In partnership with Kane Constructions as Kane Nicholson Joint Venture (KNJV), Bendigo Law Courts is the first regional specialist court facility in Victoria. Built over five levels, the 10,800m2 building has nine courtrooms, two hearing rooms, two mediation suites, remote witness facilities, safe waiting facilities, dedicated jury areas, and meeting rooms for support agencies and client services.
The primary structure comprises a concrete structure, with the roof and façade largely incorporating a standing seam copper façade and roof system with glazing. A key feature is the perforated copper façade screen incorporating an artwork from a local Indigenous artist resembling ‘Bunjil’ the wedge-tailed eagle.
The basement level is constructed with in situ perimeter piles, capping beams and land anchors, with shotcrete walls forming the structure. A wet basement by design, the waterproofing system ensures water levels are controlled at all times and excess is pumped or drained.
The building has been designed in consultation with legal practitioners, court users, local community service agencies, the City of Greater Bendigo, and in partnership with the Dja Dja Wurrung Clans Aboriginal Corporation, and Court Services Victoria. Initially a 5 star Green Star design, the building was upgraded to 6 star Green Star during construction at the request of the client. This is the third highly successful venture Nicholson Construction has delivered as KNJV.
Ninety percent of the building’s surfaces and materials have been locally sourced, made from a brick base with upper levels clad in copper. A suspended post-tension concrete slab sits above the spacious foyer, with generous waiting areas on each floor offering views across the Bendigo skyline. Local Dja Dja Wurrung culture is embedded in the building, including a four-storey representation of Bunjil the eagle, enveloping the corner facade of Hargreaves and Mundy Streets.
