I was deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Graeme Neate AM, President of the ACT Civil and Administrative Tribunal, over the weekend.
Graeme was an exceptional lawyer and human being.
He embarked on his legal career in Canberra where he gained a Bachelor of Arts in political science and sociology from the Australian National University in 1977, followed by a Bachelor of Laws (Hons) in 1979. And he ended his legal career in Canberra, where he served our community as President of the ACT Civil and Administrative Tribunal since January 2017.
Graeme will be particularly remembered for his 17 years of service to the National Native Title Tribunal, including 14 years as its President.
Graeme wrote extensively on Aboriginal land rights, native title and cultural heritage issues. He also helped to establish the Indigenous Law Program and the Indigenous Law Centre (Research and Study facilities), at the University of New South Wales. His passion for indigenous land rights dated back to 1980, when he began working with Justice John Toohey, then the inaugural Aboriginal Land Commissioner.
In 2015, Graeme was appointed a Member (AM) of the Order of Australia in the Queen’s Birthday Honours, for his significant service to the law as a leading contributor to Indigenous land rights, and to legal education.
Graeme was curious, kind, compassionate and generous with his time. He was a mentor to many and a colleague and friend to many more.
We are deeply thankful for Graeme’ commitment to public service and his contributions to our community and beyond. It’s been a privilege to work with Graeme in recent years and he leaves a significant professional legacy.
Graeme died with his wife Jennifer, son Lachlan and daughter Lara by his side. On behalf of the ACT Government, I send deepest condolences to them and Graeme’s family at this difficult time.
