Published Friday, 03 August, 2012 at 01:11 PM

Attorney-General and Minister for Justice
The Honourable Jarrod Bleijie

Court opening heralds a new era for state justice

Queensland’s new Brisbane Supreme Court and District Court has been officially opened today by Her Excellency the Governor General, Penelope Wensley.

Premier Campbell Newman said the opening of the Queen Elizabeth II Courts of Law marked a new beginning for the State’s judicial system.

“This landmark building sits in the heart of the city’s legal precinct flanked by the Brisbane Magistrates Court and Queensland Police Service headquarters,” he said.

“The $570 million building boasts 45 operational courtrooms, 13 more than the former courthouse, with separate wings for civil and criminal trials.

“These additional courtrooms will help service the State’s growing caseload with built-in capacity for future innovation in justice technology.

“The design includes separate access points for prisoners, judges, jurors, witnesses and members of the public to avoid inappropriate contact, particularly with defendants.

“Courtrooms can also display digital evidence, which will streamline court processes and reduce costs, delays and inconvenience.

“Brisbane is one of Australia’s most progressive capitals and it now has a courthouse to match.”

Attorney-General Jarrod Bleijie said the court system, like the monarchy had played an integral role in shaping Queensland over the past 150 years.

“It is only fitting we name this landmark building after a monarch whose devotion to public life throughout the Commonwealth is something to be admired,” Mr Bleijie said.

“The Queen Elizabeth II Courts of Law feature glass walls, high ceilings and timber floors, which is a radical departure from the existing precast concrete courthouse.

“Although, the former courthouse served the State well, it could not be upgraded without significant expense.

“A modern justice system faced with increasing demand for services requires a contemporary building with state-of-the-art technology.

“The new courthouse provides better facilities for victims of crime, witnesses, jurors, lawyers, judges and members of the public.

“I encourage all Queenslanders to visit the Queen Elizabeth II Courts of Law, which in addition to being architecturally impressive are a fitting flagship for the state’s justice system."

Mr Bleijie also thanked Chief Justice Paul de Jersey and the judiciary for their invaluable input throughout the design and construction process.

The Queen Elizabeth II Courts of Law building was designed by Architectus Brisbane in consultation with Guymer Bailey Architects and was built by Lend Lease.

Media contact: Lisa O’Donnell 0400 986 432