The state government is funding an additional $23.1 million to provide greater flexibility in court and justice processes and improve the safety of family violence victims.
Following a successful pilot at the Frankston Magistrates’ Court, the state government is providing an additional $23.1 million to expand the specialist family violence legal services model, which focuses on pre-court legal advice to resolve family violence intervention order matters prior to the court listing day. As well as supporting the safety of victim survivors, this strategy is expected to significantly shorten court lists.
To further reduce the need for face-to-face hearings, additional funding will be provided to audio-visual technology support staff in the Magistrates’ Court, Children’s Court and VCAT.
(Source: Premiers Media Release, 15.12.20)