The Queensland Law Society (QLS) has welcomed today’s announcement of a $5 million upgrade to the Atherton Courthouse.
Attorney-General and Minister for Justice Deb Frecklington said the refurbishment would deliver a series of safety and accessibility improvements for court users in far north Queensland.
The project will include:
- upgrades to the vulnerable witness room
- improvements to the Domestic and Family Violence safe room
- a registry refurbishment
- enhanced security measures
- a new bar table and public gallery seating
- air-conditioning and lighting replacements
QLS President Peter Jolly said the Society supported investment that strengthened the safety and functioning Queensland’s Magistrates Courts.
“These upgrades will ensure the Atherton courthouse remains safe and functional for the Far North Queensland community,” he said.
“Improved facilities like this will help victim-survivors feel safer and more supported when seeking justice, at time when they are extremely vulnerable,” he said.
Mr Jolly said the QLS’s Call to Parties statement ahead of the 2024 State Election urged all political parties to commit to upgrading Magistrates Court infrastructure across the state.
Registry services will continue from a temporary location during construction, with details to be announced in the coming weeks.
The courthouse upgrade is expected to be completed in early 2027.
