The Northern Territory's first specialised domestic violence court has opened in Alice Springs to improve the court experience for survivors of family and domestic violence.
The court room design is intended to keep survivors safe by removing face-to-face contact with accused abusers.
The court, presided over by Judge Meredith Day Huntingford, is the result of a $15 million renovation to Alice Springs local courts.
"It's important that victims aren't retraumatised, or even worse, threatened or intimidated while they are using the facilities," Judge Huntingford said.
"Its important as well that victims feel they can participate in the justice system.
"I'm not suggesting that a court alone can solve the problem of domestic violence, but we certainly need to play a part."
Attorney General Selena Uibo said domestic and family violence rates in Central Australia were among the highest in the nation.
"It is imperative that the Northern Territory justice system provides a safe and supportive environment for victims and survivors of domestic and family violence to enable the courts to hold perpetrators to account," she said.
Specialised design
The court room features a number of key adaptations that are designed to keep survivors feeling safe during proceedings.
The room can be reached via a separate street entrance and waiting area with its own security.
The room has also been designed so the defendant cannot see the accused.
"There's a screened area up the back for those who are victims or alleged victims. They can utilise that area to give evidence or view the proceedings from there without being required to mix with other people who might be in the court," said Judge Huntingford.
With the press of a button, a clear window becomes opaque, giving the room flexiblility to accommodate different circumstances.
Special list
The court is also where a new, rehabilitation-focused domestic violence list is heard, making it what Judge Huntingford calls "a therapeutic court".
Defendants who intend to plead guilty to domestic violence charges and want to access rehabilitation can apply to join the list, which allows them access to men's behavioural change programs.
"[The list is] for those who want to not only take responsibility but also want to engage in rehabilitation and make some changes that mean they want to stop using violence," Judge Huntingford said.
"The benefits are obvious — for the person who has been using violence, and for the members of their family."
The application process for the special list is rigorous and assesses first and foremost the safety of the survivor.
Not every matter heard in the court will be part of this list.
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