Court programs
Queensland Courts delivers various programs and diversionary initiatives that aim to change behaviours and treat the influences of offending behaviour.
These programs and initiatives address the underlying causes of offending behaviour by linking defendants with vital health, cultural and social services.
Below you’ll find details about each program, including how it works and who is eligible.
Community Justice Group Program
A program supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander victims and offenders in the criminal justice system
Court Link
A bail-based program helping people get the support and treatment they need to address the underlying causes of offending
Drug and Alcohol Diversion Program
A program addressing defendants’ drug and alcohol use in its early stages and reducing drug and alcohol related offending
Remote Justices of the Peace Program
Remote JP courts improve access to the criminal justice system for remote communities, and empower and enable Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community members, Elders and Respected Persons to play positive roles in the criminal justice system
Specialist Domestic and Family Violence Courts
Specialist Domestic and Family Violence (DFV) courts aim to improve service delivery to those affected by domestic and family violence through a multi-disciplinary and collaborative model.
Youth Court (Townsville)
The Townsville Youth Court is a Childrens Court list for young people aged between 10 to 17 who are repeat offenders and considered to be at a high risk of re-offending. A dedicated magistrate hears all matters and proceedings involving young people involved in Youth Court which enables the magistrate to work directly with the young person and monitor their engagement with intervention programs and services.
The Townsville Community Justice Group (known as First Nations Court Support) plays an important support role in Youth Court. Elders or Respected Persons are present in the court and at the youth detention centre to provide support to young people and their families and to provide cultural reports to the magistrate.
An evaluation of the Youth Court was completed in 2023.