Heritage-listed Kyneton Courthouse is the earliest surviving courthouse in Victoria and still integral to the local area. It is not only deeply embedded in the State’s history but recent renovations have ensured that it is more accessible and secure in its running as a Magistrates’ Court.

The original building was completed in 1857 and marked the separation of Victoria from New South Wales. It was built in the Free Classical Style and reflected the earliest days of the colony of Victoria. The use of bluestone, Georgia style sash windows and solid cedar doors made it unique. The Courthouse had various renovations in the early years which kept to the original style but the last in 1900, unfortunately, did not and detracted from the overall look. The Courthouse’s biggest claim to fame is that Ned Kelly appeared there as a teenager in the mid-1870s for robbery underarms.

The Courthouse has been in use since its establishment and it still plays a vital part in local law proceedings. The Courthouse saw 2800 hearings in the 2016/17 period, 300 of which were related to family violence intervention. This was the catalyst for recent renovations this year and a $1.2 million safety upgrade. The building is now accessible to all patrons: there are ramps and amenities for people with a disability. There are also separate waiting spaces and interview rooms to ensure, in particular, the safety of victims of domestic violence.

The Courthouse is situated behind the Kyneton Town Hall just off the main street. If you are interested in viewing it and other historic buildings you may like to pick up a Kyneton Town Walks map from the Visitor Information Centre and tour the town.

For further information on the Kyneton Courthouse visit:

https://kyneton.org.au/attractions.html

https://www.premier.vic.gov.au/kyneton-law-court-re-opens-after-security-upgrade/

https://vhd.heritagecouncil.vic.gov.au/places/638/download-report