The Bendigo Law Courts with the representation of creation being Bunjil on the building facia.
INDUSTRY VISIT TO BENDIGO LAW COURT 21/02/2024
The Administrator of Court Services Gerry Cronin took us on an interesting and informative walk-through of Bendigo’s newest public building. As the overseer of everything to do with the court precinct, other than the legal aspects, he explained that his job is to smooth the wheels so that the judiciary can operate effectively.
This new building, at a mere $152 million, replaces the 130-year-old heritage-listed building in our main CBD, which will have extensive community consultation to determine its future. As Gerry explained, the new court is a state of the art, purpose-built structure. The public areas are full of light, airy, high-ceilinged, comfortable, and welcoming. The most important change from the original courthouse is that defendants, accused, witnesses, jury members etc. can be kept separate at all times. Separate entrances, waiting rooms, and lifts ensure that no harassment or intimidation is possible. For the first time in 130 years!
This court is also one of the 15 Koori Courts in Victoria. This initiative combines the strength of the Magistrates Court and Victorian Law with culturally appropriate Elders and support groups. The defendants must be first nations, must plead guilty and then have their fate decided by the question “What will be your future?” The Magistrate, with the input of the Elders, makes the decision. The records show that through the connection to country, recidivism has dropped significantly.
We were also shown through the “Jury Courts” where County Court cases are heard. As Gerry states “These are hard, tough rooms” but still are designed to be as non-threatening as possible. This is where the Jury makes the decision, and the Judge sentences appropriately. Again, each court area has its own holding areas, entries, lifts etc. so that the various parties do not cross paths.
The Childrens Court is held 3 times per fortnight. A smaller, more intimate courtroom deals with 14–18-year-old offenders and has a large interactive monitor screen in its waiting area to distract the younger attendees. The Family Violence Court also sits here when required making use of the separate facilities described earlier. The depressing fact that family violence is 99.9% committed by men was mentioned.
A most interesting visit, and we thank Gerry Cronin very much for his time and efforts.
Chris Purton.
Bunjil from the level 4 waiting area outside of the Koori Court.
The old and the new. The new court complex (2023) towers over the old Specimen Cottage (No 178 1856, No 180 1861).
