MURRI COURT OPENS IN ROCKHAMPTON

The first of 13 Murri Courts formally launched in Rockhampton today, delivering on the Palaszczuk Government’s election commitment to reinstate diversionary court options for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders in Queensland.

Attorney-General and Minister for Justice Yvette D’Ath said Murri Courts are an important tool in diverting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander (ATSI) people from the criminal justice system, where they remain over-represented in Queensland.

“Murri Courts first began operation in 2002 in response to the disproportionate number of ATSI people who were incarcerated in Queensland jails but ceased their vital function after being axed by the previous LNP government in 2012,” Mrs D’Ath said.

“Born out of the passion of Elders, community justice groups and the dedication of magistrates, the court provided access to culturally-competent service providers and referral pathways to address the underlying causes of criminality.

“Murri Courts assist in diverting people from the criminal justice system.

“After the abolition of the Murri Court by the former LNP government, the Indigenous Sentencing List evolved out of necessity and has played a key part in helping to address ATSI justice issues. I want to thank the people who volunteered their time to continue the Murri Court mantle over this period.

“The new Murri Court model demonstrates what can be achieved when the courts, governments and local communities work together.”

Police Minister Bill Byrne said it was exciting for Queensland’s first reinstated Murri Court to be in his home city of Rockhampton.

“Murri Courts require offenders to work hard, to take responsibility for their offending and recognise the impact that their actions have on the wider community,” Mr Byrne said.

“Participants in Murri Court are encouraged to speak in “plain English” rather than legal jargon, and the magistrate speaks directly to the offender and takes advice from Elders and Respected Persons.”

Mrs D’Ath said Murri Courts increase community participation and confidence in the court process, refers offenders to support services and improves sentencing outcomes.

She said Murri Court is a Queensland Magistrates Court available to sentence eligible ATSI offenders who have pleaded guilty. It is presided over by a magistrate, and supported by local Elders or Respected Persons who provide cultural advice to the magistrate.

She said sitting allowances will be paid to Elders and Respected Persons who provide cultural advice to magistrates in Murri Courts to recognise their significant contribution to the process.

“This is a vital change to the way we administer criminal justice in Queensland and an important step to closing the gap in our community.”

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