Wednesday, 20 December 2017

Residents across southern Gippsland will soon have access to safer and more secure court facilities in Korumburra and Wonthaggi with the roll out of new Court Security Officers under the Andrews Labor Government. This is on top of the recent announcement of a $375,000 building upgrade for the Korumburra Courthouse.

Member for Eastern Victoria Harriet Shing today announced security measures at these two courts will be improved with three Court Security Officers, to be deployed to the court on sitting days from Monday, 18 December in Korumburra and 22 December in Wonthaggi.

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 to improve public safety at Korumburra 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 upgrades will include a safe waiting area and interview room to separate opposing parties, and a mobile visual screen will also be installed in the court.

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

The Korumburra Magistrates’ Court will continue to operate during the building works.

Quotes attributable to Member for Eastern Victoria Harriet Shing:

“In addition to making the Korumburra Magistrates’ Court safer by increasing security measures and upgrading the building, the Court Security Officers will help to make both courts safer by providing protection and assistance specifically for vulnerable people, including those affected by family violence.”

“By delivering these safety upgrades and court Security Officers, we are also meeting key recommendations from the Royal Commission into Family Violence.”

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.”