Supreme Court of Victoria

Architect: A.L. Smith and A.E. Johnson 1884

City of Melbourne | C42

Building Description

Take in the sights and sounds of one of Melbourne’s most historically significant buildings, and find out all about the current day workings of the highest court in Victoria. Established by an Act of Parliament in 1852, the Supreme Court of Victoria has occupied its current home since 1884. The courthouse was built over 10 years during the gold rush and at once became a landmark on Melbourne’s western skyline. It is a fine example of the classical Renaissance Revival style on a grand and imposing scale. Elaborate plaster ceilings, intricately carved wood panelling and marvellously fitted joinery remain today, as does much of the original furniture and fixtures. Explore the magnificent freestanding library, Victoria’s preeminent law library, in continual operation here since the 1880s. A number of criminal and civil courtrooms will also be open including the beautifully restored courtroom 4 – where the first sitting was held in 1884 and where many of the state’s murder, manslaughter and serious criminal trials are heard today.

What's On

Criminal and civil courtrooms will be open for self-guided tours including the beautifully restored courtroom 4 – where the first sitting was held in 1884 and many of the state’s murder, manslaughter and serious criminal trials are heard today.

Location