Victorian Government Reporting Service (VGRS)
How are transcripts created?
The VGRS uses a range of methods to record and transcribe proceedings.
Court reporter
The court reporter uses a computerised stenograph machine to transcribe the spoken word in the courtroom into machine shorthand, which is simultaneously translated into English text.
Court transcription officer
The Court Transcription Officer (CTO) types the transcript from digital recordings of court proceedings.
Recorder operator
The Recorder Operator tracks and logs court proceedings from the VGRS’ Melbourne office using instantaneous audio and video feed through fibre optic cable and for some country proceedings, by audio feed via the telephone line.
What types of transcript does VGRS provide?
Real time reporting
Transcript prepared by a team of two Court Reporters using computerised stenographic machines that translate shorthand into transcript. An unedited transcript is available to users online in the courtroom within 5 seconds of the words being spoken. Edited transcript is delivered at lunchtime and at the end of the day.
Running transcript
Transcript is prepared and delivered electronically to parties within two hours of the court adjourning at lunch and at the end of the day.
Customised transcript
Transcription of court proceedings that is transcribed according to various delivery timelines.
Audio and visual recordings
Supreme and County Court proceedings are digitally relayed to the VGRS’ Melbourne office and recorded for the preparation of transcript. This removes the need for a recorder operator to be in court.
Local recordings
Committal proceedings in the Magistrates' Court and some Coroners Court inquests are recorded by the clerk in the courtroom, who also keeps a record of events (log notes) during the proceedings, such as a change of witness. All recordings and logs notes are forwarded to the VGRS for transcription.
History of VGRS
Originally established as the Government Shorthand Writers Office in 1854, the Victorian Government Reporting Service (VGRS) has a proud history of providing high quality recording and transcription services to Victoria's courts and tribunals. Throughout this time, the VGRS has evolved and responded to change and innovation in technologies, workers rights, occupational health and safety and the legal system.
