The Koori Court within Wyndham Law Courts is part of a broader suite of specialist courts planned (e.g. Family Violence Court, Assessment & Referral Court) to come into operation in stages, with the Koori Court expected to be implemented from early 2027. The facility will include a dedicated Koori courtroom, and associated spaces such as rooms for Elders and Respected Persons, to ensure culturally safe processes and support.
The Koori Court in Victoria provides an alternative criminal justice pathway for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander adults (and in parallel for youth via Children’s Koori Court) who plead guilty, excluding some offences. It emphasises cultural participation, having Elders or respected community members provide cultural advice. This approach aims to reduce recidivism, enhance community connection, and ensure that the justice system considers the cultural background and needs of Koori people.
Design and Cultural Significance
The Wyndham Law Courts have been designed with strong cultural engagement and First Nations collaboration at their heart. Led by Indigenous Architect Jefa Greenaway, the building’s design involved consultation workshops with Traditional Owners, the Bunurong Land Council Aboriginal Corporation (BLCAC), and the local Koori community. This collaborative approach ensures the courts reflect and respect First Nations culture, history, and traditions throughout the facility. Traditional Owner language is embedded in 23 locations, including the service road ‘tarrang 9’ Way connecting the Wyndham Law Courts with the Werribee Police Complex.
A dedicated Koori Courtroom for the Magistrates’ and Children’s Courts includes a private outdoor terrace with repurposed timber from the site, artwork by Traditional Owner artists Aunty Fiona Clarke and Adam Magennis, a smoke extraction system to support cultural ceremonies, a hidden dock for persons in custody, and a dedicated Elders and Respected Person’s room featuring artwork by Stacey Edwards. Other First Nations-inspired spaces include VCAT Koori Hearing and Mediation rooms, a Specialist Family Violence Courtroom, and a Remote Witness facility, each featuring culturally significant wood-burning and artwork by respected artists such as Tommy Day, Maryanne Morrison, and Adam Magennis.
First Nations artists
Children’s Court areas are enriched with interactive and artistic features, including an interactive digital wall co-created by Dr Betty Sargeant and Traditional Owner Artist Jarra Steel, as well as murals, decals, and acoustic panels by Kobi Sainty. A landmark entry sculpture by Adam Magennis and First Nations designs by Kylie Armstrong enhance the building’s public areas, while Indigenous landscaping led by Wamarra and BLCAC Rangers connects the courts to Country and provides welcoming outdoor gathering spaces, including a ceremonial firepit with artwork by Aunty Fiona Clarke.
Throughout staff and judicial areas, The Torch has contributed First Nations artwork, while Safe Wait features artwork by Peggy Dirrmingali Patrick, OAM. These design elements collectively create a courthouse environment that celebrates culture, acknowledges Country, and provides a welcoming, inclusive, and culturally safe space for all members of the Wyndham community.
