Remote Court Closures Raise Serious Concerns for Kimberley Families and Communities

While much public discussion has focused on the operational impacts of the court closures, our experience in the Fitzroy Valley tells us that the consequences are being felt much more broadly across women, children, families and communities.

For many Aboriginal people living in remote Communities, local courts are not simply places where legal matters are heard. They are an essential part of community safety, access to justice and protection.

Recent experiences emerging from our Communities have highlighted some of these impacts.

In one case, a young person from Fitzroy Crossing was transported to Broome under warrant, spent the night in custody and was later left without family support or transport home.

In another matter, a parent was taken into custody and transported to Broome, leaving a young child behind in the community until local people stepped in to provide care.

These experiences demonstrate that the impacts of court closures extend far beyond the individual involved. Families are disrupted, carers are separated from children, people miss work and cultural responsibilities, and Communities carry the burden.

The increased reliance on travel and remote appearances also raises important questions about language, interpretation, cultural safety and meaningful participation in legal proceedings. Many Kimberley residents speak English as a second, third or fourth language, and access to interpreters and support services remains inconsistent.

Marninwarntikura believes that all Western Australians should have equitable access to justice, regardless of where they live.

As CEO Emily Carter AM said:

"Justice should not depend on your postcode."

The current situation has also highlighted broader questions about Closing the Gap commitments, access to justice and the experiences of Aboriginal people within the legal system.

We welcome ongoing discussions with Kimberley organisations, legal services and Community-controlled organisations about how we can work together to improve access to justice and safety for Aboriginal people, families and Communities.

Remote Communities should not receive a lesser standard of justice because of where they live.

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