MEMBER for Coffs Harbour Gurmesh Singh has decried the planned closure of Community Justice Centres in NSW by 30 June 2025, arguing that the “cost to resolve small disputes is about to skyrocket”.

“There was no consultation or explanation for the closure of these Community Justice Centres, nor have any public announcements been made,” Mr Singh said.

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“The closure of Community Justice Centres in Coffs Harbour, across the North Coast and throughout NSW is causing angst in our community.

“Community Justice Centres have been successfully assisting NSW residents settle their disputes for over 40 years.

“Without them, costs will be higher, our courts will be under more pressure and there will be more demand for police intervention.”

In November 2024 the NSW Government offered the following response to questioning from Greens MLC Sue Higginson in parliament regarding the planned closure.

“The NSW Government remains committed to ensuring that the NSW community has access to information and services that help them resolve their disputes quickly and informally,” the statement read.

“The Department of Communities and Justice will establish an in-house mediation service for legislatively mandated referrals.

“The details of the new service, including the role of mediators, are currently being determined.

“The new service will be operational from 1 July 2025.”