Mackay, Toowoomba, Rockhampton, Maroochydore receiving upgrades to DV, family violence court safe rooms

Safe spaces for victims of domestic violence in regional Queensland are receiving an upgrade as funding is committed to improve security and comfort.

Attorney-General Deborah Frecklington announced $6m for the Mackay court house. Photo: Fergus Gregg

The state government is rolling out upgrades to family and domestic violence courts across Mackay, Toowoomba, Rockhampton and Maroochydore.

A Mackay courthouse safe room will be getting a glow up to provide victims of domestic or family violence visiting court a safe space.

Mackay MP and former police officer Nigel Dalton said giving evidence in court could be “very tense and difficult”.

“If you are in that situation and been a victim of a crime I can’t imagine how terrible it must be not really feeling safe, secure and ready to give that evidence in court,” Mr Dalton said.

“This room will give security, will give comfort to those victims of domestic and family violence in Mackay.”

Mr Dalton said as a police officer he found preparing to give evidence a difficult and tense time.

Attorney-General Deborah Frecklington said she was inspired after a tour to the family and domestic violence court on the Gold Coast.

“They provide a beautiful and comfortable place for people who are struggling with domestic violence while going through the justice system,” Ms Frecklington said.

“No one wants to turn up to the court in relation to a domestic violence incident … if you are there you should have the right to feel safe.”

The Mackay court house will receive $6m to upgrade it’s safe room. Picture: Queensland Government

The remaining $12.8 will be delivered to family and domestic violence courts in Toowoomba, Rockhampton and Maroochydore.

Mr Frecklington said planning was underway with the upgrades slated for completion at the end of 2026.

Also included in the recently announced state budget was $10m in funding to be delivered over five years for the mining coroners court in Mackay.

Minister for resources and mines Dale Last said “mining is Queensland’s biggest industry employing more than 81,000, 60 per cent of whom live in regions like Mackay and the Bowen Basin.” Picture: Liam Kidston

Ms Frecklington said the funding would ensure mining related incidents were dealt with “promptly” and improved victim advocacy.

“That investment is vital for the people of central and regional Queensland,” Mr Frecklington said.

The funding announcements followed an LNP commitment of $2m to expand the Queensland Minerals and Energy Academy.

The expansion will create hubs based at the Resources Centre of Excellence in Mackay and develop a pipeline for students to transition into the resources industry.