The Northern Territory’s first specialised domestic violence court will officially open in Alice Springs, to better support vulnerable survivors as they navigate the justice system.
The Territory Government has invested $15 million in a significant refurbishment of the Alice Springs Local Court, so victims of domestic violence no longer have to come face-to-face with perpetrators as their matters proceed through the courts.
The new facilities provide a dedicated court with a dedicated judge, Judge Meredith Day Huntingford, to hear family violence matters and facilitate a faster and more specialised family violence justice process.
The refurbishment also provides greater accessibility to domestic violence support services for victims.
Among the additions to the court that will facilitate a less traumatic court experience for victims are a separate entrance and waiting areas, and a court room where the victim cannot see or be seen by the defendant.
Source: NT Government