New Children’s Court facilities have been established at Level 9, William Cooper Justice Centre (WCJC). The facility has been designed with particular consideration to the needs of children, young people and their families in order to provide a therapeutic and culturally-welcoming environment.
In February 2021, the Court building at 436 Lonsdale Street was closed due to building safety issues. The closure displaced key services from the Children’s Court and Supreme Court who shared use of the building. The WCJC has been updated and equipped to help to address the closure of 436 Lonsdale Street.
The new space was designed based on principles including therapeutic engagement, flexibility and accessibility. The facility includes:
Three Courtrooms with integrated technology for hybrid and online hearings
Registry and staff workspaces
Interview and meeting rooms
Separate public waiting areas
Children’s waiting and play area.
The new court rooms and space will help address demand for Children’s Court services in Melbourne.
