Have to agree, I'd appear no matter what but each to their own.
Found this, mentions
http://www.magistratescourt.vic.gov.au/sites/default/files/Default/witness%2Bsummons%2Bbrochure.pdf
Is it anything like jury duty? For jury duty, you get a cheque for attending, then your employer should make up the difference so you're not out of pocket at all.