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Finance Minister Clyde Caruana announced a comprehensive set of measures to strengthen Malta’s security, justice, and equality systems as part of the 2026 Budget.
Minister Caruana highlighted that Malta ranked the first among 142 countries in the World Justice Project Global Rule of Law Index, reflecting the country’s commitment to justice and good governance. He stated that the government will continue to build on this record through increased investment in law enforcement, judicial reform, and social protection.
€6 million police IT system and €9 Million for police stations
The Malta Police Force will begin implementing a €6 million project to replace its current IT system with a modernised platform. This upgrade aims to deliver a more efficient service for citizens and provide better data tools for officers.
In addition, new works will begin on police stations in Paola, Mosta, Sliema, Qormi, Victoria. The total investment in police properties will reach €9 million, improving both public accessibility and officers’ working conditions.
The police vehicle fleet will also continue to be modernised, including new vehicles for the Rapid Intervention Unit and district stations. This effort forms part of the government’s plan to strengthen community policing and phase out dependence on specialised units.
New cameras are being installed in strategic areas such as Paceville and Buġibba, and an electronic monitoring system will soon come into operation, further improving public safety and investigative efficiency.
€10 Million Armed Forces and Civil Protection Investment
Over €10 million will be invested in the Armed Forces of Malta (AFM) and the Civil Protection Department to modernise national safety and rescue capabilities.
The Civil Protection Department will purchase two new fire engines designed to tackle incidents involving electric vehicles, reflecting Malta’s growing electric mobility. Other investments include advanced aerial locater equipment, new vehicles for water transport, and upgraded tools for search and rescue operations, this will also intensify work at the fire station in Floriana and Gozo.
For the Armed Forces, next year will see the inauguration of the Air Wing Infrastructure Project, which marks a key milestone in the development of Malta’s air defence capacity. Minister Caruana said that by 2028, the AFM will have a new helicopter and aircraft, with the first investment exceeding €10 million being made next year to begin this work.
The AFM’s bomb disposal unit will also receive a new high-tech robot, while the army will regain a building in Ħal Far previously used for accommodating irregular migrants, restoring it for military use.
Justice Reform and Support for Victims
The 2026 Budget also includes new measures to modernise the justice system and strengthen support for vulnerable individuals. Minister Caruana said that the first phase of the Family Court Reform will be completed next year, alongside the Media Reform, which is currently in public consultation.
Buildings recently acquired by the Courts Services Agency will be developed for the Commercial Court and the new Family Court, while restoration work continues on the building in Strada Stretta. The government will also continue implementing a digitalisation project across justice entities, co-financed through the EU’s Recovery and Resilience Programme.
At the Corradino Correctional Facility, further modernisation will continue next year following the renovation of several sections and the establishment of learning hubs. New family-friendly spaces will also be completed to make visits by relatives, especially children, more suitable and humane.
Minister Caruana announced a new initiative to support victims of domestic violence who require alternative accommodation while undergoing separation procedures. The scheme will provide safe and temporary shelter to ensure that no victim is left without support during a period of vulnerability.
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