Colac residents will have access to safer and more secure court facilities thanks to a $330,000 upgrade and the roll out of new Court Security Officers under the Andrews Labor Government.
Member for Western Victoria, Gayle Tierney today announced three Court Security Officers will be deployed on court sitting days from today, Monday 18 December.
The new Court Security Officers will undertake entry screening and provide a roving security presence. They will also 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 court are also scheduled to begin by mid-2018. The refurbishment will include a safe waiting area and interview room. Mobile screening will also be installed to visually separate parties in the courtroom and the Registry area will be upgraded to improve safety.
The upgrades will help to create a safer experience for those attending court and delivers on key recommendations from the Royal Commission into Family Violence.
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 Colac Magistrates’ Court will continue to operate during the building works.
Quote attributable to Member for Western Victoria Gayle Tierney
“It is crucial that when vulnerable people, especially those caught up in family violence, attend court they can do so in a safe manner, free from threat or intimidation.”
“The Colac Magistrates’ Court was constructed 53 years ago and we’re upgrading the building and increasing security measures to make it safer for the community, including those affected by family violence.”
“These 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.”
Quotes 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.”