The Bendigo Law Court Development is moving closer to giving the community the safe, modern and inclusive facilities they need – while creating hundreds of local jobs and reflecting the region’s rich history.
Representing the Attorney-General, Jaclyn Symes, the Member for Bendigo East Jacinta Allan and Member for Bendigo West Maree Edwards visited the site today to inspect progress on works and unveil the design of the future court.
The court design draws on the cultural imagery and knowledge of the Dja Dja Wurrung, Bendigo’s Traditional Owners. Local artist Racquel Kerr’s four-storey high representation of wedge-tailed eagle Bunjil, the creator being, will feature on the façade, while a paved courtyard symbolising a smoking ceremony will greet court users.
The development is putting local workers and businesses first – creating 390 new jobs as part of the Andrews Labor Government’s $152.4 million investment to transform central Bendigo.
The project will completely rebuild and expand the Bendigo Law Courts, delivering the latest technology and infrastructure to enable remote hearings, display of digital evidence, video conferencing and livestreaming.
The new court will open in early 2023 and will be the first in Victoria to deliver the full range of specialist court services – Koori Court, Specialist Family Violence Court, Drug Court and Mental Health Assessment and Referral Court.
Capacity will be boosted to support the expanded number of courtrooms, jurisdictions and services operating from the future court – ensuring it responds to and meets the needs of the local community.
It is also designed for zero net carbon emissions – featuring a range of environmentally friendly and sustainable initiatives to reduce energy use, water consumption and waste management.
The new court complex will be used by the Magistrates’ Court, Children’s Court and VCAT as well as the Supreme Court, County Court and Federal Circuit Court on a circuit basis.
Quote attributable to Attorney-General Jaclyn Symes
“This represents a new chapter for Bendigo – we’re building the safe, modern and inclusive facilities this region deserves, and creating the hundreds of local jobs that go with it.”
Quote attributable to Member for Bendigo East Jacinta Allan
“We look forward to reflecting upon and celebrating the proud culture of the Dja Dja Wurrung every time we visit the new precinct, with its design providing a welcoming environment for all court users.”
Quote attributable to Member for Bendigo West Maree Edwards
“The local community has been deeply involved in the design and development of this project – ensuring the future court will meet the needs of all Bendigo and Loddon Mallee residents.”
Reviewed 22 April 2021