Jobs and justice with Orange courthouse upgrade

Last published on 30 Oct 2020

The biggest construction project undertaken this century at the historic Orange Courthouse will provide justice facilities fit to serve the community now and for a generation to come.

Attorney General Mark Speakman, who officially opened the recently completed $2.2 million improvements today, said the project mixes the courthouse’s rich heritage with the best modern design has to offer.

“Orange Courthouse was constructed in 1883 while Australia was feeling the first rumblings for a new federation. The new extension looks great and it is wonderful to see flags flying high outside this beloved building,” Mr Speakman said.

“The works go way beyond the cosmetic, with the complex now boasting some of the best security and amenities of any court in regional NSW including new airport-style scanners.”

The main entrance to the building has been extended to accommodate the foyer’s security equipment and there is a new secure exit. The internal redesign has enabled a new Sheriff’s Office and search room to be added.

Victims and vulnerable witnesses can have some sanctuary in a domestic violence safe room and witness waiting room. The jury deliberation room and the registry have been upgraded along with the judge’s chambers and associate’s office.

Orange is among five regional NSW courthouses to receive significant upgrades following the appointment of full time District Court judges in these locations, including Judge Graham Turnbull SC who began sitting in Orange, Bathurst and Parkes in Februrary this year.

The upgrades brought together multiple projects planned for the courthouse and have enabled the full scope of works to be completed at once, minimising disruption to court sittings and delivering a better outcome to the community.

Central West Member of the Legislative Council Sam Farraway congratulated Dubbo-based David Payne Construction which delivered the upgrade.

“This project directly created jobs for more than 75 local tradespeople and provided a welcome economic boost for the the Central West region, as it deals with the financial impacts of the worst drought on record and the COVID-19 pandemic,” Mr Farraway said.

Orange Courthouse also benefited from an additional $155,000 of the NSW Government’s $9 million COVID-19 stimulus package fundung new carpets, painting of interiors and three new flagpoles.

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