The following update is from the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Victoria and Chair of Courts Council, Anne Ferguson, on behalf of the Victorian courts and Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT).
This news article may contain information that has since been updated or revised. To view current changes to Court operations related to COVID-19 visit the coronavirus information page.
The Victorian courts and VCAT will gradually adjust operations in line with the easing of restrictions in metropolitan Melbourne and regional Victoria from Friday, 11 June, 2021.
A mixture of in-person and remote hearings will continue in the courts.
Density limits will apply in court buildings other than spaces being used for jury trials, so remote hearings will play an ongoing and important role in continuing to hear matters.
Masks will be required to be worn in court buildings subject to exemptions.
New jury trials will resume in Melbourne from Friday, 11 June, 2021. Trials that had to be vacated during the restrictions will be re-listed as soon as possible.
“We are grateful for the support provided by the legal profession and the agencies who contribute to our ongoing operations and the administration of justice for all Victorians,” Chief Justice Ferguson said.
“We acknowledge the way in which all those who work with and in the Courts and VCAT adapt so quickly to changing circumstances to ensure hearings can continue for the benefit of the Victorian community.”
Please check the websites of each jurisdiction for jurisdiction-specific changes.