A new Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) has opened in Oakleigh, one of several new VCAT locations earmarked for metropolitan Melbourne.
Attorney-General Jill Hennessy (pictured, centre) launched VCAT’s new venue in Oakleigh, following works to transform the existing two-level building on the site into a modern fit-for-purpose facility.
“Oakleigh is the first of several new VCAT locations for metropolitan Melbourne, with venues also earmarked for Frankston and the northern metropolitan area to be delivered by 2021,” Ms Hennessy said.
“The purpose-designed Oakleigh venue will allow VCAT to handle more cases, with enhanced digital technologies enabling more efficient hearings,” she said.
“People coming to VCAT in Oakleigh to resolve civil issues – primarily about consumer disputes, renting, and guardianship – will no longer have to attend a criminal court building.”
Ms Hennessy said the new design was accessible, less formal than a criminal court, and had spaces that could be used flexibly for private discussions, mediations and hearings.
“Space is also available for support services such as duty lawyers, to better help people who need assistance attending VCAT,” she said.
Ms Hennessy said the establishment of new metropolitan venues would free up space in Magistrates’ Court buildings to accommodate specialist family violence courts – a key recommendation of the Royal Commission into Family Violence.