The Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia (Division 1) and (Division 2) ('the Courts') are thrilled to welcome Court Dog 'Leo', a new facility dog, to the Brisbane registry, as part of the Courts' National Court Dog Program.
An official 'swearing-in' ceremony will be held on Monday 13 October 2025 at the Brisbane registry.
A video will be played at the swearing in ceremony to introduce Leo and celebrate the expansion of the National Court Dog Program to Brisbane, which now joins Melbourne, Sydney, Parramatta and Newcastle.
Leo and his handler were expertly trained and matched to the Courts by Guide Dogs Australia and proudly funded by the Family Law Practitioners Association (FLPA) of Queensland and the Queensland Law Society (QLS).
The Chief Justice of the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia, the Honourable William Alstergren AO, said the National Court Dog Program has made real and significant improvements to the experiences of many litigants since it commenced in Melbourne and Hobart three years ago.
"We are extremely grateful to FLPA, QLS, and the local profession for supporting the introduction of Leo in Brisbane. Leo's presence will greatly assist children and vulnerable litigants to feel safer and calmer when at court."
Assistance animals are widely acknowledged as having positive therapeutic benefits for people in a variety of facilities. In the justice setting, Court Dogs are increasingly being utilised as a trauma-informed support for vulnerable litigants, witnesses and children, by reducing the stress of engaging with court processes.
Research indicates Court Dogs help reduce the effects of cortisol, the stress hormone that increases a human's heart rate and blood pressure. Court Dogs also increase oxytocin, which reduces anxiety and improves a person's clarity of thought and sense of calm.
Guide Dogs QLD General Manager of Impact, Greg Elphinston, said "We're proud one of our exceptionally talented dogs will be helping children at a time of vulnerability, putting a positive tint on lifelong memories and improving outcomes for families."
Family Law Practitioners Association President, Ms Shannon Daykin, said FLPA is proud to help bring this outstanding Program to the Brisbane registry.
"The National Court Dog Program has made significant impact to help adults and children feel more supported, comfortable and less anxious when attending court in other States. FLPA is honoured to have been asked to assist to make this Program a reality in Brisbane. We're excited to meet Leo and welcome him to the Court," Ms Daykin added.
Queensland Law Society President, Genevieve Dee said that the QLS is incredibly proud to be supporting the National Court Dog Program.
"Dogs are known as humans' best friends, providing much needed companionship and positive emotional support. Courts can be particularly stressful places for families and children. We know that Leo will provide much needed comfort and support to our most vulnerable court users, and we look forward to welcoming him to the Courts."
