Werribee Magistrates Court

The refurbishment of the Werribee Magistrates’ Court provides new public and staff facilities together with upgrades to the building to accord with current accessibility and safety standards.

The architectural language relates to the 1970’s aesthetic of the original building with bamboo finishes and an abstracted image of Lady Justice on the public stair window. The design reinforces the sobriety, firmness and importance that public courts need to reflect as institutions for justice, whilst also providing amenity to make the user experience as safe and comfortable as possible.

Public area upgrades include a new compliant lift, stair upgrade, amenities refurbishment and new external windows into interview and legal aid spaces.  Public areas were also provided with improved security and vehicular access allowing for custodial sentencing to occur at the court.  Back of house upgrades include additional meeting space, a new staff kitchen, informal staff space, a new print area and amenities.

All works were completed while the court remained in full operation, requiring meticulous stage planning through the construction phase