Whole of Government Adoption of the Equitable Briefing Policy and the Model Litigant Policy The Department introduced an Equitable Briefing Policy and a Model Litigant Policy in 2004. Cabinet has now approved the adoption of these policies for all government agencies. The Model Litigant Policy is designed to provide guidelines for best practice for government agencies in civil litigation matters. It is founded upon the concepts of behaving ethically, fairly and honestly to model best practice in litigation. Under the policy, government agencies are required to: a) Deal with claims promptly b) Not take advantage c) Pay legitimate claims d) Avoid litigation e) Keep costs to a minimum, and f) Apologise where the State has acted inappropriately. The Equitable Briefing Policy is designed to promote opportunities for women at the Bar. It is founded on equity principles. Under the policy, when government agencies engage barristers or advocates, they are to take reasonable endeavours to: a) Identify female counsel in the relevant practice area b) Genuinely consider engaging female counsel c) Monitor and review the engagement of female counsel, and d) Periodically report on the nature and rate of female counsel engaged. More information on the policies can be obtained on the Guidelines, policies and best practice standards for legal services page Laurie Glanfield Director General 15 July 2008