Late yesterday I was made aware of a breach of victims’ privacy by the Brisbane Magistrate Courts Registry.
First and foremost, my concern is for the families who I have been advised were notified of this error.
Four individuals from media outlets were granted access to a court file and the victims’ names were not redacted.
These individuals have been made aware of their obligations under the law not to publish information that may lead to the identification of victims.
I know these media outlets will not identify the victims, but this should simply not have occurred.
I am advised media outlets viewed the file but were not allowed to make copies or take photos.
Victims rightly deserve to know their personal information is safe.
I am deeply disturbed this occurred and have asked my Acting Director-General to conduct an immediate and thorough investigation.
Measures have been put in place to ensure it does not happen again.
I sincerely apologise to the families for any undue trauma this error by the Brisbane Magistrate Courts has caused.
If you are affected by this and need support, Victim Connect is a 24/7 service that supports people who have been impacted by a violent crime in Queensland. Victim Connect can be contacted by calling 1300 318 940.
