Policy Bulletin 2026/6: Amendments to the Simplified Means Test

30 July 2026

The Legal Aid NSW Board approved changes to the Simplified Means Test.

Background

The growing demand for duty and grant services in the Local Court has reached an unsustainable level within the current budget environment, with service demand increasing by 10 per cent over the past year. As part of a broader suite of savings initiatives, the Board has approved a reduction to the eligible income limit for each household type under the Simplified Means Test. This change will reduce the number of applicants who are eligible for legal aid while ensuring assistance remains targeted to those who are most financially disadvantaged.

Applicants on part or maximum Centrelink income will remain eligible for legal aid under the Simplified Means Test. 

What has changed?

The eligible income limits under the Simplified Means Test have been reduced.

For details see Policy Online:

 

Start date

This change applies to applications submitted in Grants Online or after 30 July 2026.

Contact

For further information, contact the Client Eligibility Unit at: T-CEU@legalaid.nsw.gov.au.