The Attorney General of Samoa in collaboration with the Australia Attorney General
Department (AAGD) organised a comprehensive training program on “Legal Policy
Development ” for all Government lawyers.
The training was delivered by AAGD trainers Ms Lauren Murray and Mr Rory Williams at the
Tanoa Tusitala Hotel over 2 days on 1 – 2 July. The training covered a wide range of topics
defining policy development and the role of the public service in developing policies. Acting
Chief Legislative Drafter, Ms Siovia Liu, also presented on the challenges faced by the
Attorney General’s office when drafting instructions from the Ministries are not supported by
clear policies.
The Attorney General, Su’a Hellene Wallwork, expressed her gratitude to the Government of
Australia and AAGD for their support provided to the Government lawyers of Samoa. Su’a
was pleased to note that the Government in-house lawyers really appreciated the technical
training and the opportunity to spend 2 days having in-depth discussions and exchanges of
ideas on how the public service can develop sound policies that assist with drafting effective
laws for Samoa.
Deputy High Commissioner of Australia Ms Claire McGeechan spoke at the opening of the
training and she affirmed the Government of Australia’s dedication to supporting training
opportunities for effective legislative drafting for the benefit of the people of Samoa.