A major upgrade at the Brisbane Magistrates Court will improve access for domestic and family violence victim survivors, the Queensland Law Society said.
The upgrades announced today include $8.4 million under the Domestic and Family Violence Courthouse Improvement program that will provide for a new courtroom, a new secondary safe room, refurbishment of the existing safe room, and a new vulnerable witness space with video-conferencing facilities, designed to provide victim-survivors with a private and secure area to provide evidence.
Other works include two new courtrooms, registry refurbishment, a new holding cell and secure dock, security, lighting, and improvements to fire safety, with the $26 million funding provided under the Minor Capital Works Program.
Last financial year, the Brisbane Magistrates Court dealt with 2088 applications for domestic violence orders and more than 4143 charges of contravening a domestic violence order.
QLS President Peter Jolly said the Society had long advocated for increased security measures for people involved in domestic and family violence matters.
“Upgrades like this ensure victim-survivors feel safer and more supported when seeking justice, giving them the help they need at time when they are extremely vulnerable,” he said.
He said the Society’s Call to Parties advocacy statement ahead of the 2024 State Election urged all political parties to prioritise upgrades to Magistrates Court infrastructure across Queensland.
Work on the Domestic and Family Violence safety enhancements is being prioritised and will start in coming weeks, while the broader capital works program will be completed over the next two years.
DFV upgrades to Ipswich and Caboolture courthouses are already complete, and projects at Toowoomba, Cairns, Maroochydore, Rockhampton and Mackay courthouses are underway.
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