Fears mount for victims of domestic violence ahead of WA court closures
Concerns are rising for victims of domestic violence in Western Australia as over 20 courthouses are set to close for three months due to security issues. Legal experts warn that these closures will create significant barriers to justice, particularly for Indigenous communities. The state government is reportedly working on solutions to address the situation.
- ▪More than 20 courthouses in regional Western Australia will close for three months starting June 1 due to a lack of police security.
- ▪Lawyers express concern that the closures will exacerbate barriers to justice for victims of domestic violence.
- ▪Data shows a 20 percent increase in domestic violence offenders in WA from the previous year.
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'A disgrace': Fears for domestic violence victims as WA court closures loomBy Gabrielle Becerra Mellet and Dunja KaragicABC South West WATopic:Domestic ViolenceWed 20 May 2026 at 9:16amWed 20 May 2026 at 9:16amWed 20 May 2026 at 9:16amThe court house in Margaret River is one of 26 impacted by the closures. (ABC South West WA: Chela Williams)In short:More than 20 courthouses in regional Western Australia will close for three months from June 1 due to a lack of police security.Lawyers are concerned the closures will create barriers to justice and inundate an already-stretched regional legal system.What's next?The state government says they are actively working on solutions to re-open the courthouses.abc.net.au/news/court-shutdown-concerns-for-domestic-violence/106696570Link copiedShareShare…
Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at ABC News (Australia).