Scale of fees update

From 3 August 2026, we are increasing fees paid to solicitors, barristers and other service providers in State and Commonwealth law matters.

We know growing costs are impacting our partners, and we are committed to increasing the fees we pay to legal aid providers when it is financially possible to do so. This fee increase will be funded from within Legal Aid Queensland’s existing budget.

The fee increases are as follows:

• All hourly rates for solicitors in State and Commonwealth law matters will be paid at $160 an hour.
• The hourly rate for counsel has been increased by 4.56% for State and Commonwealth law matters.
• Fixed fees or event fees for solicitors and barristers (conferences, mentions, preparation etc.) have also increased for State and Commonwealth law matters.
• Disbursements for items such as reports, giving evidence, service, travel, and accommodation have also increased by 4.56% and apply across State and Commonwealth matters.

The fee increase applies where the request for legal aid is approved on or after 3 August 2026. It does not apply retrospectively, and any grants issued before 3 August 2026 will be paid at the published rate at the time of issue.

We know lawyers in private practice play a vital role in delivering legal services to financially disadvantaged people across the state. Without your ongoing support, LAQ would simply not be able to meet the demand for legal services. Thank you for partnering with us to help meet Queensland’s legal needs together.

Full details of the increases are published in the Grants Handbook – Scale of Fees and are now available online from 3 August 2026.