Family violence Melbourne: Specialist court opens at Moorabbin Magistrates’ Court Highett

A Specialist Family Violence Court has opened in Moorabbin, the first of three new Melbourne locations.

Melbourne’s first Specialist Family Violence Court has opened in Moorabbin. Picture: Generic

Melbourne’s first Specialist Family Violence Court has opened in Moorabbin.

The purpose-built facility at Moorabbin Magistrates’ Court Nepean Hwy features separate entrances for victims and safe waiting spaces and interview rooms.

Remote witness facilities, child-friendly spaces and culturally safe rooms also form part of the development.

The court is one of three operating across the state, alongside locations at Bendigo and Shepparton.

Two more metropolitan sites, Heidelberg and Frankston, are set to open next year.

The upgraded courts will be manned by a team of specially trained magistrates, operational staff and family violence practitioners.

Specialist magistrates will also have the power to mandate counselling, such as men’s behaviour changes programs, to promote women’s and children’s safety.

All staff will take part in ongoing family violence learning and development programs.

The project forms part of more than $2.9 billion invested by the State Government following recommendations made by the Royal Commission into Family Violence.

Victoria’s Attorney-General Jill Hennessy and Labor MP Nick Staikos officially opened the Moorabbin building on Wednesday.

“Dedicated courts across the state will ensure more Victorians affected by family violence can access justice safely and without fear or intimidation,” Ms Hennessy said.