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Victoria plans court updates with $20m funding boost
Attorney-General Jill Hennessy has confirmed Victorian courts stand to benefit from the state’s recent $2.7 billion building blitz.
Naomi Neilson
On Monday, Premier Daniel Andrews announced $2.7 billion would be invested in Victoria to create more construction jobs, for those out of work due to the coronavirus pandemic. Ms Hennessy confirmed courts are set to receive $20 million.
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The $20 million will go towards justice infrastructure upgrades right across the state, with $9.1 million dedicated to making the courts more accessible for people with disabilities.
Another $9.2 million will upgrade court security and safety, including making it much safer for people experiencing family violence.
“These investments will provide jobs and make our courts safer, more accessible and more sustainable into the future,” Ms Hennessy said.
Law Institute of Victoria president Sam Pandya said the improvements would help upgrade some of the historic court buildings to fit modern requirements.
“Local communities deserve access to local justice. But many of our court buildings need help to bring them up to modern standards of safety and accessibility,” Mr Pandya said.
“We are pleased the government is not only bringing old and historic courts up to date but also preparing for future impacts on the justice system.”
The remaining $2 million is dedicated to a critical infrastructure upgrade so the Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine can respond to natural disasters in the future.
“It is also prudent to provide additional funding to our Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine facilities to help [them prepare] for any future events such as this current COVID-19 pandemic,” Mr Pandya said.
