The Aboriginal Justice Initiatives Unit was established by Alberta Justice in June 1993 in response to recommendations made in the Task Force on the Criminal Justice System and Its Impact on Indian and Metis People of Alberta (Cawsey Report).

The Aboriginal Justice Initiatives Unit provides corporate support and advice to Alberta Solicitor General and Public Security and Alberta Justice divisions concerning Aboriginal justice issues. The director is a member of the executive management teams and the business and strategic planning committees of both departments, and represents the departments on a number of inter-departmental and inter-governmental committees and initiatives.

In support of the principles outlined in Alberta's Aboriginal Policy Framework, the Aboriginal Justice Initiatives Unit works with Aboriginal communities and organizations in developing justice initiatives that promote safe communities and respect for the law. It also coordinates Aboriginal justice initiatives for both departments. Examples of Solicitor General Aboriginal initiatives include First Nations policing, victim services, crime prevention initiatives, youth justice committees, and community corrections programs. Examples of Alberta Justice Aboriginal initiatives include First Nations’ court initiatives, community-based prosecution initiatives, cultural training, as well as Aboriginal family and criminal courtworker programs.

More detailed information on these initiatives can be found in the Annual Summary of Aboriginal Justice Programs and Initiatives 2006.