As part of the 2020-21 Budget, the Morrison Government is providing $2.3 million for the Federal Circuit Court (FCC) in Rockhampton to relocate to improved facilities, in a much-needed move that will help the Court maintain its presence in the Central Queensland region and allow it to continue to serve local families.
This measure will provide one-off capital funding in 2020-21 to relocate the Rockhampton registry of the FCC to the Old District Court situated in the CBD. Importantly, it will also allow relevant refurbishment and construction works to be undertaken to ensure that the new premises is fit for purpose.
The Rockhampton Registry was previously co-located with the Queensland State Courts in the Rockhampton Courthouse, with the resident FCC Judge and her staff occupying chambers and provided with access to a courtroom.
Following the appointment by the Queensland Government of an additional magistrate in 2018, the FCC has been relying on alternative short-term accommodation arrangements.
Federal Member for Capricornia Michelle Landry said the funding will go a long way to ensuring that Rockhampton has appropriate judicial representation.
“The improved facilities will allow the Federal Circuit Court to continue to fulfill its vital role in serving our local community.
“Back in 2015 I fought hard to get a Federal Court Circuit judge based permanently in Rockhampton, so Central Queensland families would no longer need to travel to Brisbane or Townsville to settle family or custody disputes.
“This announcement is another demonstration of the Morrison Government’s ongoing commitment to build the infrastructure that regional, rural and remote communities across Australia need and deserve”, Ms Landry said.
