Monday, 18 December 2017

Bairnsdale residents will soon have access to safer and more secure court facilities thanks to a $600,000 upgrade and the roll out of new Court Security Officers under the Andrews Labor Government.

Member for Eastern Victoria Harriet Shing today announced security measures will be improved with four Court Security Officers to be deployed to the court on sitting days from Monday, 18 December.

The new Court Security Officers will undertake entry screening and provide a roving security presence.

They will provide escort services for vulnerable people when required, including women and children who have been victims of family violence.

The new Court Security Officers will also allow Victoria Police, where they consider it appropriate, to re-deploy police officers currently providing court security to front-line duties.

Building works at the Bairnsdale courthouse are also scheduled to begin by mid-2018. The upgrades are part of the Labor Government’s $58.1 million investment in the state’s courts delivered in the Victorian Budget 2016/17.

The upgrade will include a safe waiting area and interview room, improved accessibility and updated public amenities. Mobile screens will also be installed in the courtroom to visually separate parties and the Registry area will be upgraded to improve safety.

The refurbishments will help to create a safer experience for those attending court, which delivers on key recommendations from the Royal Commission into Family Violence.

The Bairnsdale court will continue to operate during the building works.

The Bairnsdale courthouse is a multi-jurisdictional court, hearing matters before both the Magistrates’ and County Courts.

Quotes attributable to Member for Member for Eastern Victoria Harriet Shing:

“The new Court Security Officers will help to make the Bairnsdale court safer by providing escort services for vulnerable people, including those affected by family violence.”

“Our safety upgrades will deliver on key recommendations from the Royal Commission into Family Violence and will help to separate victims and their perpetrators at court.”

Quote attributable to Attorney-General Martin Pakula:

“The Andrews Labor Government is increasing security measures at courts across the state to help make them safer for the Victorian community.”