Overview

• The complex was evacuated on June 17 after a burst water main on Castlereagh Street flooded the basement plant room and cut power to IT and electrical systems.
• A court spokesman confirmed repairs will keep the Downing Centre shut for at least four weeks as contractors restore utilities and clear water damage.
• Dozens of hearings have been moved to John Maddison Tower and Darlinghurst Court, including the sexual assault trial of Kiama MP Gareth Ward.
• The Law Society of NSW warned that some part-heard trials, particularly those involving in-custody defendants, may be aborted if they cannot be resumed promptly.
• The Department of Communities and Justice is working with NSW Police and legal bodies to prioritise high-severity cases during the closure.