Monday 12 October 2026

Twenty legal professionals from across Vanuatu’s justice sector undertook specialist advocacy training last week, with accredited international and ni-Vanuatu trainers leading the course to strengthen courtroom practice and improve access to justice.

The three-day workshop focused on practical skills used in appeals, including identifying legal and evidentiary errors, developing clear arguments, and presenting persuasive submissions in writing and in court.

The training was delivered through the long-standing partnership between the Ministry of Youth, Justice and Community Services (MYJCS), the Victorian Bar Association and the Australian Government. The Victorian Bar has supported advocacy training in Vanuatu since 1995 as part of ongoing efforts to build professional skills and strengthen legal services across the country.

Ni-Vanuatu trainers who have completed specialist accreditation in Australia led key components of the course, drawing on their local knowledge and courtroom experience. They were supported by six specialist barristers from the Victorian Bar Association.

Solicitor Kylie Bakeo Karu from the Office of the Public Solicitor led delivery of this year’s course. Ms Bakeo Karu and Principal State Prosecutor Betina Ngwele completed the Victorian Bar’s Trainer program in Melbourne in 2025, following Senior Public Solicitor Linda Bakotoko and Public Prosecutor Christopher Shem in 2024.

Australia supported all four legal professionals to undertake the program. Their accreditation has helped establish a growing pool of local trainers able to deliver advocacy training and support ongoing professional development across the justice sector.

Vanuatu Australia Policing and Justice Program (VAPJP) team leader, Cheri Robinson,[LV1]  said developing legal capacity remained a crucial part of the Vanuatu-Australia justice partnership.

“Australia values its strong partnership with Vanuatu – elevated through the Nakamal Agreement – and our shared commitment to strengthening justice services and protecting the rights of women, children and people with disability. Together, we are supporting a more inclusive and accessible justice system for all.”

MYJCS Director General Bergmans Iati said the training reflected the sector’s commitment to maintaining a capable and professional legal workforce.

“Vanuatu’s justice sector is fortunate to have talented and dedicated professionals who work every day to deliver services that meet the needs of our communities. Their work is central to strengthening the rule of law and protecting the human rights of all community members.

“We are supporting their continued professional development through our long-term partnership with Australia. The benefits of this training, and of wider support across the justice sector, are reflected in stronger legal services and improved access to justice for communities across the country.”

This year’s course had a particular focus on appellate advocacy, including identifying legal and evidentiary errors, developing clear grounds of appeal, and delivering persuasive submissions. Participants also strengthened their ability to address complex evidence in cases involving vulnerable victims and witnesses, including children and victim-survivors of violence.

The 2026 training brought together 20 legal professionals from the Office of the Public Prosecutor, Office of the Public Solicitor, and Office of the Attorney General’s litigation team. Seven provincial legal professionals from Santo and Tanna also participated, with Australian support helping expand access to professional development opportunities across the country.