Tuesday, 20 June 2023

Ministers statements: Children’s Court

Jaclyn SYMES (Northern Victoria – Attorney-General, Minister for Emergency Services) (12:15): I would like to take the opportunity to update the house on two key milestones for Victoria’s Children’s Court. On Thursday I had the privilege to be in Shepparton joining members of the local community and members of the Children’s Court in marking the two-year anniversary of Marram-Ngala Ganbu. Over the last two years it has provided a hearing process that is not adversarial and allows more time for families to ask questions, participate in finding solutions and decision-making and then connect with relevant services. Marram-Ngala Ganbu delivers on the work of the Children’s Court in a way that is informal, culturally appropriate, flexible and welcoming for Aboriginal children and their families. From the way the courtroom is adorned with Aboriginal cultural items to the Koori magistrates and the amazing support staff, everything is designed so that Aboriginal people feel welcome, heard and empowered, and it ensures a fairer, more culturally appropriate experience that is leading to much better outcomes.

On Friday I attended the official opening of the Dandenong Children’s Court. The focus of this brand new court facility is solely on the needs and interests of vulnerable children and their families. That is why the court incorporates problem solving and collaborative and multidisciplinary practices tailored to the needs of young people. The physical design of the court is also tailored to these needs and ensures that there are separate facilities from adult offenders, with a separate entrance, waiting area and remote hearing facilities for vulnerable court users. The court also features a Koori Children’s Court, meaning that Aboriginal children and their families will be able to participate in the court proceedings in a culturally safe and respectful way.

I would also like to thank everyone involved in both the success of Marram-Ngala Ganbu and the work that has gone into launching the really important facility at Dandenong. I have no doubt that we will see great things from both of these things in Shepparton and Dandenong.