New model for court recording and transcription in Queensland

The Palaszczuk Government is moving ahead with a new model for the provision of court recording and transcription services in Queensland.

Attorney-General and Minister for Justice Yvette D’Ath said the recording of proceedings in the State’s courts and tribunals, and provision of timely and accurate transcripts, are vital to the effective operation of our justice system.

“The Department of Justice and Attorney-General (DJAG) has completed an extensive review of the current services for recording and transcription of court and tribunal proceedings, and how these services can feasibly be delivered in the future,” she said.

“Following comprehensive analysis, the review identified a new service delivery model to ensure the quality and timeliness of court transcripts in Queensland, while providing the best overall value for money.

“Transcription services will continue to be outsourced under the new model, and DJAG will provide and manage the courtroom recording equipment and be responsible for recording the majority of court proceedings.

“DJAG will carry out procurement and implementation activities over the next two-and-a-half years to implement the new service delivery model.”

Mrs D’Ath said the current provider of court recording and transcription services would continue to deliver services under the current arrangements.

“The end of the current contract in March 2021 will provide an opportunity to review the State’s recording and transcription needs, and to put those needs to the market,” she said.

“Queensland courts and tribunals operate across multiple jurisdictions in a complex and decentralised environment, so it is important to ensure that new arrangements are meeting our particular recording and transcription needs.

“The new procurement processes will provide the opportunity to explore innovative ideas and new developments in technology for Queensland’s recording and transcription system.”

Mrs D’Ath said an extensive review of the current fee structure would be undertaken in 2019, and the price of transcripts under the future model would be finalised after the procurement of transcription services had been completed.

“The project is also working towards addressing the relevant recommendations of the 2015 Queensland Audit Office review,” Mrs D’Ath said.

“In 2015, I asked the Queensland Audit Office (QAO) to consider the quality, timeliness and cost of transcripts under the outsourced service.”

The QAO made a number of recommendations regarding future service delivery needs, including that DJAG evaluate feasible alternative service delivery options to determine the best value for money option in terms of cost, timeliness and quality, and develops a strategy and plan to progress to the best value for money option at the end of the current contract.

It is expected the new model for court recording and transcription will be in place from March 1, 2021.

ENDS

Media contact:

Emma McBryde 0447 155 332