New court complex for Shepparton

The 2014-15 Victorian State Budget will deliver a modern new court complex and facilities for Shepparton and the Hume region.

Deputy Premier Peter Ryan and Attorney-General Robert Clark joined Member for Shepparton Jeanette Powell in Shepparton today to make the announcement.

Mr Clark said the $73 million investment would provide a new court complex, additional court staff and an extra Magistrate in Shepparton.

“The Victorian Coalition Government is providing this funding for a new court building in Shepparton and increased staffing to meet the Hume region’s growing demand,” Mr Clark said.

“Once completed, there will be three Magistrates’ courtrooms and two further courtrooms for the Supreme and County Courts, with capacity for expansion to six courts in the future.

“The new facility will be built on existing land and an adjoining site, with court sittings able to continue during construction.

“The funding will enable the existing building to be replaced with a new, purpose-built multi-jurisdictional court complex, together with an additional Magistrate and court staff.”

Mr Ryan said the investment was essential to meet future the needs of the Hume region.

“This will be a fantastic, modern development for the city of Shepparton, creating more than 158 jobs during construction and 14 ongoing jobs when the new centre is built,” Mr Ryan said.

“The construction will aim to preference local contractors to ensure the economic benefit of the project delivers maximum returns for the Hume region.

“This is a fantastic design, which will be built for and built by the Shepparton and Hume communities, serving the public for decades to come.

“The Coalition Government is delivering for the Shepparton region. This new court complex follows the $22 million investment in SPC, the $16 million concessional loans package and business planning program, the $5 million Goulburn Valley Industry and Infrastructure Fund and our $2 million Fruit Industry Employment Program.”

Mrs Powell said she was proud to deliver the new court complex for her region.

“Labor failed to deliver this court complex for 11 years and we’ve been able to announce it within our first term of government,” Mrs Powell said.

“The much-needed Shepparton redevelopment, scheduled for completion in 2018, will provide secure and modern facilities for court users and staff.”

Mr Clark said the design of the planned building followed an extensive design process led by the Department of Justice and consultants GHD.