Courtroom Technology

Audio Visual Link (AVL)

Audio-Visual Link (AVL) is a form of video conferencing using cameras and television screens, that allows two-way communication to a remote location. AVL in the Local Court is primarily used to conduct bail hearings for defendants, however, is also used to take evidence from witnesses not able to attend the location.

Remote Witness Facilities

Remote Witness Facilities (RWF) uses a form of Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) to allow witnesses to give evidence from a location outside the Courtroom. The witness can see, hear and participate in the Court proceedings, but does not sit in the Courtroom. The use of RWF can assist victims of crime and vulnerable persons feel safer when giving evidence as they are not in the Courtroom with the offender. Remote witness facilities allow vulnerable witnesses, such as children or victims of sexual assault and/or domestic and family violence, to give evidence from a room that is separate from the Courtroom.

Anyone who has concerns about giving evidence in a courtroom should speak to the prosecutor or their lawyer about making a request to use remote witness facilities.

Courtroom Technology and Electronic Evidence

In most courtrooms, there will be equipment available for evidence playback. It is the responsibility of the parties to ensure that their electronic evidence is compatible with the courtroom playback equipment. Parties should contact the Court Registry if they wish to test the electronic evidence prior to the day of Court.

Hearing loops

Most courtrooms have hearing loop technology to assist people who are deaf or have a hearing impairment. See Support Services for People with a Disbility page for more information.