Safety Upgrades at Swan Hill Magistrates’ Court Underway

Upgrades have commenced at the Swan Hill Magistrates' Court to improve the safety of court users, especially those impacted by family violence.

“Court Services Victoria has worked closely with jurisdictions to finalise designs ensuring that the upgrades support service delivery while also creating a safer experience for vulnerable people attending court,” Brian Stevenson, Chief Operating Officer, Court Services Victoria.

“The upgrades aim to reduce opportunities for harm and intimidation by separating opposing parties when they are in court. This critical work delivers on key recommendations from the Royal Commission into Family Violence and I am extremely pleased that this work is now underway,” said Mr Stevenson.

The $145,000 upgrades include the creation of a separate waiting area and interview room, and the installation of a mobile visual screen in court.

The court will continue to sit throughout the building works, which are scheduled for completion in mid-2018.

The upgrades are part of the Victorian Government’s $6.22 million Safe and Secure Courts, Priority Asset Upgrades funded in the 2016/17 State Budget.