Operational update - In-person hearings and transitional COVID measures

The Notice to Profession sets out the broad parameters for in-person and remote hearings.

CovidSafe measures

Everyone attending the indoor public areas of the Court is asked to wear a mask. In particular, and subject to the exemptions, everyone working indoors in a publicly accessible space in a court is required to wear a mask under pandemic orders. This includes barristers, solicitors, staff and others attending as part of their work.

The Court asks that those attending court are vigilant about wearing masks correctly and at all appropriate times, particularly where physical distancing is not possible.

Physical distancing is being maintained where possible, but conventional courtroom and jury room arrangements for jury trials are in place.

All those attending Court locations are strongly encouraged to be vaccinated including booster doses where eligible.

Rapid antigen testing is part of COVIDSafe arrangements for in-person hearings. Arrangements will be communicated to the parties by Registry or Chambers in advance. Parties will be asked to identify those who will be attending an in-person hearing to enable those arrangements to be made.

If you

• Have COVID-19 (and are therefore subject to a requirement to isolate);
• Feel unwell or have symptoms of COVID-19, however mild

do not attend at Court and notify the Registry by calling the Prothonotary on 03 8600 2023 or emailing cebgubabgnel@fhcpbheg.ivp.tbi.nhua.vog.civ.truocpus@yratonohtorp .

If you are a close contact and you intend to attend at Court you are asked to notify the Court, which is a work premises in accordance with pandemic orders. This can be done by contacting the relevant chambers. The exemption from the requirement of close contacts to self-quarantine is dependent on you undertaking the required rapid antigen testing and returning negative results. Close contacts attending court are asked to undertake a rapid antigen test each morning before attending court and confirm their negative result.

General building access

Public entrances remain open. However, the Court is seeking to minimise in-person attendance in courtrooms where possible. Those unconnected with proceedings wishing to view proceedings are asked to make enquiries about remote viewing options. Those connected with the proceeding and media are also encouraged to view proceedings remotely and to notify the Court where they wish to attend so further instructions can be provided. The media team remain the contact point for media access.

QR check-in is not required at the security screening area.

Registry access

The Supreme Court Registry and Probate Office remain operational and encourage appointments for those needing to attend in person. Please telephone the Registry Services team or the Probate Office to discuss alternatives to in-person attendance or to make an appointment. The Registry Services team and Probate Office can be contacted on 8600 2000.

Library access

The Law Library Victoria is open. Read about opening hours and online access.