As of 30 June 2025, Community Justice Centres (CJCs) across New South Wales have officially closed their doors. For decades, these centres have provided free, accessible mediation services to help people resolve disputes without going to court. Now that they’re gone, many individuals and families, especially in communities like Penrith, are left wondering: What happens next?
In this blog, we’ll explain what CJCs were, why they’ve closed, and what your options are for resolving disputes in the new legal landscape.
What Were Community Justice Centres?
CJCs were government-funded services that offered free, confidential mediation for a wide range of disputes, including:
- Neighbourhood disagreements
- Family conflicts (excluding parenting or property disputes post-separation)
- Workplace issues
- Small business disputes
They were designed to be informal, fast, and accessible, helping people avoid the stress and cost of court proceedings.
Why Did They Close in June 2025?
The NSW Government announced in early 2025 that CJCs would be phased out by 30 June, citing:
- A shift in focus toward court-connected mediation
- Budgetary constraints
- The availability of private mediation services
While some welcomed the move as a streamlining of services, others raised concerns about access to justice, especially for vulnerable or low-income individuals.
What Are Your Options Now?
Although CJCs are gone, mediation is still available—but the process has changed.
1. Court-Ordered Mediation
If you’re involved in a legal dispute, the court may refer you to mediation as part of the proceedings. This is common in:
- Family law matters
- Civil claims
- Small business disputes
2. Private Mediation Services
You can also engage a private mediator, often a solicitor or barrister trained in dispute resolution. While this comes at a cost, it can still be more affordable and efficient than litigation.
3. Legal Aid NSW
Some mediation services are still available through Legal Aid NSW, depending on your eligibility and the nature of the dispute.
Need Help Navigating Dispute Resolution?
Whether you’re facing a neighbourhood issue, a family conflict, or a business disagreement, Bell Lawyers is here to guide you through your options in the post-CJC landscape and help you find the best path forward. Let’s work together to give you the best possible chance of reaching a fair and lasting resolution. Call us today on (02) 4734 9333 or get in touch via our contact page.
If you’re looking for dedicated mediation services, visit our partner practice, Bell Mediation, offering professional family dispute resolution tailored to your unique situation.
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