“The Supreme Court has long travelled to country areas in NSW, including Orange, but this will be the first time the state’s highest court has come to the Central West,” said Mr Speakman.

Acting Chief Justice Margaret Beazley AO, Justice Julie Ward and Justice Fabian Gleeson will preside over the one-day hearing.

Mr Clarke, who addressed a ceremony prior to the hearing, said the occasion would strengthen the city’s reputation as a hub for regional justice.

“Orange has been hosting court hearings since 1849 and one of its first public buildings was a courthouse,” Mr Clarke said.

VIDEO: Parliamentary secretary for Justice David Clarke and barrister Bill Walsh speaking:

“Its ties to the law have remained strong and the Court of Appeal sitting will be a significant milestone for the city, which is one of the fastest growing areas in regional NSW.”

In addition to the historic Court of Appeal sitting, the Supreme Court has recently held hearings in Orange.

“Conducting hearings in regional areas improves access to justice and means witnesses, victims of crime and police don’t have to travel to Sydney to testify, which saves them time, money and stress,” Mr Speakman said.

The Court of Appeal is the final court of appeal for civil matters in NSW. It hears appeals from single judges of the Supreme Court and from other NSW courts and tribunals.