No. 57

Security, building upgrades for Courts, Tribunals

The ACT’s courts and tribunals are set to undergo a major security upgrade in addition to other building improvements with the Attorney‑General Simon Corbell today announcing 2007-08 Budget funding of $6.73 million over four years to the courts precinct.

Capital funding of $1.32 million has been provided to improve security arrangements in the courts and tribunals precinct on Knowles Place off London Circuit in Civic. A further $629,000 ongoing operational funding has also been allocated for the improved security arrangements.

“The security of our judicial officers and people attending the court precinct is a key priority for the
ACT Government,” Mr Corbell said. “The administration of justice for the ACT community must be delivered in a safe and secure environment. This is why the ACT Government has allocated this funding to ensure adequate security measures are put in place at our courts and tribunals.”

The new security measures to be implemented include:
•	the installation of ‘airport style’ walk-through security and x-ray baggage machinery for both court buildings;
•	upgrading the current CCTV and monitoring equipment and software to include both court buildings;
•	monitoring of CCTV from a state-of-the-art purpose-built security room;
•	installing baggage screening facilities;
•	a new security contract, providing additional trained security staff across both court buildings;
•	secure parking and entry/egress to buildings by judicial officers and senior staff;
•	upgraded key management system; and
•	safer seating arrangements in the public waiting area.

As a result of the recommendations made by the Auditor-General in her 2005 Report on Courts Administration, $580,000 has been allocated to better integrate the Magistrates Court counter services with the rest of the registry and to make the foyer and counter services more user-friendly.  

The improvements will see:
•	a redesigned foyer and counter to better meet the needs of staff and court users;
•	an automated ticket management system;
•	improved signage for the public; and
•	more conferencing facilities.

“In addition the ACT Government has also allocated $2.033 million for the replacement of the 44‑year‑old leaking roof of the ACT Supreme Court building and upgrading of the air-conditioning system. The Supreme Court Building is a landmark public building in the ACT. The building was erected in 1963. Due to age, the copper roof is leaking and the air-conditioning units require an upgrade to meet acceptable operating requirements,” Mr Corbell said.