In an October 2024 court appearance on grave charges, a young man was granted permission by Judge Penelope Wass to deliver an Acknowledgement of Country. This gesture, often a significant cultural practice, added an unusual dimension to the legal proceedings.

Meanwhile, there is growing scrutiny surrounding the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP). Discussions are underway about the possibility of the Committee recommending the removal of Senior Officers. The basis for such a drastic measure would be incompetence or misconduct, as the Committee weighs the appropriateness of this action.

The controversy deepens with a recent police investigation into a leak from the ODPP. Although the inquiry did not lead to any charges, it has spotlighted ongoing issues within the media office of the ODPP.

Highlighting these concerns, Ms. Dowling pointed out that the ODPP’s media team has since undergone additional training. Moreover, an officer involved in the incident has received counseling, suggesting steps are being taken to address internal weaknesses and prevent future leaks.

Ms Dowling noted there had been a police investigation, and also that the ODPP’s media office had received extra training and that an officer involved had been ‘counseled’.