Everything media outlets need to know when reporting about the Court.
Media Information
This page contains information to assist journalists covering the work of the Children's Court of Victoria.
Restrictions on Reporting Children's Court Matters
Section 523 of the Children, Youth and Families Act 2005 provides that all Children's Court proceedings are to be conducted in open court unless the court decides otherwise.
The media can cover Children's Court cases provided the participants are not identified or identifiable. Section 534 of the Children, Youth and Families Act makes it an offence, except in very limited circumstances, to publish any picture or account of proceedings that would lead to the identification of a child or any other person involved in the case, including a witness, or the particular venue of the Children's Court in which the proceeding was heard. This section also prohibits the publication, except in special circumstances, of any material which is likely to identify a child as being the subject of a Children's Court order. These restrictions also apply to proceedings in any other court arising out of proceedings in the Children's Court.
Access to Documents in the Criminal Division of the Children's Court
To apply for access to documents, complete this form: Application for Access form.
Contact
Media enquiries: media@childrenscourt.vic.gov.au
Related documents
Use of electronic devices policy
Restriction on publication of proceedings - Section 534 of the Children, Youth and Families Act 2005