Backlog as drug trials up 62%

SERIOUS drug cases in Tasmania rose by 62 per cent in one year, contributing to a growing backlog in the state’s courts.

An estimates committee hearing at State Parliament has heard new drug cases in the Supreme Court increased from 58 to 94 in 2016-17, with the overall number of cases growing by 14 per cent from 449 to 512.

That number had increased to 523 by May this financial year, with a projection of 570 by the end of the year, an 11 per cent increase.

The backlog in criminal cases on the books to March 31 had increased from 465 in 2017 to 495 this year.

Attorney-General Elise Archer said many factors had contributed, despite the employment of five extra parttime judges.

They included fewer lawyers operating in the criminal court, more legal argument over witnesses and evidence, and the greater use of technology.

The hearing heard more cases were expected with 125 new police officers to be introduced by the Hodgman Government.

“There is no one cause of a backlog,” Ms Archer said.

“There are longer and more complex criminal trials.”

The number of Magistrates Court cases involving an element of family violence had increased from 3068 in 2016-17 to 3140 to date in 2017-18.

Ms Archer said greater awareness of the issue led to more reporting.

The figures came as the Hodgman Government released more details of its $70 million Southern Remand Centre, to be built at the Risdon Prison Complex.

The new facility will house 140 remandees, which make up 31 per cent of the prison population, separately to convicted prisoners, Ms Archer said.

The centre will be built in two stages, with two accommodation units to be built during this term of government.

A second stage will upgrade health and visitor facilities.

The Liberals have also promised $150 million for stage one of a new Northern Prison with up to 140 beds, expected to begin construction next year.