The $34.4 million upgrade announced today includes $8.4 million under the Domestic and Family Violence Courthouse Improvement program to provide for:
- a new courtroom
- a new secondary safe room
- refurbishment of the existing safe room
- a new vulnerable witness space with video-conferencing facilities, designed to provide victim-survivors with a private and secure area to provide evidence.
Additionally, two new courtrooms, a refurbished registry, a new holding cell and secure dock, upgraded security and lighting, and improved fire safety measures will be delivered thanks to $26 million in funding under the Minor Capital Works Program.
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.
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.
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.
