While the state took cases elsewhere, Sydney Downing Centre took advantage of the reduced activity to implement high-tech security upgrades, which includes screening, safety signage and relocation of the court’s most-used features. 

Attorney-General Mark Speakman welcomed the update: “Hundreds of people use the Downing Centre [everyday], which is why reducing the bottlenecks at scanners during peak hours will make it easier and faster to enter while improving safety.” 

Among the upgrades is screening at the entrance to the courthouse, which includes a 3D body scanner. Mr Speakman said the feature would dramatically improve a sheriff officer’s ability to detect and seize dangerous items that court users may bring. 

The new aviation-standard X-ray machines have been rated “best in the industry” and will “significantly boost security capabilities”. It comes with a dedicated screening unit for legal practitioners and court staff to fast-track their entry into the complex. 

The Justice of the Peace desk has been relocated closer to the entrance, right before the security, so people needing documents certified will avoid a queue. 

New electronic safety signage has also been installed along with an anti-pass exit lane which stops people bypassing scanners to return to the courthouse. 

“Carrying out the upgrade during periods of reduced in-person court sittings due to the pandemic has enabled work to be completed quickly,” Mr Speakman said, adding that the upgrade started in May as part of the Department of Community and Justice 2019 /20 capital program which has funded improvements to justice facilities. 

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Voting is now open for The Lawyers Weekly Award, to be presented to one individual for making substantial, consequential achievements in advancing the Australian legal profession since 2000. Finalists for this prestigious award have been confirmed as those listed below. To vote for your preferred winner, click here. 

Julian Burnside AO QC (barrister)

Bernard Collaery (barrister, former Attorney-General of the ACT)

Kate Eastman SC (barrister and co-founder, Australian Lawyers for Human Rights)

The Honourable Robert French AC (former chief justice, High Court of Australia)

Sue Kench (global chief executive, King & Wood Mallesons)

The Honourable Chief Justice Susan Kiefel AC (chief justice, High Court of Australia)

The Honourable Michael Kirby AC CMG (former justice, High Court of Australia)

Jane Needham SC (barrister and former president, NSW Bar Association)

Geoffrey Robertson AO QC (barrister)

Professor Gillian Triggs (assistant secretary-general, United Nations and former president, Australian Human Rights Commission)