It is an honour to be able to provide my first update to you as your President for the 2023/2024 term.

Council

I acknowledge the retiring Council member, Amber Cohen’s work and contribution to Council.

I want to congratulate Will Justo and Amelia Higgs on their election to the role of Vice President and Treasurer.  I want to congratulate the executive members, Imogen Cook, Callum Purcell, Luke Taylor, and Amanda Thompson. I would like to welcome our newest member of Council, Olivia Jenkins.

I look forward to working with members of the Executive and Council over the next year.

Goals

I identified in the media release what will be my main priorities will be in my term as President. These are important issues for the profession, and many are issues that cannot be resolved within my term.  Attraction and retention will be a continued theme. A theme that my predecessor, Ms Thompson, dedicated a significant amount of time to over the last year.

My objective is to be a President who is very present and proactive and not reactive.  I therefore invite you to contact me at any time during the year in relation to issues or concerns, at Bishops or via the Law Society.

Work

On Wednesday, 18 October, I was able to speak with Andre Leslie on ABC North Radio about my goals and priorities for the year.

On Friday 20 October, I had the pleasure of speaking with the newly appointed Attorney-General Guy Barnett.

I am looking forward to having a positive working relationship with the newly appointed Attorney-General.

On Friday 20 October, I had some initial discussions with Ms Emma White, the Director of the Tasmanian Legal Practice Course about ways of attracting graduates to work in Launceston.

Charity

My nominated charity will be St Vincent de Paul. There are two reasons. St Vincent de Paul, or as I often refer to as “Vinnies”, assists those experiencing poverty and inequality. The pressure of increased costs of living has had an impact on many Tasmanians.  Housing affordability, the cost of power, food, petrol are issues that do not discriminate.  I am very fortunate as when I was growing up and as an adult, I did not have to worry about such issues.  I am very privileged in that I have a safe and warm home to return to each day, I have adequate food and clothing. I am also still able to access luxury items. I will be participating in the 2024 Vinnies CEO Sleepout.  Second, my father has been a volunteer and active supporter of this organisation for over 50 years.  I am very proud of the work he has undertaken and look forward to making this contribution.

JULIA HIGGINS
President