A dedicated family violence court is now open in Geelong to give victim-survivors of family violence across the region better access to justice and support.
The Specialist Family Violence Court (SFVC), based out of the Geelong Magistrates’ Court, was officially opened on 23 January and will hear a variety of matters, including bail applications, criminal case pleas and family law parenting matters.
Attorney-General Sonya Kilkenny said the new court would support the wellbeing of people affected by family violence and promote greater accountability for perpetrators.
“The Geelong SFVC will provide invaluable support for victim-survivors and their loved ones whilst holding perpetrators to account,” she said.
“SFVCs are a safe, comfortable space for those affected by family violence to receive dedicated support as they navigate the court system, which we know can be a daunting experience.”
The facility features separate entry and exit points, along with four separate zones for the public, staff, judiciary, and those in custody, to minimise interactions between court users.
Member for Bellarine Alison Marchant said there had been a high demand for specialised family violence facilities in the Barwon South West Region.
“This SFVC will make a real difference for people in the Bellarine, giving victim-survivors a safer, more supportive place to seek justice close to home,” she said.
Geelong Magistrates’ Court heard more than 15,000 cases last year, which included 3478 family violence intervention orders.
Safe waiting areas, remote witness facilities, and private interview rooms have been included at Geelong Law Courts, along with child-friendly spaces for victim-survivors and their loved ones as they navigate the court system.
The state government provided more than $77 million to establish SFVCs across the state, which responds to a key recommendation of the Royal Commission into Family Violence.
More than $4 billion has been invested by the state government to strengthen the prevention and response to family violence across the state.
A further $172 million was invested in the last state budget to help keep women and children safe, hold perpetrators to account and support victim survivors through improved access to legal services, case management and therapeutic supports.
