In response to the evolving impact of the COVID-19 pandemic,
Queensland, Commonwealth Courts and Tribunals, and the High Court
have implemented a range of changes to court operations.
Supreme Court of Queensland
For civil matters, the Courts are attempting to minimise the
need for physical attendance in courtrooms by:
- allowing telephone or video link to make applications and call
witnesses wherever possible;
- hearing applications on the papers where that is feasible;
and
- minimising the number of people attending court for any given
matter (by encouraging non-essential persons, such as paralegals,
not to attend).
The Court are encouraging lawyers to resolve issues to the
greatest extent possible, to reduce the time for which any presence
in court is required; and to resolve matters wherever possible.
