Meet Janet—a Sunshine Coast PACT volunteer
One person can make a difference
It's Queensland Law Week—and this year we're recognising the people powering justice across our state.
One of those is Janet Benstead, one of more than 100 volunteers who support child victims and witnesses through the Queensland court process with PACT (Protect All Children Today).
When Janet retired early from a long career in healthcare, she wasn't quite sure what came next. After decades as a radiographer and then a sonographer, specialising in obstetrics and gynaecology in busy hospital environments, she knew she wanted to keep contributing. She just wasn't sure how.
‘I was looking for a meaningful way of giving back to the community,’ Janet says. ‘I reflected on my extended family's interactions with the legal system, and I saw how one adult can empower and support a child or adult going through a tough time. One person can make a difference.’
When she came across the opportunity to volunteer with PACT, it felt like the right fit.
People powering justice
PACT volunteers walk alongside victims and witnesses of all ages, and their families, as they navigate the court process—providing a calm, consistent presence at what can be one of the most difficult times in a young person's life.
For Janet, the work is grounded in a simple idea: showing up, without an agenda.
‘On a personal level, I'm fortunate enough to be part of someone's journey. I'm there for them. I don't have an agenda. I try to educate, empower, support, and help them to give their best evidence in court.’
Every case looks different. So does every day.
‘I can be making cups of tea one day, and the next day sitting on the floor playing endless games of UNO or colouring in,’ she says. ‘I've mastered the art of small talk and I'm also happy to sit quietly in silence.’
Her court-day backpack is always packed and ready: long-life milk, tea bags, tissues, a few fidget toys, a pack of cards.
A region as varied as the work
Being based on the Sunshine Coast means Janet's volunteering takes her across a wide stretch of Queensland.
‘I've leapt onto a yacht with my computer bag flung over one shoulder, driven out to farms, and everything in between to visit clients and get to know a young person and their family,’ she says. ‘Every case, every person, every family is unique.’
Over two and a half years, Janet has also taken on mentoring—supporting new volunteers and acting as a ‘buddy’ to help local volunteers learn how the court system operates in their region.
The privilege of being there
For Janet, the reward is in the moments that come at the end.
‘There is no feeling like finishing a pre-record or trial and seeing the relief on the face of the people you have supported. Court has many challenges for everybody—but being able to be there for somebody at an incredibly vulnerable time is a privilege.’
About PACT
PACT is a Queensland not-for-profit organisation supporting victims and witnesses of all ages, and their families, through the court process. PACT volunteers help vulnerable victims and witnesses better understand and navigate the justice system while providing compassionate, trauma-informed support and a calm, consistent presence throughout the journey.