Recording of Evidence Regulation 2018

What This Law Does

This Queensland regulation sets out the rules for how people can get copies of court recordings and transcripts (written versions of what was said in court) from legal proceedings.

Who Can Get Copies?

Anyone can request a copy of a court transcript or audio recording, but they generally have to pay a fee. The fee goes to a private transcription company (called a "recorder") who produces the written version.

Who Gets Copies for Free or at a Discount?

Several groups of people are entitled to free or reduced-cost copies:

• Crime victims: If you were the victim of a serious crime (like assault or sexual offence) heard in the Supreme or District Court, you get one free copy. If the victim is a child or has died, their parents, children, spouse or siblings can get a free copy instead.
• Defendants: If you were charged with a serious crime in the Supreme or District Court, you get one free copy of the transcript.
• People in financial hardship: If you're a party to a legal case but can't afford the cost, you can apply to have the fee waived (cancelled). You'll need to show evidence like bank statements or a letter from Legal Aid.
• Industrial proceedings: The industrial registry and parties to workplace disputes get one free copy each.
• Coroner's inquests involving a death: Close family members of someone who died can get a free copy of the inquest transcript or recording.