We pay our respects to the Wurundjeri People of the Kulin Nation. Always was. Always will be.
Artwork: Child’s Wonder by Amanda Wright
About Aboriginal Hearing Day
If you are Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander you can choose to have your matter listed to be heard on our Aboriginal Hearing Day.
We offer this day out of respect for First Nations people, ensuring the presence of the right services to support the occasion..
You can decide to have your matter heard as part of the general list, rather than Aboriginal Hearing Day. Your lawyer can discuss the option with you.
When to arrive
Please arrive for your hearing at 9.00am and check in with Registry on the first floor.
It’s important that you attend your hearing.
If you cannot attend your hearing call Registry as a matter of urgency on 9087 5739.
Failure to attend may result in a warrant being issued for your arrest, or your matter may be heard and determined without you.
Supporting you
Our Koori Justice Worker can support you and your family, and you'll find other friendly, professional and supportive people to help you.
We offer many support options including:
- Help to find other services
- Help to sort through issues
- Support if you’re on a community corrections order
- Emotional support
We also will have a number of different services presents on the day, including health and legal services. While any member of our team can put you in touch with the right person, our Koori Justice Officer can also support you to access additional services. All support options are free and confidential.
Legal assistance
Duty lawyers are lawyers who are on ‘duty’ at courts and tribunals across Victoria to help people who do not have their own lawyer.
If you don’t have a lawyer on the day of your hearing, a duty lawyer will discuss your needs and work out what is best for you.
You can also get legal assistance by contacting the following services:
- Victorian Aboriginal Legal Service (External link) (External link) Free Call 1800 064 865
- Victoria Legal Aid (External link) (External link) 1300 792 387
- Fitzroy Legal Service (External link) (External link) 9419 3744.
Family and friends
We know that waiting for your matter to be heard can be tiring and stressful so you are welcome to your family and friends are welcome to come to court with you.
Making the day go by
There is a dedicated menu of free meals for people attending court for Aboriginal Hearing Day.
You'll find phone chargers on the ground floor. There is also a welcome place to gather on the on the balcony off our court floor alongside friends and community.