Courts in the Australian state of Victoria, where Melbourne is located, are considering holding hearings via video in response to the coronavirus pandemic.
“As the situation around coronavirus disease (COVID-19) rapidly evolves, Victoria’s courts and the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) are looking at ways we can adapt how we work to reduce its spread,” Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Victoria and Chair of the Courts Council, Anne Ferguson, said in a statement.
Ferguson said the courts were considering increasing the capacity for video conferencing and hearings.
Additionally, it is looking at other options, including staggering court times to prevent morning crowds at entrance points and managing some matters without in-court appearances.
“We will continue to update the legal sector, parties involved and the community where changes occur and thank all court users and staff for their patience and understanding at this unprecedented time,” Ferguson said in a statement.
Victoria is located in southeastern Australia. It is the country’s most densely populated state.
At the time of publication, there were 377 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Australia. Three deaths have been reported.
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