Mackay’s justice precinct is set for a significant transformation, with a $6 million funding injection from the Queensland Government to upgrade the region’s courthouse—placing victim safety and frontline justice services firmly back on the agenda.
The funding forms part of an $18.8 million boost to the state’s Domestic and Family Violence Courthouse Improvement Program, announced in the 2025–26 Budget. The additional investment lifts total funding for the program to nearly $68 million and ensures long-overdue infrastructure improvements in regional centres like Mackay can proceed.
Locally, the upgrades will deliver a new purpose-built safe room offering vulnerable witnesses secure and direct access to the courtroom. The courthouse entry will also be reconfigured to enhance security, and the registry refurbished to support increased staffing and improved service delivery.
Attorney-General and Minister for Justice and Minister for Integrity Deb Frecklington said the upgrades were part of a broader commitment to delivering a justice system that places the safety of victims and community outcomes at its core.
“The Queensland Government promised Queenslanders we would deliver a justice system that prioritised the rights of victims and makes our community safer and I’m very proud this important upgrade program has been saved,” Ms Frecklington said.
“These critical upgrades will ensure victims of domestic and family violence are supported as they navigate the court process, helping deliver faster and safer access to justice, while ensuring offenders are held to account.”
The investment aligns with the government’s $5.2 billion Making Our Community Safer Plan, which forms part of the broader 2025–26 Budget agenda to provide stronger laws, more police, better-resourced courts, and strengthened support for the prevention of domestic and family violence.
Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton said the investment sent a strong message to survivors that their needs were no longer an afterthought.
“It is our responsibility to ensure that every person who walks through the courthouse doors seeking protection feels safe from the moment they arrive,” Mr Dalton said.
“For survivors of domestic and family violence, facing court can be one of the most intimidating steps in their journey.
“This new safe room will offer them security, privacy, and a sense of control when they need it most.”
Member for Mirani Glen Kelly welcomed the renewed focus on safety and dignity for victims navigating the court system.
“These upgrades provide more security and comfort for victims of domestic and family violence in our region.”
Designs for the Mackay Courthouse upgrade are currently underway, with construction due to begin in mid-2026 and completion expected in early 2027. The improvements are expected to enhance both safety and efficiency, delivering lasting benefits for victims, court users, and justice staff alike.
Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton and Attorney-General Deb Frecklington outside Mackay Courthouse, following the announcement of $6 million in state funding to improve safety and support for domestic and family violence victims
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