Appointment of judges to FCFCOA

The Law Council of Australia commends the Attorney-General, Senator the Hon Michaelia Cash for prioritising appointments to and resourcing of the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia (FCFCOA).

“Congratulations to Peter Campton SC and Suzanne Christie SC on their appointment as Justices of Division 1; and Vivien Carty, Julie Kearney, Caroline Jenkins, Samantha Murdoch, John McGinn, and Sophie Given on their appointments as Judges of Division 2 of the Federal Circuit and Family Court,” Law Council of Australia President, Dr Jacoba Brasch QC said.

“On behalf of the profession, I also congratulate, Judge Michael Jarrett, Judge Grant Riethmuller, and Judge Penelope Kari and who have been appointed as Justices in Division 1 of the FCFCOA after having served the community as Judges of Division 2.”

Combined, these appointments bring new Judges to the Newcastle, Adelaide, Parramatta, Brisbane, and Sydney Registries of the FCFCOA.

“Over the past 18 months, we have been reminded how vital a strong, effective and properly resourced judicial system is.”

“The Law Council has long called for the timely replacement of retiring judicial officers and acknowledges the Attorney-General for prioritising these appointments and on the selection of such highly qualified members of the profession.”

“Today’s appointments show the Commonwealth’s recognition of the importance of proper resourcing of the courts. For example, with the appointment of Ms Carty and Ms Kearney, the Newcastle Registry now has the highest number of judges in its history, which is very welcome,” Dr Brasch said.

The Law Council looks forward to the contribution each Judge will make to the judiciary, to upholding the administration of justice and to serving the Australian community.

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