The Queensland Government is funding two new coroners and making a third temporary position permanent as it increases key justice services through the 2023-24 Budget, Attorney-General, Yvette D’Ath, announced today.
“The coroners court is a key component of our justice system; these three positions ensure it functions effectively and caters to growing demand as Queenslanders expect,” the Attorney-General and Minister for Justice and Minister for the Prevention of Domestic and Family Violence said.
Recent research revealed a 27% increase in reportable deaths handed to the coroner’s court over the past 10 years.
The Minister said $34 million dollars will be injected over the next four years into the Queensland Court operation ensuring the coroners court functions efficiently and effectively.
The new positions also aim to reduce backlogs, improve timeliness, and provide better delivery of trauma-informed services.
“The coroners court is a key component of our justice system; these three positions ensure it functions effectively and caters to growing demand as Queenslanders expect,” said Minister D’Ath.
“There were half a million views of the ‘findings and inquests’ page on the coroners court website last financial year and a 25% increase in media inquiries highlighting both the interest and importance of the role the court performs”.
“The new coroners positions ensure investigations and inquests can be completed in a timely manner and that families involved get the best possible service through what undoubtedly is a traumatic time for them.”
