The ACT Government has announced the appointment of Mr Jon White SC as a Resident Judge of the ACT Supreme Court, filling the vacancy created by Justice Louise Taylor’s appointment as Chief Magistrate of the ACT Magistrates Court.
Mr White brings decades of practice in criminal, appellate and public law, including his service as Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) for the ACT from 2008 to 2018 and extensive experience as lead counsel in complex matters before the ACT Supreme Court, ACT Court of Appeal and High Court of Australia.
“Jon White brings a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of the ACT justice system,” Attorney-General Tara Cheyne said.
“His distinguished career, including a decade of service as DPP, reflects a strong commitment to the rule of law and to serving the community.”
Mr White will commence in the role on 22 June 2026.
The Attorney-General also announced today that Magistrate Jane Campbell will be appointed as Acting Judge of the ACT Supreme Court’s Drug and Alcohol Sentencing List (DASL).
The DASL supports eligible offenders whose substance use has contributed to their offending, combining judicial supervision with treatment, rehabilitation and accountability.
Magistrate Campbell brings extensive judicial and legal experience to her role as Acting Judge, including her current role as a Magistrate of the ACT Magistrates Court, to which she was appointed in 2022, and previous leadership positions at Legal Aid ACT.
“Magistrate Campbell brings deep experience across criminal law, legal practice and judicial service, as well as a strong understanding of the complexities that can contribute offending behaviour,” the Attorney-General said.
These appointments will maintain the ACT Supreme Court’s capacity to deliver fair, timely and effective justice to the ACT community.
Quotes attributable to Mr Jon White SC:
“I am deeply honoured to be appointed a judge of the ACT Supreme Court. I was born and educated in Canberra and have practiced law here extensively. I’ll draw on my personal and professional experience in the ACT in performing my new role.”
Quotes attributable to The Honourable Chief Justice Lucy McCallum:
“Mr White is rightly regarded as a venerable leader of the ACT Criminal Bar. He brings to the Court a sharp intellect, unrivalled experience and a prodigious work ethic. His appointment is most welcome at this time.”
