Data security incident - Frequently asked questions
These frequently asked questions (FAQs) have been developed in support of the data security incident impacting the Magistrates' Court of Victoria and the Children's Court of Victoria.
View our latest statement for more information: Thursday 30 July 2026
What has happened?
Court Services Victoria (CSV) is aware of a data security incident impacting the Magistrates’ Court of Victoria and the Children’s Court of Victoria.
The incident led to unauthorised access to some information used to link court participants to online hearings at the Magistrates’ Court of Victoria and the Children’s Court of Victoria between 2022 and 2026.
The information related to online hearings at some court locations including Bendigo, Castlemaine, Echuca, Kerang, Kyneton, Maryborough, Mildura, Ouyen, Robinvale and Swan Hill.
Has the incident been contained?
CSV immediately investigated and shut down the way the information was accessed, strengthened security and continues to monitor the system. All relevant authorities have been notified of the incident and are assisting with the investigation and response.
Our investigation and response remain ongoing, and we will provide updates as further information becomes available.
Operations are continuing as usual across the court system.
What data has been accessed?
Some of the information accessed was already on the public record, including:
- case titles and numbers
- hearing dates and times
- courtrooms, and,
- participant names.
Other information such as email addresses and/or a description of the person’s role in the matter (i.e. lawyer, court staff, observer) was also accessed.
The system from which this data comes from is separate from the Case Management System (CMS) used by the two courts and does not contain information about court proceedings from that system.
Have financial records or employee data been accessed or otherwise impacted?
No other court systems or records, including employee or financial data, were accessed.
How many people and matters are affected by the data security incident?
In many instances the data was incomplete, inaccurate and complex and CSV is unable to verify the number of people and matters impacted.
When did the data security incident occur?
The incident occurred in July 2026.
Have other jurisdictions been affected by the breach?
The breach affected information relating Magistrate’s Court of Victoria and the Children’s Court of Victoria matters.
No other Victorian jurisdictions are affected.
Is this the same system that was breached in 2024?
No. It is a completely different system to the 2024 incident.
Has the breach been reported to government security agencies?
All relevant authorities have been notified of the incident and are assisting with the investigation and response.
Who can I contact about my concerns?
If you were involved in a case in the Magistrates’ Court of Victoria and the Children’s Court of Victoria during the time frame and locations noted above and are concerned that you may be impacted, you can call (03) 9087 6116 between 9am and 5pm Monday to Friday.
What support is available for affected individuals?
For matters relating to the Magistrates’ Court or Children’s Court, a dedicated team has been set up in the Magistrates’ Court of Victoria Service Centre who are able to make referrals for support services.
I’m worried about my safety
If you are concerned about your safety or in immediate danger, please contact the police by calling (triple zero) 000.
You can also contact The Orange Door – a free service for people who are experiencing family violence or who need support with the care and wellbeing of children and young people https://www.orangedoor.vic.gov.au/contact-us
Alternatively, you can contact Safe Steps on 1800 015 188.
If you are a victim of crime and would like information about further supports available to you, you can also contact the Victims of Crime Helpline which is open 8am–11pm every day. Call 1800 819 817 or text 0427 767 891.
How can I make a complaint about how this incident was handled?
Please email privacy@courts.vic.gov.au if you wish to raise any concerns.
Will my upcoming court case be affected by this incident?
No. The affected system has been contained, and the breach will not affect future court matters.
This page was last updated: Thursday 30 July 2026 - 12:33pm