Australian courts remain operational during the outbreak of the 2019 novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19), however, significant changes have been introduced in light of COVID-19 restrictions. The courts are focussed on ensuring the safety of litigants, practitioners, judges and court staff, whilst attempting to minimise interference with the due administration of justice. The courts also remain conscious of the important principle of "open justice".

In recent weeks we have dealt with changed court operations at all levels of the courts including trial, appeal, interlocutory and case management hearings across multiple jurisdictions.

This article outlines some of the new procedures and arrangements the courts have put in place for the conduct of matters during COVID-19.