Work on major security improvements at Maroochydore Courthouse to better safeguard victim-survivors of domestic and family violence is set to begin soon.
The State Government this week announced the $5 million project, funded by the Domestic and Family Violence Courthouse Improvement Program, would be completed by mid-2026.
Works include a new safe room with direct access to a courtroom to provide vulnerable witnesses with private, secure spaces to prepare and attend proceedings.
The project also includes a security upgrade at the court’s main entry, along with a refurbishment of the court registry to accommodate additional staff.
Sunshine Coast Law Association President Mala Heffernan said the improvements would be an important step toward supporting victims-survivors and ensuring the courthouse meets the needs of the growing region.
“Domestic and family violence matters require environments that prioritise privacy, security and dignity,” she said.
“The planned works will help create a safer and more accessible experience for all court users, while also supporting the judiciary and legal practitioners to administer justice efficiently.
“We look forward to seeing these upgrades delivered and to the positive impact they will have on our local community.”
Queensland Law Society President Genevieve Dee said the Society was pleased the State Government had delivered on its commitment to upgrade court facilities across Queensland.
Ahead of the 2024 State Election, the QLS Call to Parties advocacy statement urged all political parties to commit to upgrading infrastructure across Magistrates Courts.
“This included specific requests to boost security and ensuring safe entry and exit points for aggrieved parties in domestic and family violence matters,” she said.
“We commend the State Government for delivering this project at Maroochydore, which will greatly improve the court experience of victims of domestic and family violence.”
The State Government’s announcement detailed that between June 2024 and 2025, the Maroochydore Magistrate’s Court dealt with 787 applications for domestic violence orders and 1410 charges of contravening a domestic violence order.
Under the $18.8 million DFV Courthouse Improvement Program, upgrades to the Ipswich and Caboolture courthouses have been completed, while projects at Brisbane, Cairns, Mackay, Rockhampton, and Toowoomba courthouses continue to be delivered.
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