After many years as an English, language and social studies teacher, Catherine was ready to take her career in a new direction. She began volunteering with Court Network at Wyndham Law Courts in 2025, bringing with her the communication skills, empathy, and experience developed throughout her teaching career. Her time as a Networker introduced her to the justice system and helped create a pathway from the classroom into court employment. See how volunteering supported Catherine’s transition from teacher to Trainee Court Registrar.
What skills did you learn or develop during your time as a Networker?
I learned a great deal about court processes, support services, approaching distressed court users and family violence proceedings. I learned to never make assumptions about court users and always keep an open mind. And knowing when to pull back and step into someone’s space when they are having the worst day of their lives is key to the role.
Do you have any memorable or significant moments that stand out from your time as a Networker?
- Helping a woman complete an intervention order two days after the birth of her child.
- Listening to magistrates using therapeutic justice to help young offenders change their behaviours and avoid prison.
- In my third shift, I automatically assumed that a woman living with a significant disability was a family violence applicant rather than a respondent. Assumptions are highly problematic and are best set aside when helping court users.
What is your current position within the courts?
I’m a Trainee Court Registrar at Court Services.
What made you want to transition into this role?
I spent a long time as an English, language and social studies educator and was ready for a career change. The judiciary is the third arm of precious, democratic government. It is the conscience of our democracy. It’s a privilege to work in this space.
Do you feel that your experience as a Networker has helped you in this role?
Absolutely! It gave me court experience, insight into court processes and a real window into the challenges and difficulties court users face. I keep a look out for the Networkers around the Melbourne Magistrates’ Court. The work they do is invaluable.
