deals with an increased volume of cases.
The ACT government has announced an $18.9 million investment in the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) in the 2026-27 territory budget, funding additional prosecutors and witness assistance officers.
The investment is set to fund 24 new and permanent positions, boosting the DPP's capacity to manage increasing volumes and complexity of cases and helping deliver timely prosecution outcomes.
The additional resourcing is set to ensure the DPP is equipped to meet demand and that victims, witnesses and complainants are better supported throughout the prosecution process.
ACT Director of Public Prosecutions Victoria Engel said there had been long-term, sustained pressure on prosecution services, particularly in sexual offence and family violence matters.
"The ACT budget helps alleviate this pressure, turning recent temporary measures into permanent funding and providing additional support," she said.
"The role of my office is not just to prosecute matters fairly and effectively, but to do so in a way that respects and supports victims, witnesses and complainants throughout the process. This investment will help us do both."
ACT Treasurer Chris Steel said the government would continue to prioritise the safety and well-being of victim survivors with support for frontline services and a strong justice response.
"This budget's significant additional investment in the DPP will support our police and prosecutors to bring perpetrators of domestic, family and sexual violence before the courts," he said.
"A strong and functional DPP is an essential part of the government's comprehensive, victim-survivor centred approach to preventing and responding to violence."
ACT Attorney-General Tara Cheyne said demand on prosecutorial services was growing, driven by population growth and increased reporting.
"This funding strengthens access to justice and reinforces our focus on supporting vulnerable people through the legal system," she said.
