Murri Court has been reinstated in Mackay with the official launch taking place last Friday.

“Statewide Murri Court co-ordinator Renee Kyle said the court would convene fortnightly for youth defendants.”

“Mackay elder Veronica Ah-Wang was one of seven elders inducted into Murri Court at the ceremony.”

“A lot more of our Indigenous kids get into trouble, we just want to be there to help them and put them on the right track,” she said.

View Daily Mecury Article:
http://www.dailymercury.com.au/…/elders-to-help-ou…/3038907/

Murri Court aims to address the over-representation of our mob in the criminal justice system. It focuses on rehabilitation through intervention and diversion, engages community and builds trust between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and the justice system.

Many of the ATSILS team were present at the re-launch of the Murri Court in Brisbane this afternoon. It was great atmosphere and held in the spirit of celebration and mutual respect. The ATSILS team mixed with many familiar faces and it was great to share the experience with elders and other dignitaries from government, community and across the legal fraternity.

Murri Court is an important aspect in creating a more culturally responsive justice system and provides magistrates with the opportunity to use diversionary programs to enhance the rehabilitation of offenders. Justice alternatives such as Murri Court that engage local community are critical in addressing the over-representation of our people in the criminal justice system and we welcome its formal re-introduction across the state.