Published on Thursday, 25 June 2026 at 11:45:43 AM
MEDIA STATEMENT
For Immediate Release Thursday 25 June 2026
Shire of Derby/West Kimberley President Peter McCumstie is calling for an immediate reassessment of the processes and timeframes implemented by the Department of Justice for managing court matters across the Kimberley.
President McCumstie states that “the current situation is unsustainable, given the significant negative impacts on our community. Residents have every right to expect timely access to the courts, due process, and a fair justice system.”
He said the delays and current arrangements are unfairly affecting everyone involved in the court process, including families and individuals who are required to meet legal obligations set by the justice system.
“An immediate solution must be found. If additional funding is required, it must be allocated as a matter of the utmost urgency rather than waiting another two to three months for action to occur,” President McCumstie said.
He added that once the immediate situation is resolved, a comprehensive review of court processes and procedures must be undertaken to ensure similar issues do not occur again.
“The long-term goal must be to reduce the significant barriers faced by people in the Kimberley who are required to travel such extensive distances to access court services and ensure our region has a justice system that is accessible, timely and fair.”
ENDS
For media information:
Peter McCumstie
President
Shire of Derby/West Kimberley
PO Box 94 Derby WA 6728
08 9191 0999 | peter.mccumstie@sdwk.wa.gov.au
Tamara Clarkson
Chief Executive Officer
Shire of Derby/West Kimberley
PO Box 94 Derby WA 6728
08 9191 0999 I ceo@sdwk.wa.gov.au
Media and Communications Advisor
Shire of Derby/West Kimberley
PO Box 94 Derby WA 6728
08 9191 0999 I media@sdwk.wa.gov.au
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