Government Advances Courts (Remote Participation) Amendment Bill

“Our courts are under significant pressure, and delays in justice can have a profound impact on all participants, especially victims,” McKee said.

Minister for Courts Nicole McKee has highlighted the Coalition Government's progress towards improving court performance and access to justice through the use of Audio Visual (AV) technology. The second reading of the Courts (Remote Participation) Amendment Bill brings the Government closer to fulfilling its commitment to modernizing court procedures.

"Our courts are under significant pressure, and delays in justice can have a profound impact on all participants, especially victims," McKee said. The Bill aims to address these issues by expanding options for remote participation in court proceedings.

Key changes proposed by the Bill include:

Remote Observation for Victims: Victims will have the option to observe criminal trials and sentencing remotely, provided suitable technology is available and the court deems it appropriate.

Increased Use of Audio Links: The Bill allows for the use of audio links, such as telephone conference calls, to facilitate remote participation for various court proceedings. This change is expected to broaden participation options for lawyers, Corrections, probation staff, and others involved in court processes.

Permanent Remote Participation: The Bill makes permanent a temporary measure introduced during the pandemic, which affirmed that remote participation in criminal proceedings and remote observation by the media and public align with the principle of open justice.

The Justice Select Committee, after reviewing submissions, supported the Bill without amendments. McKee expressed gratitude to the Committee for their support and emphasized the importance of these reforms in enhancing access to justice.