Aaron Bunch Journalist with Australian Associated Press | Collection of published work | + 61 484 008 119 | abunch@aap.com.au
NT opens first domestic violence court
An Alice Springs court has been converted into the Northern Territory’s first to specialise in domestic violence cases to better protect vulnerable survivors.
October 9, 2020
The Northern Territory is set to open its first specialised domestic violence court in a bid to better support vulnerable survivors as they navigate the justice system.
Alice Springs Local Court was given a $15 million refurbishment to ensure victims of domestic violence no longer endure the trauma of coming face-to-face with defendants as their matters go through the courts.
“Domestic and family violence rates in Central Australia are among the highest in the nation,” NT Attorney-General Selena Uibo said in a statement on Friday.
“It is imperative that the Northern Territory justice system provides a safe and supportive environment for victims and survivors of domestic and family violence.”
The facility has a dedicated judge in a bid to provide faster processing of family violence matters and separate entrances and waiting areas for the opposing parties.
The refurbishment will also give improved access to domestic violence support services, an NT government spokesman said.
“A dedicated domestic violence court has been a long time coming for central Australia,” Women’s Safety Services of Central Australia chief executive Larissa Ellis said.
“The new facilities will provide a significant improvement in the court experience for survivors and victims of family violence, and hopefully empower more victims to follow matters through the courts.”