A major upgrade to the Cairns Courthouse is helping create a safer, more supportive environment for domestic and family violence (DFV) victim-survivors, with the first stage of a $19.3 million redevelopment now complete.
The milestone marks a significant step forward in the Crisafulli Government’s commitment to improving access to justice and putting victims first, as part of a statewide investment of nearly $68 million through the Domestic and Family Violence Courthouse Improvement Program.
The completed first stage of works has delivered a dedicated domestic and family violence courtroom, providing a purpose-built space for sensitive matters. The project has also included upgrades to an additional courtroom on level two, enhanced security screening at the courthouse entrance, and a refurbished registry featuring a dedicated DFV support area.
These improvements are designed to make attending court safer, more secure and less stressful for victim-survivors, their families and support people.
Further works are progressing on schedule and are expected to be completed in early 2027. These include a refurbished courtroom, new magistrates’ chambers and a dedicated DFV safe room that will provide additional privacy and protection for court users.
The importance of modern, fit-for-purpose facilities is highlighted by the significant number of DFV matters heard in Cairns each year.
During the last financial year, the Cairns Magistrates Court dealt with 1,050 domestic violence order applications and more than 3,000 charges relating to breaches of domestic violence orders.
In addition to the internal improvements, restoration work is also underway on the courthouse façade, helping preserve and enhance one of Cairns’ key public buildings. Those works are expected to be completed by mid-2027.
I’m proud to see the first stage of this important project complete, helping support DFV victim-survivors through one of the most difficult times in their lives. Attending court for a DFV matter can be incredibly traumatic, and these upgrades are designed to make the experience safer, more secure and less stressful for victim-survivors and those supporting them.
These improvements provide additional facilities and support services for people attending court in domestic and family violence matters, while also enhancing the functionality of the courthouse.
The Cairns project forms part of the wider Domestic and Family Violence Courthouse Improvement Program, which is delivering upgraded court facilities across Queensland.
Projects at Toowoomba, Ipswich and Caboolture courthouses have already been completed, while upgrades at Brisbane, Maroochydore, Rockhampton and Mackay continue to progress.
Once finished, the Cairns Courthouse upgrade will provide modern facilities that enhance safety, improve accessibility and better support victim-survivors navigating the justice system.
