Victorian Bar Media Release - Victorian Bar welcomes focus on access to justice

Commonwealth Attorney-General Christian Porter has announced the creation of the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia, bringing together the two jurisdictions currently dealing with family law.

The proposal would also see appeals in family law matters heard in the Federal Court of Australia.

“While we are still studying the detail of the proposal, the Victorian Bar welcomes changes which improve access to justice, simplify procedures and reduce waiting times and costs,” said Dr Matt Collins QC, President of the Victorian Bar.

“Members of the public who are dealing with the Family Court and the Federal Circuit Court, particularly in relation to custody and access to children, are often experiencing the most difficult and emotional periods of their lives.

“Reforms that reduce the complexity, delay, cost and stress experienced by families are long overdue. The system must do better by these people,” said Dr Collins.