The 2026 Budget places the justice system at the forefront of national development, delivering historic investment aimed at strengthening institutions, modernising infrastructure, and ensuring fair and efficient access to justice for all.

The 2026 Budget once again places justice and citizens at the centre of national priorities. It reflects a clear vision for a Malta that strengthens its families, its justice system and its economy, a country that looks ahead with responsibility and determination while remaining committed to putting people at the heart of every decision. The Labour Government continues to demonstrate its belief in a strong and modern justice system, marked by the largest financial allocation in history to the Justice and the Reform of the Construction Sector, reaching €93 million.

This investment is already translating into tangible results. A new courtroom dedicated to juries has been inaugurated, contributing to a record of 18 juries held in a single year, far above the usual annual average of one to eight. Projections for next year indicate an even higher number. A new building for Magisterial inquiries has been inaugurated, featuring two modern halls and specialised spaces for the collection of evidence. The clearance rate has reached 65%, with 1,251 inquiries initiated and 830 concluded. The new Commercial Court building in Valletta will also significantly enhance efficiency through modern halls and advanced technology, strengthening Malta’s competitiveness in investment, maritime affairs, aviation and commerce. Furthermore, a promise of sale has been signed for a new and modern Gozo Court, ensuring that justice infrastructure evolves across all regions.

Human resources within the justice sector have also reached historic levels, with 600 employees, the highest number ever recorded. Notably, ten years after the Labour Government introduced the Court Attorney initiative, the judiciary now benefits from 41 full-time Court Attorneys, with support also extended to magistrates and 51 Judicial Assistants. In November, two judges and two magistrates were sworn in, joining the largest judiciary in the country’s history. An open call has now been issued for the appointment of a judge and three magistrates. These advancements have been reinforced by the successful conclusion of a record number of new collective agreements for employees in the sector, with discussions underway to reach agreements on several others in the near future.

It is also important to note that in 2025 alone, eight new laws were enacted, 17 subsidiary legislations were published, three laws entered the committee stage, and eight additional bills are currently on the parliamentary agenda. The sector now looks forward to the implementation of the Family Court and Compilation of Evidence reform, marking another step towards greater efficiency, accessibility and fairness in the delivery of justice.

Our work in the fields of justice and construction, together with other essential reforms, reflects our commitment to a country built on quality. A country where every citizen benefits from systems that are fair, efficient and sustainable. This is the path we choose for Malta.