Content Warning: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander readers are advised the following may include the names of First Nations people who have passed away. This email also includes distressing content.
Welcome to the July issue of the Justice Brief.
News and Updates
TAKING | Strategic Legal Action – speaking out leads to lasting change
One family's decision to speak out has led to change across the Australian Electoral Commission. Barkindji Koori man Murray Benton and his family lodged the complaint following traumatic experiences at a polling booth during the 2023 Voice Referendum. The AEC has now introduced major reforms to improve the experience of First Nations peoples engaging with the Australian electoral system.
EXPOSING | Powerful evidence ongoing racism in Australia through Public Inquiry
Powerful evidence of racism, hate and violence targeting First Nations people has been shared through a Parliamentary Inquiry. Together with Call It Out, in partnership with Jumbunna Research, and the Alternative First Responders Campaign, we've called for urgent change.
REPORTING | Appeal – Thank you to supporters this End of Financial Year
Because of generous supporters, we raised more than $205,000 to help protect children experiencing harm in Australia. Support helps us to stand alongside our clients, advocate for change and work towards a future where every child feels supported and cared for.
NAIDOC – Celebrating trailblazers this NAIDOC week
This NAIDOC Week, we celebrated the First Nations trailblazers who have shaped Australia's future and whose achievements continue to inspire communities. Through their courage and leadership, they have paved the way for future generations. Meet some of the trailblazers leading change like Chair of the Board Larissa Behrendt.
IMPACTING | Community – Having a mental health crisis is not a crime
The Alternative First Responders team stood alongside BEING - the peak body for mental health consumers in NSW, as well as families, advocates and community organisations to honour lives lost following police responses to mental health crises. Find out why we're calling for greater investment in community-led alternatives.
JOGGING | For Justice – Take on a challenge
Over the next few months, there are some amazing running events across the country where you can take on a personal challenge while supporting the National Justice Project. Every kilometre helps power our work to advance justice and protect human rights.
HIGHLIGHTING | In the Media
- Coroner finds investigation marred by racism via ABC news. 21 June 2026
- A powerful outcome in the Mark Haines Inquest via NIRS news, 26 June 2026
- Alternative First Responders Webinar reflection via 3CR, 30 June 2026
- Claims of racism at referendum ballot box spark huge reform via AAP, 8 July 2026
- AEC introduces mandatory cultural training via NIT, 8 July 2026
- Murray says his family were profiled at the Voice Referendum via SBS, 10 July 2026
SUPPORTING | Social Justice
The National Justice Project is funded by donors committed to the fight for social justice.
As a Public Benevolent Institution, The National Justice Project is endorsed as a Deductible Gift Recipient (DGR) covered by Item 1 of the table in section 30-15 of the Income Tax Assessment Act 1997. Donations of $2.00 or more are tax deductible.
Kind Regards,
The National Justice Project Team
MORE:
National Justice Project (NJP)
Address: PO Box 123, Broadway NSW 2007
Tel: +61 2 9514 4440
We acknowledge that we live and work on the lands of First Nations Peoples, and we pay our respects to their Elders past and present. Our Sydney office is located on the lands of the Gadigal People of the Eora Nation, whose sovereignty was never ceded. This land always was, and always will be, Aboriginal land.