Court Network’s annual Networker Event brought staff and volunteers together to connect, learn and celebrate the extraordinary contribution Networkers make across court locations and jurisdictions. 

This year’s speakers offered valuable perspectives from across the justice system, reinforcing a united message: compassionate, practical support can make a profound difference for people navigating court. 

Insights from across the justice system 

Court can be daunting, particularly for people facing financial instability, mental illness, substance use, family violence or other forms of disadvantage. Her Honour Magistrate Luisa Bazzani highlighted the complexity of judicial decision-making, which requires balancing punishment, deterrence, rehabilitation, denunciation and community protection with each person’s circumstances. 

Her reflections were also a strong reminder that fairness begins with recognising unconscious bias and approaching every person with care and an open mind. 

This is where Networkers make such a meaningful difference. A clear explanation, a reassuring presence and a moment of human connection can make an unfamiliar court environment feel less overwhelming, especially for someone who is frightened, unprepared or without legal representation. 

That support sits alongside the work of many court professionals. Senior Constable Paul Johnson shared insights into the prosecution process, from arrest through to court hearings, and the challenge of supporting people under significant stress while meeting professional responsibilities. 

His practical message for Networkers was simple: build relationships with prosecutors and court staff. Being visible keeps Court Network front of mind when someone needs extra support, particularly in family violence matters. 

Eleanor Sim, Senior Registrar at Wyndham Law Courts, reinforced the value of working together. Brief morning check-ins between Registry staff, Networkers and service providers can clarify who is onsite, team capacity and referral pathways. That coordination matters when court users need help while waiting for hearings, using remote witness facilities or completing forms. 

Strong support also depends on looking after the people who provide it. Eleanor acknowledged the emotional demands of court work and the importance of wellbeing, professional boundaries and access to support services. When teams communicate clearly, understand each other’s roles and remain open to new approaches, court users benefit. 

Celebrating excellence  

The event concluded with the inaugural Carmel Benjamin Award for Excellence, recognising a Networker who demonstrates outstanding commitment to court users and embodies Court Network’s values. Congratulations to Marie from Ballarat Magistrates’ Court and the Phone Service, the award’s first recipient.

Networker Event 2026 in pictures

Photos by Tiffany Garvie.