News & Events

On Monday, along with many of you, I attended a ceremonial sitting of the Federal Court of Australia to welcome the appointment of Chief Justice Mortimer. The Victorian Bar was represented by Vice President Elizabeth Bennett S.C. who spoke of the Chief Justice’s many achievements as a member of our Bar and of her judicial acumen in marrying the dignity, seriousness, and importance of the work of the Court with empathy and mutual respect for all who come before it. Her Honour’s dedication to community, justice and legal issues concerning our First Nations people was recognised by all speakers. In response, the Chief Justice noted the presence in Court of representatives of the Cape York Land Council, the Gur A Baradharaw Kod Sea and Land Council, the Kimberley Land Council, the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung Cultural Heritage Aboriginal Corporation and the Boonwurrung Land and Sea Council. She also acknowledged the presence on the bench of the Hon. Michael Black AC KC, who as Chief Justice was inspired to have the words of the Constitution written on the windows of the Court. I know I sound parochial, but it is pleasing to once again have a member of our Bar at the head of our national Court.

On Wednesday, Amanda Utt and I met with Louise Glanville (CEO) and Julia Munster (Chief Counsel) from Victoria Legal Aid to discuss issues of mutual interest. Our two organisations enjoy a very good working relationship and we have agreed to meet regularly for the balance of the year. It is very useful to have such direct and open lines of communication with one of our most important external stakeholders. I would like to thank Louise and Julia for taking the time to meet with us.