When Canberra was established in 1911, it didn't have its own courthouse.
Prior to 1930, Territorians were forced to travel to Queanbeyan, Goulburn or Cooma to have their legal matters heard. In November 1930, the ACT Magistrate's Court was opened in Acton House, although it moved around until 8th May 1963 when it relocated to its current premises, Knowles Place, Civic.
Similarly, the ACT Supreme Court had previously been located in Acton House when it was established in 1934. The first two matters heard by the court involved actions for the restitution of conjugal rights, wherein the wife was ordered to return to her husband within 21 days. The first eleven cases heard all concerned matrimonial disputes.
Today, the Supreme Court exercises jurisdiction in corporations law, adoptions, probate and other matters including admiralty and now has three resident judges, 17 additional judges and a Master who has broad jurisdiction in personal injury matters, a far cry from the single judge it had in 1934.
If you're not there on official business, there is a very pretty sculpture called Gravity Circle in the forecourt between the two courts and a number of benches where you can sit and enjoy your lunch in a nice leafy environment.
The cache is available 24/7, although stealth is advised due to the often very busy environment, so try not to get "caught in the act" of retrieving the cache. BYO Pen.
